Introduction
Mini is revamping its entire lineup, introducing electric powertrains, new infotainment systems, and enhanced build quality. The latest Countryman stands out as an exceptional compact SUV.
The Countryman has been Mini’s most successful offshoot, blending the best attributes of the Mini hatchback with a larger, more practical body style. Now in its third generation, the Countryman is bigger, more technologically advanced, and available as an electric model for the first time. This review focuses on the petrol-powered versions, as the electric Mini Countryman E is set to launch later this year.
The new Countryman comes in various versions: the entry-level Countryman C, the Countryman S All4, and the high-performance Countryman JCW. Pricing starts at £29,335, positioning it as a competitor to the Nissan Qashqai and Kia Sportage. Although it shares a platform with the new BMW X1 and X2, the Countryman boasts a unique exterior design and bespoke interior.
Interior and Space
As a family-oriented vehicle, the new Countryman is the largest model in the Mini lineup, growing by 6cm in height and 13cm in length. The interior has been effectively redesigned, featuring a minimalist dashboard reminiscent of the new Mini hatch. It has a curved upper panel with integrated air vents and a smart, tactile textured surface.
The sliding rear seat bench can be adjusted to maximise either legroom or boot space, and the backrest can be reclined for added comfort. The build quality has seen significant improvements, offering a premium feel with neat design cues such as integrated ambient lighting. Boot space is 460 liters, slightly less than other mid-size crossovers.
Technology and Safety
At the heart of the Countryman’s interior is a new OLED central infotainment screen, adopting a round shape with a small panel of toggle switches beneath. The screen delivers beautiful graphics and responsive touch inputs, with customisable themes. However, its round shape can make it feel a bit cramped.
A virtual personal assistant, Spike, allows voice command control by saying "Hey Mini." Mini also offers Level 1 and Level 2 equipment packages. Level 1 (£2,800) includes a head-up display, heated front seats, comfort access, and adaptive LED headlights. Level 2 adds a panoramic sunroof and a Harman Kardon sound system. The optional Driving Assistant Professional package (included in Level 2) features adaptive cruise control with lane-keep assist and a semi-automated driving system for lane changes and stop-start motorway driving.
Performance and Handling
The Mini Countryman C is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine delivering 170PS through a seven-speed automatic gearbox to the front wheels, achieving 0-62mph in 8.3 seconds. It offers responsive acceleration and efficient fuel consumption, with official figures of 45-48mpg, which we found accurate.
The gearbox is controlled by a small toggle switch, offering Drive, Reverse, and Neutral. Paddle shifters are available for manual control. The driving experience is top-notch, with nimble steering and impressive ride quality, enhancing both city and country driving. The Countryman is a refined cruiser on longer journeys, maintaining comfort in its premium cabin.
The Countryman S All4, with a 2.0-liter engine producing 204PS, offers better performance and all-wheel drive stability but higher CO2 emissions, making it less appealing for fleets. The 300PS JCW version also delivers strong performance but falls into the highest benefit-in-kind tax band due to even higher emissions.
Running Costs and Tax
The new Countryman offers low running costs of just 40p per mile over a four-year cycle, comparing favorably against a similarly specified Nissan Qashqai at 45p per mile. However, a higher benefit-in-kind tax rate of 32% makes it less attractive compared to electric and plug-in hybrid models. The upcoming Countryman E and SE models with electric powertrains are expected to be the preferred choice for fleets.