Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2018 Mini Countryman with Manual Transmission and Front Wheel Drive

Question:

We are looking to purchase a Mini Countryman with manual transmission. From what I can find, the AWD cannot be flat town, but the FWD can. As long as it is a manual transmission. Are there any other restrictions on the models, such as the S model, or different years? Thanks for any input

asked by: Randy B

Expert Reply:

Your vehicle's owner's manual will always be the most reliable source of information on what you can safely do with your 2018 Mini Countryman depending on the trim package and drivetrain; typically you're correct that the AWD versions of the Mini Countryman cannot be flat towed behind an RV and that the FWD versions with a manual transmission can, but it will vary and it's always best to consult the manual or manufacturer. I do know that there aren't base plates that will fit on the S models of the 2018 Mini Countryman, so it's safe to say it's best to avoid that sub-model if you want to flat tow.

With that said, there are certain models of the 2018 Mini Countryman that can be flat towed without any issues and a complete flat towing setup consists of base plates, a compatible tow bar, safety cables, tow bar wiring, supplemental braking and possibly a high/low adapter. I've gone ahead and listed the parts I recommend to complete your flat towing setup for a 2018 Mini Countryman.

Base Plates- Blue Ox # BX1316
Tow Bar- Blue Ox Alpha 2 # BX7380 (comes with safety cables included)
Tow bar Wiring- Roadmaster Flexo-coil Diode Wiring Kit # RM-152-98146-7
Supplemental Braking- Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR

You may also need a high/low adapter to keep the tow bar level while you're towing; I've linked a helpful article on how to measure to find if one is needed, as well as our entire selection you can choose from if you end up needing one.

I've also linked some installation and review videos of these parts for you to check out and use as a guide when it comes time to get these onto your Mini Countryman.