They share the same genes, but dance to different tunes. The already successful MINI Countryman is joined by the MINI Paceman in satisfying the desire of compact premium car customers for more driving fun. The move sees the brand pressing ahead with its commitment to adding new and innovative vehicle concepts to the MINI model range.
The key shared features of the two models are a vehicle length of over four metres and the option of ALL4 all-wheel drive. Added to which, the MINI Paceman injects a distinctive style defined by sporting flair and elegance, bringing fresh momentum to the brand's expansion into new target groups.
The MINI Countryman's qualities as a talented all-rounder have allowed it to blaze a successful trail through these parts. The Countryman spearheaded MINI's push into the compact segment and has wasted little time in earning bestseller status: sales hit 102,000 units worldwide in 2012 alone.
The MINI Countryman cuts a robust and versatile figure, highlighting its ability to push back the boundaries of urban mobility. Details like the distinctive contours of the large headlight units and the roof's striking 'helmet' form expand the MINI design language and leave an unmistakable mark on the compact segment.
On the other hand, the MINI Paceman likewise exudes power and presence, the gently downward-sloping coupe roofline, long doors, side windows tapering towards the rear and muscular tail helping to push the three-door newcomer's sporting elegance immediately to the forefront.
A lineup of four engines - two petrol units and a pair of diesels - with outputs ranging from 112bhp to 184bhp are available for the MINI Paceman, and a six-speed automatic gearbox can be ordered as an alternative to the standard six-speed manual. The MINI Countryman range comprises two additional entry-level variants: the MINI One Countryman (98bhp) and MINI One D Countryman (90bhp).
The MINI John Cooper Works Paceman and MINI John Cooper Works Countryman are powered by race-bred turbocharged engines, unleashing 218bhp onto the road through all four wheels thanks to the standard ALL4 system. When put the test, the JCW Paceman will finish the century sprint in 6.9 while the Countryman is a tad slower at 7.0 seconds.
