BMW’s take on the Mini has been a phenomenal success since the experiment began in 2001.
One problem Mini had building on its popularity, though, is the issue that when its buyers got older and started having children they had to switch away from the brand.
That was rectified a few years ago with the Mini Countryman. It’s not to everyone’s taste, taking the svelte Mini form and moving it to a much bigger package, but it allows fans of the brand to continue ownership once kids arrive.
It was launched in 2010 and facelifted in 2014. Now the second generation model is here.
Mini brought a couple of Countrymans up to Scotland for a day of driving in the scenic environs of Loch Lomond.
The new model is slightly bigger than the old and comes with a plusher interior. Prices stretch from the £23,000-£33,000 region and there’s a broad range of petrol and diesel engines.
Being derived from parent company BMW the engines are among the best out there, with all offering an impressive blend of power and economy. The most economical diesel Countryman returns a very impressive 65.7mpg.
It’s available in two or four-wheel drive. While the majority of British buyers will probably plump for front wheel drive, Scotland is a different market with rural drivers often seeking surety in extra traction. With that in mind I took a diesel engined ALL4 out for a spin around Loch Lomond.
The day was dry so there was little opportunity to test the four-wheel drive. Safe to assume it’s not going to match a Land Rover Defender but should offer sure footedness on a snowy Scottish winter’s day.
It rides higher than a Mini hatch, giving an elevated view of the road. Ride quality is good but there’s a little more wind and tyre noise than in the best of its rivals.
Inside is where you really notice the difference between the first and second generation models.
This one’s noticeably bigger: finally, there’s room for adults in the back and a family’s luggage in the boot.
Can the Countryman beat other small premium SUVs such as the Audi Q2, Seat Ateca and Mercedes GLA?
All of the above have it licked when it comes to refinement, but the Countryman can now compete in terms of space and interior quality.
It also has the distinctive Mini looks. If you’re a fan of the brand that’s going to be the clincher.
