OVERVIEW 2019 MINI COUNTRYMAN
September 11 2019, Max Landi
MINI as a brand is known for its small and fun-to-drive cars. Originating from the Cooper, MINI's identity has its roots set in stone with that 3 door hatchback. Despite its smallest offering, the MINI Cooper is the flagship of the brand. The Countryman, however, is quite a different story. Entering its second generation, this subcompact crossover is the largest car that MINI currently offers - certainly steering away from the concept of the original MINI Cooper. Despite sharing a platform with the BMW X1 and X2, the Countryman is still very much a MINI. The playful character and driving enjoyment are still here.
In 2019, the Countryman comes in four different variations, starting with the Cooper Countryman, then the Cooper S Countryman and the John Cooper Works Countryman as the ultimate performance Countryman. Alongside these three offerings, there is a new plug-in hybrid version of this subcompact known as the Countryman S E. All of these MINI'S have the ALL4 all-wheel-drive system as a standard feature. This brief overview will be discussing the mid-trim Cooper S with a twin-scroll turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 189hp and 207lb/ft. With a massive but responsive steering system, a stiffly sprung ride and a fruitful engine; the Countryman certainly holds up to go-kart handling reputation that MINI's are famed for. For a buyer that is looking for a subcompact crossover that prioritizes an engaging experience, look no further than the Cooper S Countryman.
As the Countryman is the big MINI, it should accommodate much more than the standard MINI Cooper. The Countryman surprises with an impressive amount of space for its occupants. Six-footers will have plenty of freedom in the front seats and would hardly mind trips in the back seats sitting behind front-row occupants that share a similar height and build. The interior of the Countryman offers endless amounts of customization thanks to the ambient lighting system and the ability to alter the centre light ring characteristics. The centre light ring surrounding the standard 6.5 inches or the upgraded 8.8-inch touchscreen can react to inputs around the car. For example, the ring can act as a secondary tachometer or indicate the temperature range from the available dual-zone climate control system. Much more customization can come from the official MINI Accessory line where you can fulfill the vision you have for your perfect MINI.
