The original Mini Cooper has always equaled to Mr. Bean, which has always equaled to silly, funny, and simply put, a toy. Not anymore though…
· Design & Engineering:
Really, not very mini at all. From the nose, the original cuteness of the Cooper is gone. The grills have been darkened, and outlined in chrome. The headlamps have enlarged, and seem to be the size of basketballs. From the side, the standard wheel rims fill up wide wheel arches fill nicely. The turn signal indicators extend from the front wheel arches, into the bottom of the windshield, sloping at a 25° angle. The most obvious difference about the Countryman, is the addition of two more doors—proper doors where ordinary people (not children) can get into, and feel comfortable throughout. The rear sports a blown up Mini badge, where the bottom left and right corners are jagged in, so as to aid aerodynamics. Next to the Cooper logo, lies the word ‘S’, outlined in red, pointing towards the extra oomph the car can give. Of, course, no proper Mini S vehicle would be complete without chrome tipped tailpipes, each on either side of the rear. Really, if one takes a step back, the vehicle has grown—as if reaching a growth spurt, and has a wider and taller stance. Mini now equals, more intimidating.
· Interior
Ever since BMW bought over Mini at the turn of the millennium, the interiors have been getting better and better, with BMW material and that quality build. One problem. The interior of the Countryman comes standard in one colour—which applies to everything, from the floor mats, to the seat and car plastics. On the other hand, most of you probably know by now, that to me, a good steering wheel is the first step to a quality interior. Having used BMW materials, the steering wheel feels clean and a tad squishy, for improved grip. On all Mini’s, the revolution counter lies where the dashboard of a normal vehicle would; the speedometer takes the spot on the center console, and incorporates the (what seems to be) simplified i-drive system in it. At night on the Countryman S, the speedometer is outlined in a racing red, providing a sportier feel. The simplified i-drive system works like a charm, and I daresay, is even better to use than the ones of BMW. The buttons on the center console, feel cheap and outdated, though the leather gripped gear shifter feels nice to hold in one’s palm. Air conditioning vents now come airplane style, with vents also outlined in chrome. Being a Mini, spunk comes as standard. Take these nifty features for instance. Changeable ambient lighting comes at the toggle of the settings, an aircraft style handbrake, along with removable sunglasses holders. What appeals to most, is the addition of a third rear seat—with the removal of four-wheel drive, the two-wheel drive version now gets a rear bench. Rear seating is surprisingly, all right, with good back seating arrangements, along with the optional leather upholstery. However, if one chooses, one can specify for the center rail down them middle, which reduces the total number of seating to a mere four. Sadly, the lack of rear air-conditioning proves to be a problem in tropical countries, as the Mini’s air conditioning vents aren’t exactly ‘powerful’. Headroom is snug, considering the position of the vehicle altogether, but is made up for by the standard, yet superb sound system. For an even greater experience, an optional Harman/Kardon sound system is also up for grabs. Boot space has also improved, given the larger and more generous proportions. Liking the space Mini~
· Ride & Handling
This is where I have to give it to the Mini. Essentially, all Minis’ are derivatives of golf carts. With the Countryman, handling is as precise as ever, and incredibly easy to maneuver. Take into consideration though, that due to its increased height, a touch of body roll is experienced. Out on the road, the renown 1.6-liter, twin scroll turbo charged engine proves itself, as it devours the open roads with gusto. The Countryman rides fairly well, and gobbles up minor unevenness. On the whole, the Countryman makes for a decent small-family vehicle—and a ‘Mini’ off roader, if one desires to tick the four-wheel drive version. There you have it—simply a grown Mini.
· Verdict
Exterior slightly intrusive, though apt for such a vehicle. Interior a tad old-school, though quality build and simplified i-drive, do make up. Space at the rear surprisingly good—personally, I would tick the option for the center rail in the middle for more of that special ‘spunk’. Four wheel drive please.
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