Three-time World Touring Car champion Andy Priaulx has tested MINI’s new Countryman WRC but insists he has no plans to make the switch to rallying permanent.
Priaulx drove the car at a test venue close to Prodrive’s headquarters in Banbury, UK alongside MINI’s lead driver Kris Meeke.
“I had a bit of fun,” said Priaulx. “It was great as Kris was there so he was able to show me the ropes, and then he was brave enough to sit beside me while I drove the car. It really is a lovely little car, and I am sure the programme will be successful. This was an amazing opportunity and I can’t thank David Richards enough for giving me such a great chance. However, before anyone starts getting excited about me swapping from racing to rallying, I need to point out it is a one off and I can’t visualise myself taking on the rally boys at this stage in my career!”
The MINI is fitted with the same 1.6-litre turbocharged engine powering BMW’s 320 TC model that will be used by privateers on the World Touring Car Championship next year, tested by Priaulx in Valencia last week.