Three-time World Touring Car Champion Andy Priaulx has become the latest driver to test MINI’s brand new Countryman WRC, in a one-off outing at Prodrive’s test track near Banbury.
The test came about as Priaulx - a factory BMW driver on the World Touring Car Championship - has always been interested in rallying, and was offered a run in the car by Prodrive chairman David Richards.
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; part of the ‘world engine’ plan outlined by the FIA as a blueprint of the future of world motor sport.
Kris Meeke, who was confirmed for MINI in September, sat alongside Priaulx throughout the short test.
“I had a bit of fun,” commented Priaulx afterward the test. “It was great as Kris Meeke 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!”
Priaulx has driven a number of rally cars before at the Race of Champions, including the Ford Focus WRC and the Abarth Grande Punto S2000. Next year, the Guernseyman will concentrate on endurance racing with BMW’s GT2 M3.
MINI is expected to announce former Citroen driver Dani Sordo as Meeke’s team mate imminently.