MINI Countryman 1.6i Cooper S ALL4
What is it?
THE most desirable car on the planet right now, if the number of heads we turned on our test drive is anything to go by. New Countryman is the MINI for those who loved the first re-born, 2001 car, but now have families. Or just need a bit more space. About the same size as a five-door Fiesta, it gets a raised ride height and optional four-wheel drive. MINI One, Cooper petrol and Cooper D diesels are available. Tested here in range-topping Cooper S ALL4 trim, which costs £22,030.
What’s hot?
- The fact it’s a new MINI model. Few cars cause as much of a stir…
- Distinctive looks boast all the right MINI cues. Definite want-one factor
- Our 2+2 model had plenty of space in the back for two tall adults
- Rear seats can be slid back and forth
- The boot is a useful size too at 350 litres, or 1,170 seats down
- Sharp steering, agile handling and slick gearshift remain intact…
- …even if its sheer size means it’s not quite as sparkling
- 184PS 1.6-litre turbo offers strong pace…
- …yet returns 42.2mpg and 157g/km thanks to stop start
- Which means it still qualifies under 160g/km 20% WDA tax break
- ALL4 four-wheel drive system gives great traction
- Quirky dashboard is easy on the eye
What’s not?
- Our test car’s large alloys meant the ride was very crashy
- Some plastics felt scratchy and of poor quality
- The front end can look bulbous from some angles
- Add the Chilli Pack (auto air-con, xenon lights and foglamps)…
- …and this model’s price tag rises to £28,420
What you need to Know?
P11D Value: | 21,820 |
Monthly Rental*: | 310 (CH)/£364 (PCH) |
Tax Band when posted: | 20%, 21%, 22% |
Monthly BiK: | Click link for BIK |
Engine: | 1.6 4-cyl turbo petrol |
CO2 Emissions: | 157g/km |
Power/torque: | 184PS/240Nm |
Economy: | 42.2mpg |
Monthly contract hire (CH) and personal contract hire (PCH) rentals generated by Concept Vehicle Leasing. Based on a 36 month lease at 10,000 miles a year, 3+35 payments.