The new generation of the Mini Countryman becomes an entirely new car, much larger and more technological. But a strong connection to the brand’s long history still remains. Compared to the outgoing model, it is 13 centimeters longer, reaching 4.43 meters, and flaunts a completely new look, bringing onto the road a stylistic language unprecedented for Mini.
We got behind the wheel of the most performance-oriented variant available, the John Cooper Works, which stands out for its dedicated aesthetics. At the front, the presence of the large grille with a specific pattern and large air vents is striking. The Full-LED headlights have a more squared shape compared to the past and allow you to choose between different animations when lock or unlock the vehicle. The lateral view is very massive, characterized by the particular insert on the third window in the same color as the roof, on which the John Cooper Works emblem is displayed. The rear is distinctive: the taillights have been reinterpreted digitally, with an intricate pattern made up of numerous pixels. Contributing to a more aggressive touch to this setup are the four circular exhaust outlets positioned at the bottom of the bumper.
But it’s when entering the car that you see the biggest leap forward. The interior is now very minimalistic, following the “charismatic simplicity” philosophy. The design of the first Mini, from the 1950s, is echoed by the large OLED screen positioned at the center of the dashboard, which serves as both the instruments cluster and infotainment system. It has customizable graphics that can recall the style of the “original” Mini. The attention to quality is also significant, which is evident in the careful selection of parts made from recycled materials
From a technical point of view, the John Cooper Works is powered by a 2-liter turbocharged engine producing 300 hp, paired with a dual-clutch automatic transmission that delivers power to all four wheels. Despite its increased dimensions, the Countryman remains very agile and precise through corners, with the 2-liter engine always ready and providing linear acceleration. On the lineup there are also two electric models, one diesel, and two other petrol engines.
