MINI is putting the finishing touches on
the facelifted Countryman, but that hasn’t stopped them from introducing a new
Oxford Edition in the United States. Designed to give customers “even more
value, substance, style, safety and fun,” the Countryman Oxford Edition is
based on the Classic trim and features a panoramic glass sunroof, 18-inch alloy
wheels and a choice of six exterior colors including metallic paint.
The Oxford Edition also boasts leatherette
upholstery, heated front seats and automatic climate control system. Other
highlights include a 6.5-inch infotainment system, a rearview camera and rear
park distance control.
Since the Oxford Edition is based on the
entry-level Countryman, buyers will find a turbocharged 1.5-liter
three-cylinder engine that produces 134 hp and 219
Nm of torque. It is connected to a standard seven-speed dual-clutch
transmission which can be paired to an optional all-wheel drive system.
Pricing starts at US$ 25,900 and rises to US$ 27,900 with all-wheel drive. That’s pretty notable as the Countryman Classic
starts at US$ 28,900 and MINI says the Oxford Edition includes US$ 5,500 worth of
optional equipment at no additional cost.
Besides introducing the new Countryman special
edition, MINI announced all Oxford Editions will be available to everyone.
That’s a significant change as the value-focused models were previously limited
to college students and recent graduates as well as active duty and retired
members of the U.S. military. MINI says they made the change as “many customers
may be experiencing financial challenges due to impacts of the COVID-19
pandemic.” As a refresher, the Oxford Edition 2-door Hardtop starts at US$ 19,750
while the four-door model begins at US$ 20,750. Both have US$ 6,900 worth of optional
equipment for free.
