[Test Drive] Mini Countryman, Sturdy Appearance with Excellent Space Utilization GOOD

[Asia Economy Reporter Suyeon Woo] The MINI Countryman has pioneered the premium compact car market by achieving sales of 540,000 units worldwide since its debut in 2011. In the past, MINI was often perceived as having a cute appearance but lacking practicality, but recent MINI models have enhanced their marketability with sophisticated designs and space-efficient engineering.

The MINI Countryman has established itself as a popular model leading the brand, selling over 2,000 units domestically this year (up to October). The MINI Countryman released last October is a facelifted version of the second-generation Countryman, returning after three years, equipped with various options and digital services.

I personally test-drove the enhanced MINI Cooper Hightrim Countryman gasoline model to evaluate its design and driving performance. First, there is nothing to fault in the design. Most MINI buyers prioritize the cute and sophisticated design as the top factor in their choice.

The radiator grille of the MINI Countryman is designed with the traditional MINI hexagonal structure, featuring angular headlights and integrated daytime running lights with an asymmetrical frame. The taillights incorporate a Union Jack design, emphasizing MINI's unique modern personality, and new exterior colors such as Sage Green and White Silver have been added to expand the selection.

The interior space showcases MINI’s distinctive circular design elements. Behind the steering wheel is a 5.0-inch display screen that provides vehicle information at a glance. Additionally, the center console features a touch display within a circular frame, and a head-up display is provided to enhance navigation usability.

Convenience features have also been expanded. Wireless Apple CarPlay is provided as standard, and the latest MINI Connected functions have been introduced, allowing access to digital services via the MINI app such as tele-services and intelligent emergency call remote services.

The Countryman has significantly improved on space utilization, which was considered MINI’s biggest drawback. The trunk capacity is 450 liters by default, and folding the rear seats in a 40:20:40 split expands it up to 1,390 liters. The rear legroom is also generous enough for an adult to fit a fist between the seat and knees.

Sitting in the driver’s seat, the supportive backrest that holds the driver firmly was impressive. When starting the engine and pressing the accelerator, the quick response typical of a compact car and smooth driving performance were confirmed. The test vehicle, the MINI Cooper Hightrim Countryman gasoline model, is equipped with a 1.5L 3-cylinder TwinPower gasoline engine. It delivers a maximum output of 136 horsepower and a peak torque of 22.4 kg·m.

The Countryman driven that day demonstrated stable driving performance even at high speeds, and fuel efficiency was maintained around 10 km per liter. Considering it is a compact SUV, the quietness was also quite good. However, the ride comfort was somewhat disappointing as road shocks were transmitted directly to the cabin floor.

If you like MINI’s stylish design and cannot compromise on space utilization, I recommend adding the Countryman to your purchase list. The lineup includes three gasoline and three diesel models, allowing for various choices. The MINI Countryman is offered in six price tiers, ranging from 39.6 million KRW for the gasoline Cooper model to 55.9 million KRW for the Cooper SD model (including VAT).

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.