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The first Mini model with four doors and a large tailgate has claimed a top 5-star score in the latest Euro NCAP crash test results.
In this internationally-recognised test programme - which was further tightened recently by the addition of more test criteria - the Mini Countryman put in a convincing performance with its wide range of standard-fitted safety equipment designed to ensure highly-effective occupant protection for both adults and children in various types of collision.
Alongside the high levels of active and passive safety designed to reduce the risk of injury inside the Mini Countryman, its pedestrian protection measures also played their part in securing the top rating.
In the frontal collision at a speed of up to 64km/h, which forms part of the Euro NCAP crash test, the passenger cell of the Mini Countryman proved to be extremely stable.
Irrespective of the size and sitting position of the passengers, only a slight risk of injury was detected. The Countryman earned the maximum number of points for occupant protection in a side-on collision, while the testers also rated the risk of injury to the cervical vertebrae in a rear-end collision as low.
The crash test results were just as positive when it came to the use of seat systems for three-year-old and 18-month-old children. Both in the frontal and the side-on collision, a stable position and minimal head movements at the moment of impact were registered in each case.
Among the equipment protecting the passengers inside the car are front and side airbags, curtain head airbags covering both rows of seats, three-point inertia-reel seatbelts for all seats and Isofix child seat attachments in the rear.
The front seats have belt tensioners and belt force limiters, while the safety steering column of the Mini Countryman also comes with a deformation element. The body structure, restraint systems and safety electronics are perfectly co-ordinated to minimise the consequences of any type of collision.
The technology contributing to the Countryman's active safety includes Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), which is fitted as standard. This system comprises not only anti-lock brakes (ABS) but also Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Brake Assist and Hill Assist. The car also has a runflat indicator as a standard feature. This system monitors the tyres and uses a visual signal in the on-board computer display to alert the driver to any tyre damage.
The Countryman is the second of the brand's current range of models to undergo the Euro NCAP crash test and immediately scoop the top 5-star rating. Prior to this the Mini Cooper had already secured the coveted maximum score from the independent NCAP testers by virtue of its comprehensive standard-fitted safety features and its exemplary crash behaviour in a diverse range of collisions.
Acquired by the BMW Group in 1994, the Mini brand includes the Mini Cooper and Cooper S, Mini Cooper Cabrio, Mini Clubman and the Mini John Cooper Works range of models and will soon include the brand new vehicle in the Countryman, a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV).
For more information contact Euro Motors on 17750750.
