Preparations have begun for one of the World's most arduous motor race - the Dakar Rally. Even more so for Team X-Raid, who is looking to defend their crown in the upcoming championship. This year, the team is working again on the proven recipe with the German automaker - the MINI ALL4 Racing car, which has demonstrated outstanding prowess in terms of reliability, pace, and endurance, claiming top spot at the 2012 Dakar. 

Last year's champs - Frenchmen Stephane Peterhansel and Michel Perin, have announced their commitment towards defending the title. The duo was among the five teams fielded by MINI/X-raid Team.

More notably, the collaboration lies beyond the competition cars - the MINI Countryman will be tasked to accompany the convoy for the entire rally distance of more than 8,000km. These cars will be equipped with the off-road design package to better handle the strenuous requirements posed by the race environment.

These components, such as the four-piece exterior kit, are part of the Original MINI Accessories range, and boasts functionality and premium quality worthy of the brand's name. All these play a vital role in seeing to the logistics needs for the team in acclaiming their success.

The range of accessories also includes other options which are created to bring out the rugged characteristics of the Countryman, such as 18-inch light alloys with run-flat tyres, mud flaps, auxiliary headlamps and all weather floor mats.