MINI Countryman Cooper D ALL4 Chili

The MINI Countryman provides salvation for the thousands of MINI buyers who have grown out of their three-door hatchbacks but want to stay loyal to the retro brand.

Grafting an extra set of doors on to the existing MINI template hasn’t been a complete visual success, though. From the front, the recognisable grille, angled headlamps and SUV-style stance give the Countryman a purposeful look. But in profile, and from the rear, it is much less appealing. Still, if you want a family car that makes a statement, the MINI fits the bill.

Video: watch CarBuyer's video review of the MINI Countryman

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Open the door, and fans of the firm will be pleased to see the cabin hasn’t deviated from the tried and tested MINI formula. The large multifunction speedo in the centre of the dash borrows directly from existing models, while the column-mounted rev counter and chrome toggle switches are all staples of the brand. They combine to give  the cabin real character, and the interior is a far cry from the more conventional Alfa.

The back seats are the big talking point as they provide genuine practicality – a first for a MINI. The sliding 60/40 split bases allow owners to vary the amount of leg or boot space depending on their requirements – and this could come in handy as the boot doesn’t look as big as the 350-litre capacity suggests. Although it’s no MPV, this is the most sensible MINI yet. And the options list is as long as ever. 

Cooper D trim includes rear parking sensors, air-conditioning and Bluetooth connectivity as standard, but our test car’s Chili Pack adds features such as auto air-con, sports seats, front foglights, 17-inch alloy wheels, a trip computer and multifunction steering wheel for £2,490. However, its white indicator lenses (£70), chrome interior trim (£90) and heated front seats (£250) show how much further scope there is to personalise your car.

No amount of money will get you more diesel performance, though, because the 110bhp 1.6-litre unit is the most powerful oil-burner in the range. It’s willing, but outgunned here, and you need to work it hard to keep pace with the faster Alfa. What it lacks in outright punch, it makes up for in other ways. 

For instance, tall gearing (it pulls only 2,000rpm at 70rpm in top) ensures it’s relaxed on the motorway. Only its firm ride loses it marks – the Countryman crashes across expansion joints and into potholes with a jolt. But the rewards are worth it for enthusiastic drivers, as the MINI is much more engaging.

The stiffer set-up provides sharp body control and lively responses. Characteristically alert steering is backed up by even weighting, plus there’s more front-end bite. As a result, the MINI inspires confidence on twisty roads, where its taller driving position and all-wheel traction come into their own. 

Its perfectly placed pedals, strong brakes and agile chassis put the Alfa in the shade. But does its high price, livewire nature and lack of pace cost it dear?

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Chart position: 1
WHY: The boxy Countryman turns heads, but not in the same way as the pretty Giulietta. But it has a characterful cabin and all-wheel-drive hardware on its side.