First Videos of MINI's Countryman WRC Testing in Portugal!

Thanks to a tip from Carscoop reader Rafael, we can now share with you the first video footage of MINI's new Countryman WRC prototype, which was caught testing earlier today (Tuesday) at Ponte de Lima in Portugal.

The Prodrive developed and built World Rallying Championship version of the Mini Countryman is powered by a 1.6-litre, four-cylinder turbo-charged engine from BMW Motorsport to comply with the new Super2000 regulations. Like the road-going model, it also gets four-wheel drive.

According to MINI, the Countryman WRC will be ready to compete at selected rounds of the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) before completing the full series in 2012.

Hat tip to Rafael!

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VIDEO: MINI 50 Camden and 50 Mayfair Specials

MINI has released video footage of its special edition '50 Camden' and '50 Mayfair' models that were created in celebration of the brand's 50th anniversary. Both cars made their first public appearance at the firm's birthday party that was held in Silverstone at the end of May. Available in Cooper, Cooper S and Cooper D guises, the MINI 50 Camden and 50 Mayfair feature special color schemes along with unique design cues. Production will be limited to one year with deliveries set to start in September. Hit the jump to watch the videos or click here for more details.

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Video: 2009 MINI Convertible on the Road

MINI took the wraps off its second-generation Convertible model well ahead of the car's scheduled premiere at the Detroit Show in January 2009. The latest MINI Convertible is distinguished by a range of features such as the new generation naturally aspirated and turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder petrol engines, a newly developed electrohydraulical softop as well as a variety of styling and design components. Hit the jump to watch the video or click here for more detailed information and a high-res photo gallery of the 2009 MINI Convertible.

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