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MINI unveils rugged Countryman special edition ahead of 2026 debut
The BMW‑owned MINI brand is finalising a rugged Countryman special‑edition designed for off‑road use. The prototype features a camouflage paint scheme, all‑terrain tires, increased suspension travel and a roof‑mounted cargo box, with a visible gasoline engine under the front radiator. Prototypes are being tested in the United States’ Rocky Mountains, where the vehicle is challenged on unpaved tracks, steep passes and variable weather.
Pricing is expected to be above $40,000 and the model will be presented at a world premiere scheduled for October 2026. MINI’s senior brand manager Jean‑Philippe Parang said the project reflects the brand’s long‑standing adventure spirit. The development follows earlier attempts such as the 2010 MINI Beachcomer concept, which never entered production despite strong internal reaction, and builds on MINI’s history of Dakar Rally success.
The upcoming special‑edition marks MINI’s first serious foray into the compact off‑road segment, shifting the brand from its traditional urban‑crossover image toward a more versatile, adventure‑focused identity.
Entities
Holger Hampf · Jean‑Philippe Parang · MINI Countryman · Mini · Rocky Mountains
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 2 SOURCES] MINI is developing a rugged Countryman special edition with all‑terrain tires and increased suspension travel. www.bmwblog.com · levolant.jp
- [● 2 SOURCES] The prototype is being tested in the Rocky Mountains in the United States. www.bmwblog.com · levolant.jp
- [● 2 SOURCES] The vehicle features a camouflage paint scheme. www.bmwblog.com · levolant.jp
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The special edition is slated for a world premiere in October 2026. levolant.jp
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The special edition is expected to be priced above $40,000. www.bmwblog.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] MINI has won the Dakar Rally six times and collaborates with X‑Raid on off‑road projects. www.bmwblog.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] MINI previously displayed the Beachcomber concept in 2010, which never entered production. www.motoringfile.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The prototype shown appears to have a gasoline engine under the hood. www.bmwblog.com