Mini Countryman leads 2024 imported small car market as sales accelerate

Mini’s most renowned SUV model, the Mini Countryman, has demonstrated its enduring appeal by achieving the highest sales in the imported small car market in 2024.

The Mini Countryman has sold 1,151 units in Korea this year from January to April. [BMW]

Mini’s most renowned SUV model, the Mini Countryman, has demonstrated its enduring appeal by achieving the highest sales in the imported small car market in 2024.

According to the Korea Automobile Importers & Distributors Association (KAIDA), the Mini Countryman has sold 1,151 units this year from January to April.

This figure represents the highest sales in both the premium small SUVs and the premium small cars categories.

Despite the upcoming release of the third-generation model for the Mini Countryman set for later this year, the current model has exhibited a 65 percent increase in sales compared to last year.

Industry experts speculate that the Mini Countryman’s excellent product appeal is the defining factor in its continued relevance.

The vehicle can accommodate up to five adults and offers a spacious load capacity. The back seats can move up to 13 centimeters (five inches) forward and backward, providing versatility. The trunk capacity can be expanded from a standard 450 liters (476 quarts) to a maximum of 1,390 liters.

The thorough integration of digital features in the vehicle is also notable. Depending on the trim, Apple CarPlay is offered as a standard feature with wireless connectivity.

Through the Mini Connected feature, users can conveniently utilize digital services via the Mini app, including Mini teleservices, intelligent emergency call and remote services.

The powerful performance delivered by the Mini TwinPower Turbo technology and the all-weather driving capabilities offered by the “ALL4” all-wheel-drive system are also key attractions of the Mini Countryman.

Depending on the model, the maximum output ranges from 136 to 192 horsepower, and the maximum torque ranges from 22.4 to 28.5 kilograms per meter.

To enhance efficiency, the ALL4 system can distribute up to 50 percent of the driving force to the rear wheels depending on driving conditions, ensuring optimal traction at all times.

The capabilities of the vehicle have been acknowledged in the global market.

According to Mini, a total of 83,392 Mini Countryman vehicles were sold worldwide last year. Compared to the 75,369 units sold in 2022, this represents an 11 percent increase.

This outcome is exceptional, given that the third-generation all-electric Mini Countryman was unveiled in September last year.

This year, the Mini Countryman is soaring with 13,468 units sold in the global market by the end of April. According to Mini, eight percent of these sales occurred in Korea.

The Korean market is known for its preference for mid to large-sized cars. Regardless, Mini has secured a spot within the top 10 imported car rankings among small-sized car brands.

Among the 26 countries where the Mini Countryman is being sold, Korea ranked second in sales from January to April in 2024.

Meanwhile, the announcement of the new all-electric Mini Countryman to the domestic market is heightening consumer expectations.

The new model will be the first of the lineup to be a full EV, with features such as a larger body, spacious interior, innovative digital experiences and advanced driver assistance systems.

Mini Korea is currently offering pre-orders for the new Mini Countryman through its Mini shop online.

BY JEONG SEONWU [jeong.seonwu@joongang.co.kr]