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Roch-Lè Bloem
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KayCee Rossouw
There is nothing mini about the Mini Countryman. In fact, it’s bigger than its predecessors and is just fun to drive. I parked next to a large bakkie recently and the length and breadth dimensions were almost identical. The bakkie was just slightly higher.
So from the outside, the Mini Countryman is pleasing to the eye. Welcoming front light, large door panels, smooth and sleek lines and plenty of space both in cabin and the booth. The black material used on the dash and other cabin components is different to what is generally used to. It is very pleasing. The steering wheel is comfortable and has that race-feel grab. But the main attraction is the centre circular console with everything you will need from a driver’s assistant point is there. Climate control, Navigation, Apple and Android connections are seamless with the touch of a button. Then there is the Harmon-Kardon sound which, if you are music aficionado like me, is all the fine sound you will ever need.
So, what’s the drive like?
Just below the circular console are the famous ‘piano’ keys. Here, the start and gear selection buttons are aptly configured into the dash. I have to mention that the centre circular console gets some getting used to, after always seeing the speedometer and rev counter right in front of your eye, or sometimes in the heads-up display. But spend a few days driving around and you soon get used to a slight glance to the left. But coming back to the drive: It’s as smooth and efficient as you like. Gear changes at take-off is seamless and once you are on the highways and byways, the Mini is a real breeze.
Space: The Final Frontier
Importantly for a family SUV, the new Countryman gets more cabin space than before. There's plenty of room in the front, and plenty of legroom at the back for a tall person. As an optional extra, the rear seats can move back and forth to prioritise passenger legroom or boot space as required.
Speaking of which, boot space has also increased. The capacity is now 460 litres with the back seats upright, which is more than you get in other SUV’s.
Be Entertained!
The infotainment has been updated, too, switching to the latest Mini operating system, which looks great and responds fairly quickly to your touch – though the circular shape of the screen takes some getting used to, and the Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity is awkwardly integrated. The Harmon Kardon sound system is a big plus with crisp and clear tones and bass. Loved it, being a music aficionado. The Android maps and pairing of the phone was very easy and quick.
Let’s talk numbers!
Sticking with the regular petrol Countryman here, it's an easy car to get along with. The suspension is pretty comfortable over bumps and visibility is decent around town thanks to the raised seating position. TwinPower Turbo internal combustion engine with 156 kW and 230Nm, with a 1499cm3 displacement. 0 to 100 kmph in just under 9 secs.
Final Word
It’s the biggest Mini yet. Be prepared to be impressed. Go on. Take the next step.
Price
Mini Countryman: From R724 820
