Photo: MINI
The Countryman is currently the biggest model in MINI’s line-up. Future plans might reveal an even bigger car but that’s just supposition at the moment. Until then, rumors claim that the upcoming US-bound Countryman could be diesel powered.
With a weight of up to 1,500 kg (3,300 lbs), the crossover is a bit heavy compared to its brethren. The added torque of a diesel would be most welcome in the US. The problem is, the market might not be ready for it.
As we all know, the American customer isn’t too keen on diesels and that’s why most cars offered in the states don’t have oil burners under the bonnet. However, with the new generation of B-family engines coming in from Germany, things might turn around, as they are said to be less noisy and more fuel efficient than their predecessors.
Since the Countryman was launched back in 2010, don’t expect the new one to come out sooner than 2017. That gives BMW and MINI enough time to prepared the ground for a diesel alternative in the US.
Designing the platform to hold an urea tank and SCR filter, both of them required in order to meet US emission standards could take a while but 3 years should be enough for it to happen.
Of course, the rest of the world is already enjoying diesel Countrymans. In Europe there are 5 different variations available, including the ALL4 SD and D models. Power outputs vary from 90 HP and 215 Nm (158 lb-ft) of torque on the One D to 143 HP and 305 Nm (225 lb-ft) of torque on the SD. In the US, prices start at $22,100 for the Cooper model or $199 a month.
As we all know, the American customer isn’t too keen on diesels and that’s why most cars offered in the states don’t have oil burners under the bonnet. However, with the new generation of B-family engines coming in from Germany, things might turn around, as they are said to be less noisy and more fuel efficient than their predecessors.
Since the Countryman was launched back in 2010, don’t expect the new one to come out sooner than 2017. That gives BMW and MINI enough time to prepared the ground for a diesel alternative in the US.
Designing the platform to hold an urea tank and SCR filter, both of them required in order to meet US emission standards could take a while but 3 years should be enough for it to happen.
Of course, the rest of the world is already enjoying diesel Countrymans. In Europe there are 5 different variations available, including the ALL4 SD and D models. Power outputs vary from 90 HP and 215 Nm (158 lb-ft) of torque on the One D to 143 HP and 305 Nm (225 lb-ft) of torque on the SD. In the US, prices start at $22,100 for the Cooper model or $199 a month.
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