MINI Countryman review - Reliability and safety

The MINI Countryman was crash tested by Euro NCAP in 2017, where it earned a five-star safety rating. It had a higher percentage score for adult occupant protection than the last Countryman, but a lower score for child occupant protection. That might seem strange, but remember that the test has been made tougher in the intervening years between the two models being tested.

In addition to its six airbags, tyre pressure monitoring system and rear parking sensors, the Countryman also includes MINI's Driving Assistant system, which features adaptive cruise control and other active safety technology.

MINI has had variable scores in the Driver Power new car ownership survey, but the firm has consistently finished ahead of the BMW mothership in our polls. Both brands showed solid improvement in 2022, however, with MINI moving up to ninth position (out of 29 manufacturers) – a rise from 19th the previous year, and BMW moving to 16th overall – a climb of five places from 21st spot in 2021. The Countryman was voted into 36th position on a 75 car-list.

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Warranty

Every Countryman offers a three-year/60,000-mile cover, which is typical for the class but not exceptional. However, that can be extended to five years and 100,000 miles at the time of purchase, and with some haggling you could get that included in the cost of the car. 

Servicing

For around £18 a month, MINI offers its Pay Monthly Servicing plan which includes two services, an MOT and other sundries such as a free wash and vacuum and occasional health checks.