2024 Mini Cooper Countryman

Despite the idea of a Mini SUV seeming controversial, the 2024 Cooper Countryman continues to endure. This is largely because even luxury brands that have not traditionally shown an interest in the segment need to have something for fans to choose from. This is especially important in the USA, where SUVs are eminently popular. However, rivals like the Audi Q3 and BMW X1 are better suited to the market, with more space for people and stuff, and more power. But that isn't what a Mini is for; the Cooper Countryman doesn't weigh as much, which means you can really lean into its playful nature, and it offers a choice of two engines topping out at 189 horsepower. This alone is enough for most fans to give it some serious consideration.

The price of the 2024 Mini Cooper Countryman hasn't changed much, with the base model starting at $32,650. The all-wheel drive Cooper ALL4 will cost you $34,150, while the more powerful Cooper S sells for $32,900. This model also gets an ALL4 variant that adds $2,100 to the bill. This is the top-of-the-range model, unless you want to take a look at the John Cooper Works ALL4. These are the MSRP prices for the Mini Cooper Countryman and do not include tax, registration, or the $995 destination charge.

While it may have some unusual proportions for a Mini, the 2024 Countryman is still very true to the brand's ethos of fun first. It has sharp and accurate steering that gives you enough feedback to feel confident about what the wheels are doing. If you're too eager taking a corner, the body will lean, but the chassis is well-built and it can handle the strain. A good set of brakes will help you come to a stop quickly if things get out of hand. It's never going to be sporty - but to get as close to that as possible, you'd have to opt for the John Cooper Works version. With its sport-tuned suspension and available adjustable front and rear dampers, the JCW is particularly adept at these spirited antics. Neither the regular nor JCW models are capable of off-roading though, even with the all-wheel drivetrain in play, but it can manage dirt roads just fine. The Countryman is supposed to be a luxury vehicle, so it offers a comfortable ride, though it can be a little stiff at times.

If you're looking for a practical commuter or family car, then look elsewhere. The Mini Cooper Countryman is all about having a good time, though it does allow you to run some light errands between your joyful jaunts around town. It has little room in the back, though young children should fit comfortably, and the trunk is laughably small for a vehicle that calls itself an SUV. It's also expensive and doesn't offer particularly good fuel economy. However, if you are a fan of the brand and its handling dynamics, chances are you stopped reading when we said the Countryman can give you a good time - and that's fine, too. This odd Mini doesn't try to be something it's not. It's a fun subcompact crossover with loads of character but not a lot of common sense.

Considering it weighs more than your average Mini Cooper, you should probably avoid the Countryman models that come with the base three-cylinder engine. Similarly, the John Cooper Works might provide loads of power, but its price tag is very high for what it brings to the table. The Goldilocks model is the Cooper S, which allows you to spec high sub-trims than the regular Cooper and gives you enough power to have a good time. Similarly, the mid-tier Signature sub-trim is the one to aim for, since it adds all the essentials without asking you to pay for things you don't really need.