One person’s crossover is another motorist’s truck. Whatever you prefer to classify the MINI Countryman as, here’s something we can all get behind. A jury of automobile writers from several premiere publications are considering, for North American Truck of the Year, the MINI Countryman. MINI Winter Park fans are keeping their fingers crossed and are excited to see it included in such a short list.
Even those at MINI Countryman dealers are curious to see how their vehicle stacks up against the competition. Those nominated are selected on the grounds that they’re an “all-new or substantially upgraded 2012 model.” In the MINI’s case, its elevated riding height and optional 4-wheel-drive capabilities place it firmly in the truck category.
Only 6 other vehicles are classified as trucks. However, the car category is quite crowded with 17 candidates vying for the title. These writers will gather in Hell, Michigan to vote on semi-finalists and then finalists, which will be announced on Dec. 15. For any MINI fan, the wait seems like an eternity. The winner will be dubbed on Jan. 9.
If the MINI Countryman wins, it’ll join the history of champions, which includes the Ford Explorer in 2011 and the Transit Connect in 2010. MINI continues to push the envelope every year, and this 2012 MINI Countryman is no exception. Its unique design and form will surely make it stand out from competitors.
Here’s hoping the 2012 MINI Countryman can take home the crown.
