Report: MINI Countryman Faces Possible U.S. Market Delay Until 2011

[Administrator]

MINI's upcoming Countryman crossover just can't catch a break. The launch of the vehicle has been delayed several times (the most recent being a push-back from the Frankfurt to Geneva auto shows), and now reports suggest the crossover might not debut in the U.S. until early 2011.

The well-connected folks at MotoringFile are reporting that while the vehicle is essentially completed, the folks at MINI (and its parent company, BMW) are skittish about launching the new vehicle in a less than favorable economic climate. While things do appear to be improving, the automaker is still contemplating a delay in the Countryman's launch.

The report isn't all bad news, however, as there's some new info about the car. It will be available as both a four-seater and as a five-seater with the choice of either a 1.6-liter gasoline engine or a 2.0-liter diesel BMW engine. On top of this, there's the exciting news that the John Cooper Works department will release two JCW models: the first being a standard JCW-type car, while the second will feature AWD, more power and a lighter curb weight.

Again, MINI doing a crossover seems like a bad idea, but we're sure if anyone can make the dull utility segment fun, it's MINI. Let's just hope we don't have to wait too much longer to find out.

More: Report: MINI Countryman Faces Possible U.S. Market Delay Until 2011 on AutoGuide.com

[Tigger, Eeyore & Roo]

It's interesting that no one has replied to this thread in 4 days. If this is a fair illustration of how much (or little) interest there is in this car (and how many people are waiting to place their order) might they just be preparing the ground to drop, sorry, "postpone" the entire project?

Tigger.

[Murker1991]

i think theyll be quite good when they finally arrive, i thought and still think the clubman is an ugly peice of **** that mini shouldnt of made but i still see plenty on the roads, this might actually suit a purpose

[M.O.S]

I'd rather have a bus pass than one of them. Its a monstrosity and I hope so much that BMW stop making it! I'd rather see more development go into the MINI E, new designer bin bags - anything! Its truly horrible!

[NeuroBeaker]

The strange thing is that it might actually be a reasonably good car. The problem is that it doesn't really fit in very well with the image of the MINI brand.

Expanding the brand is good for it's longevity, but perhaps a small SUV wasn't really the way to go.

All the best,
Andrew.

[rjodwyer]

ew!

[Benfrain]

I really like it. If they were due soon I'd probably order one!

[rozminiblack]

I will probably buy one , the JCW with the AWD would be awsome here in OZ with our crappy roads .

[RVW]

You just want to hope the clutch lasts more than 18000 miles If not be prepared for your wallet to be felt

[cbpete]

Hi Guys,

Just been looking at the pics of the Countryman, Not too keen on the Cooper S front the Cooper looks much better. I would have one and have the 4 wheel drive after the last few weeks with the snow. Mine as been no go in the white stuff, no doubt the 17" wheels had a lot to do with it, would never have them again. Will have a look at one when they arrive. But I give it the thumbs up.

Pete

[Stiggy]

I really like the look of it too!

My Cooper D may be up for replacement around September 2010 when this is likely to be available.

It's a shame we haven't heard any more about a rumoured DS high-powered diesel model. That would be great in a 4WD!

I think MINI is better off with something unusual like the Countryman than trying to compete with all the other small 5-door hatchbacks out there.