Mini Countryman 1.5 Cooper S E Classic Premium+ ALL4 PHEV 5dr Auto Review
Category: Small SUV
Section: Version review
The model
Read full reviewThe Mini Countryman offers a good combination of space, style and desirability, with a beautifully finished interior and an excellent infotainment system among its virtues. But many rivals are cheaper and better equipped, while the Ford Puma is much more fun to drive and the Volkswagen T-Roc a lot quieter and more comfortable. Our advice is stick to the cheaper versions for the best value for money, although the plug-in PHEV is a cheap company car.
The trim
See full equipmentWe'd stick to the Classic trim (although this isn't our favourite engine) because otherwise, the Countryman's price starts to match those of larger family SUVs, such as the Seat Ateca and Skoda Karoq. And besides, the Classic trim comes with an 8.8in infotainment screen with sat-nav, a DAB radio and Apple CarPlay, plus rear parking sensors, LED headlights, digital instruments, 16in or 17in alloy wheel (depending on the engine choice), keyless start, auto lights and wipers, cruise control and air-con. It's worth looking at optional packs, such as the Activity Pack, which adds sliding rear seats, a powered tailgate and picnic tables, or the expensive but feature-laden Comfort Pack Plus, which includes climate control, heated front seats and power-folding door mirrors.
The engine
See full engine specsThe SE PHEV All4 model combines an electric motor, driving the rear wheels, with the Cooper’s petrol engine, making it four-wheel drive. It also boosts power to 217bhp combined, so the PHEV's 0-62mph time of just 6.8sec is second only to the 300-plus-bhp JCW performance model. More usefully, perhaps, the PHEV can run on its electric motor alone officially for up to 30 miles. Obviously, it’s not as quick without the petrol engine helping out, but its performance is plenty for around town and the top speed's still over 70mph.
