A Western-style welcome for the MINI Countryman

MANILA, Philippines - Let’s face it: “crossover SUV” isn’t quite what comes to mind when you mention MINI – that iconic breed of petite speedsters promising an exhilarating go-karting experience. Why not? Through half a century, MINI’s nimble performers have always been exactly that: mini.

But the truth of the matter is that many contemporary car owners are pragmatists. They deserve to be heard, and their needs addressed, if they are to participate in car purchases. For instance, while purists may contend that a MINI can never be “upsized” like a soda drink, pragmatists may wholeheartedly applaud the idea of providing more space to match the spunk. Whichever side you take, what is incontestable is that local MINI distributor British United Automobiles (BUA) staged one heck of a welcome recently for the bigger sibling of our friendly neighborhood Cooper named the MINI Countryman.

The Grove by Rockwell on C5 was the chosen venue, with guests encouraged to come in “modern country attire.” Leading the affair was BUA president Willy Tee Ten, who was seen entertaining guests way past midnight.

A huge lighted MINI sign (perhaps a cue to the delicious “oxymoron” to be unveiled) stood by the entrance of the venue. To its right was a life-size, western-flavored diorama featuring horses, cattle, and some cowboys and cowgirls thrown in for good measure. After registration, guests were treated to some free snacks and drinks, given personalized bag tags, and even took part in a little pellet target practice to win MINI items.

The highlight, of course, was the presentation of the MINI Countryman. Guests were ushered into a large room for the introduction. On all four walls flashed images that gave an illusion of travel. Finally, the front panel opened as a white MINI Countryman drove forward with lights flashing and horn blaring – the same unit that The Philippine STAR’s Motoring team had the privilege of testing a week before (and which we featured on the day of the launch itself in our Business section). The response was one of awe and clear admiration as guests crowded the unit, sat inside, and checked out the sleek design of this big MINI.

Out back in the main event venue, two more units were displayed for public viewing. The ambience was clearly western here, too. With a band dishing out country music, a mechanical bull invited the brave to mount it. Food was also true to the concept – ribs, corn, potatoes, sausages, roast calf, and other sundries. Of course, we also welcomed the Pinoy touches of classic puto bumbong and bibingka. And what is a proper party without beer? There were kegs, cans, and more kegs. BUA also raffled off an all-new iPad2, iTouch, and limited edition MINI items to guests who made the trip out “west” to welcome the MINI Countryman with a “yee-haw”.