Does Mini not have four-wheel drive?
3 Answers
Mini does have four-wheel drive models. Here are the relevant details: 1. Four-wheel drive models: The four-wheel drive models are equipped with an on-demand four-wheel drive system. Mini's vehicles are all front-wheel drive cars with transversely mounted engines. This front-wheel-drive-based on-demand four-wheel drive system mostly only delivers power to the front wheels. Only when the front wheels slip or encounter certain special road conditions will power be distributed to the rear wheels. 2. Mini engine: The 1.5-liter turbocharged engine in Mini's four-wheel drive models has a maximum power of 100 kW, a maximum torque of 220 Nm, a maximum power speed range of 4400 to 6000 rpm, and a maximum torque speed range of 1400 to 4300 rpm. This engine features direct fuel injection technology and uses an aluminum alloy cylinder head and block.
I've been driving MINI for many years. Originally, the brand only made front-wheel-drive cars, as small cars emphasize handling agility. But after 2010, the market changed—people wanted cars that could handle snow and mud, so MINI introduced the ALL4 all-wheel-drive system. Now, the top-tier COUNTRYMAN can be equipped with all-wheel drive, with the system normally sending 95% of the power to the front wheels. When slipping occurs, it can instantly distribute up to 50% of the power to the rear wheels, making cornering very stable. However, classic models like the three-door MINI and the CLUBMAN wagon remain front-wheel drive. If you absolutely want the authentic MINI look with all-wheel drive, wait for the next generation of electric vehicles—without an engine, fitting all-wheel drive becomes much easier. By the way, MINI's all-wheel drive is especially great for friends in northern regions. Last winter during heavy snow, my ALL4 version climbed mountains without any slipping at all.
Most MINI models feature front-wheel drive layouts, like the classic 3-door, 5-door, or convertible versions. However, the COUNTRYMAN SUV variant with the ALL4 badge comes with all-wheel drive, which is somewhat similar to BMW's xDrive system. It uses an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch to automatically adjust torque distribution between the front and rear wheels. My neighbor bought a top-spec COUNTRYMAN last year with this feature, and he said it feels exceptionally stable when changing lanes at high speeds in the rain. The price difference between the standard front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive COUNTRYMAN is about 20,000 RMB - it depends on whether you think it's worth it. If you're looking for serious off-roading, MINI isn't the best choice; this AWD system is primarily designed to enhance safety on paved roads.
