Next-gen Mini Countryman JCW spied

The next-generation Mini Countryman is expected to debut sometime in 2017. Ahead of its official debut in the international market, we have got fresh images of a camouflaged Mini Countryman, which from the looks of it is the top-spec John Cooper Works version. The JCW looks different from the regular Countryman with its aggressive styling cues, aerodynamics and larger wheels.

The new Mini Countryman is based on the UKL platform that underpins all the new Minis and entry-level BMW cars including the 1 Series and X1. The upcoming Countryman based on the new platform should have a similar lineup, as the existing one with both the diesel and petrol engine options and the JCW performance trim sitting right at the top of its price range.

The JCW is known to extract and deliver the best of performance numbers and the upcoming Mini Countryman JCW version will be no different. The Countryman JCW version will get a 2.0-litre TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder engine which generates 225bhp of power like in the hatchback and convertible version. With the performance upgrades over the standard version, the JCW Countryman should reach 240kmph, on the way hitting 100kmph in just about six seconds.

The Mini Countryman should have sport-tuned suspension, high-performance brakes and an Electronic Differential Lock Control system. The test mule, along with large air-intakes also shows honeycomb grille inserts,LED headlights, dual exhaust, aerodynamic side skirts and exclusive 17-inch alloy wheels. The next-generation Mini Countryman will be launched in India as CKD soon after its global debut. We are not sure if the JCW version will be part of their offering here, but we are certainly hoping for it.