The MINI Countryman takes what many people like about the standard MINI and super-sizes it. It's taller, longer, has five doors and optional all-wheel drive. While it isn't small for a MINI, it's actually a usable urban size for people who want a small crossover that's flexible and relatively fun to drive.
The Countryman gets a bit of a facelift for 2015, with new colors, a new grille and revised interior trims. The optional All4 package lets you have off-road looks with front-wheel drive.
The base Cooper trim comes with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder with 121 horsepower and front-wheel drive. The Cooper S has a turbocharged version of that engine, with 181 horsepower. The S All4 adds all-wheel drive to that. All configurations come standard with a six-speed manual transmission, while a six-speed automatic is available as an option.
The base Cooper includes essentials such as power amenities, height-adjustable front seats, push-button start, seating for five, 16-inch alloy wheels and automatic climate control. Major options include an automatic transmission, panoramic sunroof, Comfort Bluetooth with audio streaming, the MINI Connected package with in-car apps and optional navigation, Xenon headlamps, LED fog lights, 18- and 19-inch wheels, leather upholstery and rear parking sensors. Some options are available in various packages, while others have to be individually ordered.
The Cooper S adds the turbocharged engine, along with sport front seats, Dynamic Stability Control and Comfort Bluetooth. It has similar options to the Cooper, along with an available firmer suspension.
The All4 signifies all-wheel drive, along with chunkier styling front and rear, and roof rails.
The Countryman's base engine isn't really up to the challenge of moving this car with four people and their luggage, so if that's what you're after on a regular basis then you'll be happier with an S variant. But choose your options carefully, as adding standard niceties like an automatic transmission, metallic paint and smartphone integration quickly add to the price and make crossovers from the next size up look like a bargain.
