MINI Countryman Review & Prices

The new Mini Countryman is like a tall friend with an ironic nickname. Just as ‘Tiny’ is really 6’ 7” and coaches the local basketball team, there’s nothing very ‘mini’ about the Mini Countryman.

This is the third generation of the largest of the Mini family, and it has grown even further in size. The new model is taller and longer than the old Countryman, and should be on the shortlist of anyone thinking of buying an Audi Q2, BMW X1, or Mercedes GLA.

For the first time, there’s also an electric version, dubbed Countryman Electric, but we’ll concentrate on the petrol-powered car here (there are no diesels).

The range starts with the 170hp Countryman C. This is the most fuel-efficient model in the range and can return up to 46.3mpg in official tests. It brings the Countryman’s starting price just below £30,000.

For a bit more speed and four-wheel drive, buyers can choose the Countryman S All4. With 218hp, the S sprints to 62mph in 7.1 seconds and returns up to 41.5mpg. There’s quite a jump in price to £41,520, though

For hot-hatch performance in an SUV body, the Cooper JCW has 300hp and a 0-62mph time of 5.4 seconds. It returns up to 36.2mpg on the combined cycle, so it’s not too thirsty despite the power on offer.

Whatever engine is under the bonnet, the new Countryman promises improved cabin space. Mini says that wherever you sit, you have more shoulder room compared with the old car. There’s more distance between the front and rear wheels, so you’d expect legroom to have increased as well.

As an optional extra, the rear seats can move back and forth to prioritise passenger legroom or boot space as required. The back rests recline over a 12-degree range with six individual positions, too.

Boot space has also increased. The capacity is now 460 litres with the back seats upright, which compares well with the Audi Q2 and Mercedes GLA.

Mini has added more tech as well as extra space. The new Countryman is the first Mini capable of Level 2 semi-automated driving. The driver can take their hands off the wheel at speeds of up to 37mph, so long as the driver is ready to take back control as needed. You’ll need to opt for the Driving Assistance Plus package for all the most advanced driver aids.

The infotainment has been updated, too, switching to the latest Mini operating system, which promises to be both better to look at and easier to use. Mind you, some of the new functions, such as AirConsole in-car gaming, are paid-for upgrades.

Buyers can alter the look of the Countryman by choosing between three individual trims. Classic comes with a choice of three paint finishes, two roof colour options, and three alloy wheel designs, with the Mini logo in Vibrant Silver.

Exclusive trim adds more exterior design elements, including the option of a multicoloured roof.

Sport has a different front and rear bumper design, along with high-gloss black for the Mini logo and framing the front grille. Optional bonnet stripes add to the motorsport vibe.

We’ll have an in-depth review once our expert road testers have spent more time with the car, so check back for their verdict ahead of deliveries commencing around February 2024. For now, you can see how much you can save by browsing the latest Mini Countryman deals on carwow. You can also take a look at used Countrymans as well as other used Minis. Want to sell your car? Well, carwow can help with that, too.