Home > News & Blogs > 2017 Mini Countryman Review: First Impressions

2017 Mini Countryman Review: First Impressions

Redesigned Mini Countryman Review: The Ultimate Urban Adventure SUV | MotorVero

The Redesigned Mini Countryman: Where Urban Sophistication Meets Adventure-Ready Performance


Mini Countryman review

The Mini Countryman continues to redefine the compact luxury SUV segment with its latest iteration, blending the brand's signature playful personality with surprising practicality. As Mini's largest model, the Countryman strikes an impressive balance between go-kart-like handling and genuine everyday usability that appeals to urban adventurers and young families alike.

--FIRST CAR LIST HERE--

Key Highlights

  • 47.6 cubic feet of cargo space (17% increase over previous generation)
  • Class-leading rear seat legroom at 37.6 inches
  • Available ALL4 all-wheel drive system
  • Standard 6.5-inch infotainment with available 8.8-inch touchscreen
  • Up to 301 horsepower in John Cooper Works trim

A Practical Yet Playful Design Evolution

The current-generation Mini Countryman represents a thoughtful evolution of the brand's design language while addressing previous criticisms about space constraints. The exterior maintains Mini's iconic proportions but with 8 inches of additional length compared to its predecessor, creating noticeably more interior volume without sacrificing the model's distinctive character.

Thoughtful Interior Packaging

Mini's engineers worked magic with the Countryman's interior dimensions. The 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats now offer 5.1 inches of fore/aft adjustment (a segment rarity) and recline functionality. Combined with the higher roofline, this creates limousine-like comfort for rear passengers while maintaining easy access through wider door openings.

--TOP ADVERTISEMENT HERE--

Front Headroom

41.1 inches

Rear Legroom

37.6 inches

Cargo Capacity (seats up)

17.6 cu.ft.

Max Cargo Capacity

47.6 cu.ft.

Innovative Features for Active Lifestyles

The Countryman shines with clever solutions for outdoor enthusiasts. The available Picnic Bench transforms the rear bumper into a seating area - perfect for gear changes or trailside lunches. This complements the optional power liftgate (now with gesture control on higher trims) that makes loading bulky items effortless.

--SECOND CAR LIST HERE--

Technology That Entertains

Mini's signature circular center display dominates the dashboard, now featuring:

  • Available 8.8-inch touchscreen with navigation
  • Apple CarPlay integration (Android Auto on newer models)
  • Customizable ambient lighting with 12 color options
  • Harman Kardon premium audio system option

Performance: More Than Just Cute

Don't let the playful styling fool you - the Countryman offers serious driving dynamics. The Cooper S variant's 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder delivers 189 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 7.1 seconds. The available ALL4 all-wheel drive system provides confident traction in all conditions while maintaining Mini's legendary cornering prowess.

Efficiency Meets Excitement

The plug-in hybrid Countryman SE (available in select markets) combines a 1.5L three-cylinder engine with an electric motor for 221 combined horsepower and up to 12 miles of electric-only range. This makes it ideal for urban commuters wanting to reduce emissions without sacrificing Mini's trademark driving experience.

--FIRST CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--

How It Stacks Against the Competition

When compared to rivals like the Mercedes-Benz GLA and Audi Q3, the Countryman offers:

  • More standard features at lower price points
  • Superior cargo capacity in most configurations
  • More engaging driving dynamics
  • Greater personalization options

While some competitors may offer plusher interiors, none match the Countryman's combination of practicality and personality. It stands as the clear choice for drivers who refuse to compromise between fun and function.

--THIRD CAR LIST HERE--




Final Verdict: Who Should Consider the Mini Countryman?

The redesigned Countryman represents Mini's most compelling offering yet for:

  • Urban dwellers needing parking-friendly dimensions with SUV versatility
  • Young families requiring more space than a traditional Mini provides
  • Outdoor enthusiasts wanting style with genuine utility
  • Drivers prioritizing engagement in the compact SUV segment

With its expanded dimensions, premium features, and trademark Mini charm, the Countryman successfully bridges the gap between city car and adventure vehicle. It proves that practicality needn't come at the expense of personality - a rare feat in today's automotive landscape.

proImg

Motorveroben

Last Updated On Jul, 03-2025

Share Now: