Living with MINI :: First Fill Up

My Countryman had its first fill up this past weekend after putting on 257 miles of fun filled driving for a week. It was a nice mix of city and freeway driving, with normal break-in period driving style. It also had to suffer some notorious LA traffic, especially on 405. Time to calculate the real world mileage figure to see how my MINI Cooper S Countryman has done! Read More >>

Living with MINI :: Blue in the Whites!

I was walking back to my Countryman after getting some essential groceries from Costco this past weekend.... and walla. There my Surf Blue Countryman with Black Top/Wheel was, sitting among a row of white SUV/CUV/Minivan (RX, Touareg, Caravan, Sorrento) and it's such a stand out!

Things I Like about MINI Countryman :: #002 Harman/Kardon Sound System

No 002 is the optional harman/kardon sound system I have on my Countryman as a part of Premium Package. While I am no audiophile, I can certainly appreciate the amazing sound quality of harman/kardon sound system. HK sound system features Digital Sound Processor and delivers concert-like experience by 10 speakers on eight channels with 400-watts of dynamic power (MINI USA sites states 480-watt, but HK site states 400-watt. Time to write a letter to MINI!) Read More >>

KISS edition MINI Countryman charity auction starts tomorrow

KISS edition MINI Countryman charity auction starts tomorrow, May 29 at 4 PM PST on eBay. The anticipation has been building up for the past month with lots of media exposure and MINI Rocks the Rivals event, and there seems to be rather high interest among die-hard KISS fans. These 4 KISS-inspired, custom painted and autographed MINI Countrymans are sure to become collector's item. So get your checkbook ready! Click here to ebay page

Read more for official release.

Things I Like about MINI Countryman :: #001 Solid, Thunk Sound of Door Shut!

There are so many things I like about my MINI Countryman. To see how many, I am going to start counting one by one in no particular order. Without further delay, let's get straight to the point. No 001. is its extremely solid sound of the door shut with nice 'thunk'/'clunk'.

One of the first interaction with any car is when you open/close the door. I value it as a very important moment because it can leave you a lasting impression for a long time. So there is nothing quite like the solid door shut that speaks for the solid quality of a car and how well the car is put together with high strength metal. MINI Countryman's door feels quite heavy and solidly manufactured, and comes with 2 stage opening hinge that's very useful and well adjusted. Then when you close the door, it shuts with extremely solid 'thunk' 'clunk' whichever you call it that is very satisfying and leaves a good impression. You can feel the car is well put together with high strength grade metal, not some cheap, thin tin can - you will be surprised how many cars actually have door shut with cheap 'tink'. It also applies to the rear hatch - I just love the feel and sound of the shut. It feels expensive and fits the premium feel MINI brand strives for. 

Living with MINI :: my MINI Countryman photoshoot on Pico Blvd

A few days ago, I did mini-photoshoot of my Surf Blue MINI Countryman after work on the streets of Pico Blvd in Rancho Park area. As my lens has some issues shooting wide angle, and limitation of moving traffic on the street, I had a lot of fun shooting details of MINI Countryman. The more I look and study the design of Countryman, the more I appreciate the well designed Countryman. Well balanced proportion, great stance, and subtle surface details such as flaring rear fender, light catcher right above the rocker, not to mention all the neat graphic details throughout make the Countryman such a joy to look at every single time. And yeah, Surf Blue color truly kicks ass! Check out the photo set on CountrymanMotoring's Flickr. 

Video :: What is MINI Connected?

One item that I did not want to miss out when I ordered the Countryman was MINI Connected. Vehicle infotainment and connectivity is a big thing these days and it seems almost all manufacturers either already have or will include them in their cars, and I certainly wanted to experience the best MINI has to offer. MINI Connected allows the driver to simply tuck an iPhone into the built-in USB port making it one with the MINI hi-res cockpit display. Also, you can monitor your driving efficiency and even update your Facebook and Twitter status on the move. On top of that, the GUI - graphic user interface - is very attractive and quite intuitive and iDrive like UI is actually easier to use than I thought. Controlling radio including Sirus Satellite radio and scrolling through my phone book without touching my iPhone via nicely laid out GUI is a breeze and there are various settings you can control, including DRL -daytime running lights - and door lock.

While I will post my own detailed review of MINI Connected in near future, see MINI Connected in a video and get an overview of all the current and up coming functionalities after the jump.

Report :: MINI Countryman inventory at So California dealers

Last time I checked the MINI Countryman inventory through out So. California MINI centers, the number was around 140 cars (April 9, 2011). Today I checked it and the current inventory of MINI Countryman models is at around 155 cars [unofficial]- including Cooper, Cooper S, Cooper S All4. Of those, 122 are Cooper S models including ALL4 which makes up less than 15% of total S models. That leaves only 33 cars to be non-turbo Cooper. Regular cooper model is certainly in short supply. With MINI Rocks the Rivals and its $1000 off promotion, I believe Countryman sales is quite strong and 155 car inventory is a good news for those who cannot wait and would like to utilize $1000 off certificate. I've also been noticing more fellow Countrymans on the road. I won't be surprised if the sales of Countryman goes over 2,000 mark in May for the first time.

Also, word around the net is many dealers are now out of 2011 production slots and all custom orders will have to wait till 2012 model year production begins. MY2012  production is scheduled to begin in September of this year - and as announced, there will be an option for rear bench seat. Making matters worth, parts for MINI Connected and Steptronic automatic transmission is currently in very short supply resulting in delay and cancellations.So.. chances are, if you are looking to buy a new Countryman, you will either have to choose from dealer stock or wait.

[ Source  :: AutoTrader.com ]

Delivery Day : Behind Story

I had planned this day in a few weeks advance. (The Delivery Day was Saturday, May 21, 2011.) Rather than simply going to the dealer and picking up the car, I wanted this day to be somewhat eventful throughout. First, getting to the dealership. Since I normally do not use much of public transportation in Los Angeles,  I took this as an opportunity to travel via one and enjoy the city from a different perspective. Second, point of interest. Downtown LA. Also coincidentally, RedBull Soapbox race was happening in DTLA that weekend. Sweetness! Contitune>

Living with MINI :: Day 3. Loving it so far.

I am loving the Countryman so far after little over 100 miles of motoring. It just looks fantastic: as a car design professional, I really do appreciate good designs), very fun to drive: handles well with minimal body roll and engine is quite punchy!, and great to live in: loving sporty black interior all around with piano black accent, MINI Connected is quite a kick ass feature! Downside? There are couple things.. but more on that next time.

DELIVERED. Welcome to our world!

4 Month since the decision for a new car. 3.5 Month since I first test drove MINI Countryman. 3 Month since my mind was set on MINI Countryman. 2 Month since I ordered my Countryman. 7 Weeks of obsessive tracking. 1 Trip to Port of Hueneme. 1 Unauthorized visit to dealer parking structure at late night. 2 Hour journey via public transportation.  

The joy of taking a delivery of my very own MINI Cooper S Countryman on a sunny, gorgeous day? PRICELESS.

The real journey begins now. Complete delivery day story up next (along with overdue Port of Hueneme visit story)

Today is D-Day!

Today is D-Day - Delivery Day! I must say, I am quite excited. While, the rumors of May 21"Dooms Day" might have frightened some, I had a great night of sleep without a worry in my mind and actually dreamed about the delivery of my Countryman! In last night's dream, I took out the car for a ride at the dealership and found out it was missing Anthracite Headliner and Premium Package. Now that was frightening! Any ways, everything should be arranged and ready to go at the dealership. We plan to get to the dealership by public transportation - Metro and some walking! While it will take little over 2 hours to get there, all of us can take a ride back home in a new Countryman rather than 2 separate cars. It is going to be an exciting, adventurous day!

Living with MINI :: Break-In Period

Every new car needs a proper Break-In Period. Moving parts need breaking-in time to adjust to each other to achieve the optimal service life and economy of operation of the car. Following is what MINI suggests from 2011 Countryman Owner's Manual. 

[VIDEO] MINI on Ice - Countryman ALL4

The advantage of having All Wheel Drive is the security of all weather traction in most cases - Countryman ALL4 will fit this bill as MINI's AWD isn't really performance oriented AWD. Occasionally, however, the added benefit of AWD can be had on the snow covered land! Past winter, MINI invited journalists to Italian Alps and let them loose with assortment of Countryman ALL4 (available in S or diesel Cooper & SD trim) including sweet looking Black/White Top JCW kit S Countryman ALL4. Video after the jump

[VIDEO] Wishlist :: MINI Cooper SD Countryman

144hp, 225lb! of torque, and 50 mpg in a MINI Countryman? Well... you can't have it unless you live in the rest of the world. Countryman with most powerful diesel engine yet for MINI (2.0 liter diesel)with a moniker "SD" is on my No. 1 wishlist for MINI. It is also fitted as standard with an extensive range of MINIMALISM technology - Brake Energy Regeneration, the Auto Start/Stop function, Shift Point Display, Electric Power Steering and the need-based operation of ancillary components help to produce outstanding fuel economy for this output class.While I like my gasoline engines, the pulling power you feel and the deeper and throaty sound from engine/exhaust is quite irresistible. Too bad MINI has no plans on bring it over to stateside. Short video after the jump

Tracking my MINI Countryman :: Finally!!! At my MINI dealer!!!!!!!!!

Surprise, surprise!!! Who says Monday's gotta suck, because it definitely ain't! This afternoon, I got an email from my MINI dealer telling me that my Surf Blue Countryman is here! I really wasn't expecting that as it just arrived at Port Hueneme last Thursday and would need a few days (2-4 business days) to pass through the VDC. Well.. it turns out, it went through the VDC at lightening speed and arrived at my dealership last Saturday, May 14 - just in 2 short days! I wasn't planning on taking a delivery until this weekend, but that didn't stop me from grabbing my camera and drive down to the dealership to take the first look at it late night. While I was stoked to see my Countryman for the first time, my unauthorized presence at the dealership parking structure during the 'off hours' must also have excited the security guard working graveyard shift on this otherwise ordinary night. I was warned to leave the premise immediately via loud speakers! ;)

Tracking my MINI Countryman :: At Vehicle Distribution Center

My Countryman is officially "At Vehicle Distribution Center". Normally, the customer ordered cars like mine gets "Priority Status" and go through the 'fast lane' rather than waiting in a long line of cars to be prepared and inspected. If you are on the west coast like me, most likely, it will be prepped at BMW owned Vehicle Processing Center at Port Hueneme, operated by Amports. It usually takes 2-4 days at VDC before it is ready to be delivered to MINI dealer.

Tracking my MINI Countryman :: Inside look at BMW Vehicle Distribution Center at Port Hueneme

Next up status for my Countryman is "At Vehicle Distribution Center" There is a quite old post on BMWblog, dating back year 2004, about the inside look at the BMW Vehicle Distribution Center at Port Hueneme.  Article after the jump.

Tracking my MINI Countryman :: Landed in California!

Today, Auriga Leader docked at Port of Hueneme and dropped off CountrymanMotoring's precious MINI Cooper S Countryman among many other MINIs, BMWs, and others. While the Auriga Leader is now somewhere in Pacific Ocean to deliver someone else's precious ride, CountrymanMotoring has visited the port on the day of to witness the 'arrival ceremony'. Complete story coming soon.

Tracking my MINI Countryman :: Auriga Leader in Port Hueneme tonight!

It is finally the time. After about 4 weeks of long voyage since it left Bremerhaven, Germany, Auriga Leader will dock at Port Hueneme sometime tonight/tomorrow morning! I will be at Port Hueneme tomorrow and see her in person... as well as my Countryman for the first time and its shipmates!

Tracking my MINI Countryman :: Auriga Leader in Long Beach tonight!

Auriga Leader is just leaving Port of San Diego and headed to Los Angeles - Port of Long Beach precisely! It will arrive tonight after a short voyage. I am wishing I can just drive down there tonight and pick up my long waited Countryman, but unfortunately, the world is not that perfect. On the bright side, the day after tomorrow, May 12, Auriga Leader will arrive at our final destination, Port Hueneme!!!

[ Source :: Marinetraffic.com ]

Tracking my MINI Countryman :: Auriga Leader back in range! Nearing San Diego

Auriga Leader is finally back in the range of NIS tracking system! After 9 days of voyage from Panama, she is currently off the coast of Ensenada, Mexico. From here on, we will be able to track her every move until the arrival at Port Hueneme on May 12. She is scheduled to arrive in San Diego in few hours.

[ Source :: Marinetraffic.com ]

REPORT :: MINI Connected in shortage?

It is being reported that MINI Connected, one of the option unique to MINI brand, is in short supply prompting unavailability of MINI Connected in the order sheet.  The cars already ordered by the dealers will be manufactured without it, and customers who custom ordered are being informed of indefinite delay of their cars' production unless they are willing to go without it. This affects all MINI models, not just Countryman. In certain cases, customers are being advised to order MINI Connected + Navigation as it is still available. Apparently, all this is due to part shortage caused by Japanese tsunami. While there was enough inventory of stand alone MINI Connected module at the time of disaster, some key component suppliers in Japan are not being able to fill the new orders, prompting the shortage. There is no word yet on when the availability will be back to normal.

Tracking my MINI Countryman :: Toledo passing Panama Canal

Toledo, the x-candidate of a car carrier vessel for my Countryman, is currently passing Gatun Locks in Panama Canal. Its precious passengers include assortment of MINIs, BMW and other cars. Is your MINI on Toledo? Read more for images of Toledo passing Miraflores Locks.

VIDEO :: MINI Countryman hits Cape Town streets. Night Driving!

I love night time driving. Open up the moonroof, play your favorite tune, then just drive wherever it takes you - through the open freeway overlooking downtown to street light lit city streets.... one of the best of way to enjoy motoring, IMO. Read more for short clip of MINI Countryman driving through the night streets of Cape Town, S. Africa by Ruairi Abrahams

Tracking my MINI Countryman :: Auriga Leader is scheduled to arrive in San Diego on May 9

Auriga Leader is scheduled to arrive at the port of San Diego at 17:00 May 9. While the exact time is TBD, Auriga Leader will show up on marinetraffic.com site sometime this weekend and we will be able to track its every move during its stay on US shores. After San Diego, it will stop by Long Beach on May 11, before finally arriving in Port Hueneme on May 12 as scheduled. Read more to see a complete port schedule and a short video about automotive services at port of San Diego.

MINI Countryman 5 Seater Bench Seat confirmed for September

Families and pet owners rejoice! You will be able to order/configure rear bench seat for MINI Countryman starting July September 2011 production. Bucket Seat is already available in other market, and was canned initially due to US rules and regulations. However, it turned out that the rear bench seat does meet the requirement for 3 passenger seating, thus MINI will be able to offer it to those who want it. While I personally do like rear individual bucket seats (and the center rail/ambient lighting setup), I won't be surprised if take rate for the bench seat in US is more than 50% as Americans love bench seats for their CUV. Additional image after the jump

Tracking my MINI Countryman :: Auriga Leader tracking update.

Finally talked to someone at NYK Line. Auriga Leader is scheduled to arrive in San Diego on May 9 (Ship might arrive in San Diego area on May 7, but will not dock at the port until May 9) Then Long Beach on May 10-11. Port Hueneme May 12 as scheduled.

$1000 off Countryman or ANY MINI! Register & Attend MINI Rocks the Rivals test drive tour

Yes. You read the above right. MINI is gracing us with $1000 off ANY MINI certificate (including the new Countryman!!!) for those who register and attend MINI Rocks the Rivals Test Drive Tour. What you have to do is 1. Call/Email MINI center near you to RSVP to attend or simply show up on the event date 2. Must register at the event upon arrival - MUST! 3. Purchase or Lease any new 2011 MINI model by July 5, 2011.  MINI will email you the certificate after you attend (& register) the event. Also, remember to negotiate your best price with the dealership first. Then, add this additional $1000 savings on top for a killer deal. This promotion can also be combined with any other incentives such as 1 bonus option (if available - all except Countryman). Also, since the certificate comes from MINI, you can use it at ANY MINI Center. Certain restrictions will apply.

It seems this is one of the best promotion MINI have had recently ($1000 off PLUS any other incentives). So, if you always wanted a MINI, you are in luck! - large inventories at the dealership (no need for wait. more choices! and better negotiating power), plus simply a killer deal. Read more for the remaining tour dates/location and more information.

MINI Sales Figures April 2011

MINI rocketed forward during the month of April, 2011 and scored the Best Month ever for US market. MINI USA reported sales of 6,446 cars, which is an increase of 67.7% over the 3,843 sold in April, 2010. Year to date for 2011 is up 49.4% versus 2010 (18,787 vs 12,571) Read more for details.

VIDEO :: MINI WRC Team Ready to Go!

MINI found out I was flirting with Aventador and got jealous. So... it sent me the message with a video "MINI WRC Team Ready to Go!" With only a few days left to go for Rally d'Italia Sardegna, MINI WRC Team is ready than ever! The upcoming race marks a highly anticipated official race debut of MINI John Cooper Works WRC car and we have high hopes for Dani Sordo. This is going to be exciting. Video after the jump

Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4. What? Seriously? This is a MINI blog??!

Yes.. I've set up this blog for my MINI Countryman.. I've been covering all things MINI Countryman and will continue to do so, not a single doubt about that. But there comes a moment where you allow yourself to take the meaning Motoring to the extreme. Consider it as 'Motoring's wet dream'.. for 37 seconds.

*Advisory :: Do not sell your MINI. Heck do not sell your house after watching the video even if the greater force might tell you to do so.

MINI Countryman Inspired by Goodwood is coming.

I have posted questioning whether there would be MINI Countryman Goodwood in the near future. [here] Now, it is being reported that MINI will indeed expand the hideously named "Inspired by Goodwood" edition - Why can't they just call it "Goodwood"??? - across the MINI range including convertible, Clubman, and Countryman! So while JCW models will take of our boiling blood's need for sport and speed, Goodwood models will appeal to our senses desiring ultra fine leather, real wood, and luxury in space efficient MINI! Yes, $60k Countryman is coming in near future to a MINI center near you! [price estimated]

Tracking my MINI Countryman :: Auriga Leader has 'Priority Status' carrying 2012 BMW 650i Convertibles?

There is an unconfirmed report of our star vessel, Auriga Leader, is carrying west coast launch cars of new 2012 BMW 650i Convertibles, and has 'Priority Status' for its voyage. Supposedly, BMW is taking care of the extra tab for this. This could explain why the Auriga Leader passed through the Panama canals fast without any stopping and heading straight to So. California. It is scheduled to arrive in San Diego on May 7. Whether true or not, while it seems the arrival date at Port Hueneme is still in tact for May 12, I wouldn't mind expedited arrival of Auriga Leader!

CountrymanMotoring goes MINI Rocks the Rivals at Alexander MINI

What a busy weekend it was! This past Saturday, I was busy pressing "PrtScn" button on my keyboard followed by "Ctrl+V" - to capturing Auriga Leader passing Panama Canal - then right after that I was off to Alexander MINI, Los Angeles, CA for MINI Rocks the Rivals test drive event. Then today.. well... that's personal! More details and images from the event coming soon. Read more for images.