Redesigned Mini Countryman: Bigger Size, Same Driving Fun?

The Mini Countryman has always occupied a unique space in the compact SUV segment, blending British heritage with German engineering and a dose of playful personality. The latest generation takes this formula and amplifies it with more space, more power, and more technology. But does this growth spurt come at the expense of the go-kart handling that made Mini famous?

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The Evolution of Mini's Largest Model

The Countryman represents Mini's ambitious expansion beyond its city car roots. As consumer preferences shifted toward crossovers, Mini responded by stretching its design language over progressively larger vehicles. The Countryman has grown substantially with each generation, and the current model represents the most significant transformation yet.

Built on BMW's UKL2 platform (shared with the BMW X1), the latest Countryman benefits from:

• A 7.5-inch longer wheelbase (105.1 inches vs. 97.6 inches)
• 2.3 inches more width (71.7 inches vs. 69.4 inches)
• 8.1 inches of additional length (169.8 inches vs. 161.7 inches)

This dimensional growth translates to a more substantial presence on the road and significantly more interior space, particularly in the rear seats and cargo area. The weight increase—approximately 300-400 pounds depending on configuration—comes primarily from this larger footprint and additional sound-deadening materials.

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Performance Specifications: What's Under the Hood

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Driving Dynamics: Does the Magic Remain?

The fundamental question for any Mini enthusiast is whether the brand's signature driving character survives the Countryman's growth. Our testing reveals a surprisingly nuanced answer.

Steering and Handling

The electric power steering system in the new Countryman represents a significant improvement over its predecessor. While some purists lament the loss of hydraulic steering racks in modern cars, Mini has managed to tune its system to provide:

• Precise turn-in response
• Progressive weighting that builds naturally with cornering forces
• Excellent on-center feel for highway stability

Body roll, while more pronounced than in the two-door Cooper, remains well-controlled for the segment. The suspension strikes an impressive balance between compliance over rough pavement and resistance to lean in corners. All-wheel-drive models benefit from torque vectoring that helps rotate the car through tight turns.

Powertrain Performance

The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder in the Cooper S Countryman delivers its power in a characteristically Mini way—with a strong midrange punch that makes the car feel energetic in real-world driving. However, the additional weight is noticeable when:

• Accelerating from a standstill
• Passing at highway speeds
• Climbing steep grades

The six-speed manual transmission (a rarity in the segment) features a light but precise shift action that enhances engagement. Automatic models use an eight-speed torque-converter unit that shifts smoothly and responds quickly to paddle inputs.

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How It Compares to the Competition

Against key rivals, the Countryman maintains its distinctive character:

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The Fun Factor Beyond Driving Dynamics

Mini understands that "fun to drive" encompasses more than just handling. The Countryman delivers enjoyment through:

Playful Interior Design

The cabin features Mini's signature circular motifs, toggle switches, and customizable ambient lighting. Unique touches include:

• LED projection rings around the central infotainment screen
• Available panoramic sunroof with Union Jack pattern
• Customizable color schemes for interior trim and lighting

Technology That Enhances Engagement

Mini's infotainment system includes "go-kart mode," which:

• Sharpens throttle response
• Adjusts steering weight
• Changes the digital display to emphasize performance metrics
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Final Verdict: Who Should Consider the Countryman?

The Mini Countryman occupies a unique niche that will appeal to specific buyers:

Ideal For:

• Drivers who want SUV practicality without sacrificing engagement
• Mini enthusiasts needing more space but not wanting to leave the brand
• Urban dwellers who value compact dimensions but occasional need versatility
• Those who appreciate distinctive design in a segment full of conformity

Not Ideal For:

• Buyers prioritizing maximum cargo and passenger space
• Drivers who prefer a plush, isolated ride quality
• Shoppers on a tight budget (options quickly increase the price)

Ultimately, the Countryman proves that growth doesn't necessarily mean giving up personality. While it can't match the agility of smaller Minis, it retains enough of the brand's magic to stand out in a crowded segment. For drivers who value engagement and style as much as practicality, the Countryman remains a compelling choice.