Mini first entered the SUV market with the Countryman in 2010, and it proved to be a game-changer for this British brand.
Offering the most space of any Mini, it helped to open the brand up to a wider audience, including families and pet owners, and has been key to its growth. A second-generation model only helped to build on this with its even more practical interior, and further powertrain choice.
While Mini is readying a new version in the coming years, the current Countryman remains a fantastic choice with its cool styling, well-built interior and enjoyable driving experience. Let’s take a look at what you need to know.
What engines are available?
There are four engine options available on the Countryman – three petrol and one plug-in hybrid. All versions these days use an automatic transmission, too.
Kicking things off is the Cooper, which uses a 134bhp 1.5-litre petrol engine that allows for a 0-60mph time of 9.5 seconds, with Mini claiming up to 44.8mpg fuel economy.
If you want more power, there’s the Cooper S, which uses a 176bhp 2.0-litre petrol unit that can take the Countryman from 0-60mph in 7.1 seconds, with Mini claiming up to 43.5mpg. This engine is also available with optional ALL4 four-wheel-drive.
Above this sits the John Cooper Works (JCW), which uses Mini’s most powerful production engine to date – a 2.0-litre unit that produces 302bhp, which allows for a 0-60mph time of under five seconds. A claimed 37.2mpg is given. The JCW is four-wheel-drive, too.
But if fuel efficiency is a greater priority, you might want to look at the plug-in hybrid. It pairs the engine of the Cooper together with an electric motor for a combined 217bhp, with all-wheel-drive provided as standard. Offering a 0-60mph time of 6.6 seconds, Mini also claims an electric range of around 30 miles, helping it to achieve a fuel economy figure of up to 156.9mpg.
What trim levels are offered?
Five versions are offered on the 2023 Mini Countryman, with equipment highlights and pricing as follows.
Classic – from £28,815
Standard kit on the countryman includes full LED lighting, cruise control, heated seats, keyless entry and automatic climate control. You also get 16-inch alloy wheels, an 8.8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and satellite navigation, along with rear parking sensors and automatic lights and wipers.
Sport – from £32,015
The Sport gets a number of John Cooper Works styling touches, including 18-inch alloy wheels, a JCW bodykit and spoiler and a black roof and mirrors. Sports suspension is also fitted, along with sports seats.
Exclusive – from £32,015
The Exclusive model brings a silver roof and mirrors, the choice of 18- and 19-inch alloy wheels, leather sports seats and a number of Mini Yours styling touches.
Untamed Edition – from £39,375
This special edition is based on the Exclusive grade, and comes with unique 18-inch alloy wheels and a Momentum Grey body colour with a black roof and roof rails. Highland Green leather seats are also fitted, along with a number of ‘untamed’ graphics.
John Cooper Works – from £33,660
At the top of the line-up is the John Cooper Works. You’re prominently paying more for its sportier engine, but it also gets black 18-inch alloy wheels, red brake callipers, larger brakes and a specific honeycomb grille. Dinamica and leather sports seats are also fitted, along with a Torsen mechanical differential.
What about personalisation?
Mini is a brand that’s renowned for its personalisation, and the Countryman is no different. There’s a choice of 11 body colours to choose from, while you can also specify bonnet stripes and a roof in black, white or silver.
Various leather colours are available, including cream, blue, black and orange, while a host of wheel options can be specified.
More conventional optional extras available include the Premium Plus Pack, which adds a head-up display, panoramic sunroof and Harman Kardon sound system, and is worth specifying. Individual options that can be chosen include adaptive LED headlights and an electric boot.
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