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As the iconic Mini brand’s second try at a SUV/wagon crossover, the Countryman gets a lot of things right. From fingertip-sensitive handling to unique styling and plenty of interior space, it provides those who loved the Mini experience with more room for cargo, human or otherwise. New families will appreciate the improved space, while image-conscious drivers will be able to enjoy their vehicle’s presence on the road.

The steep grille and powerful shoulder line are further emphasised by the distinctive headlights. There are more highlights on the side, too, such as four doors and free-standing side scuttles with a dynamic design. At the rear is the eye-catching large tailgate with a MINI that doubles as a boot-opener.

The first thing we noticed about the 2011 Countryman was that the tall people didn’t immediately start making snide comments. The Countryman comes with 4-seat and 5-seat options, with either one offering plenty of back seat head and leg room. Trunk space was decent, definitely superior to the original Mini Cooper, and driver head room was drastically improved. Dash styling appeared very similar to the original Mini Cooper, with oversized dials and switches in whatever color you like. With smartphone integration, optional GPS navigation and plenty of room for cup holders, the 2011 Countryman’s interior began to feel downright luxurious.

Mini Cooper Countryman comes standard with antilock disc brakes, front side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, corner brake control and stability control.

-          Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)

-          Central locking, automatic at 10mph

-          Corner Braking Control (CBC)

-          Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) inc. Hill Assist

-          Automatic Stability Control + Traction (ASC+T)

-          Crash sensor

-          Disc brakes all round - vented at front

-          Electronic Braking Distribution (EBD)

-          MINI Mobility System (MINI MS)

-          Passenger airbag deactivation

-          Tyre defect indicator

-          Driver and front passenger front airbags

-          Driver and front passenger side airbags

-          Curtain head airbags

-          Three-Point safety belts with pretensioners

Taking the 2011 Mini Cooper Countryman out for a test drive was a fascinating experience, because we didn’t know what to expect. While it was about the size of a small crossover utility vehicle, it had the quirky go-kart-esque styling of the Mini Cooper. Would it feel tough and sturdy on the road, or would it be nimble and quick? It turned out that it was a mix of both, with the all wheel drive providing a sense of stability to a car that could still dart in and out of traffic with the best of them. Taking about seven seconds to go from 0 to 60 mph, it lagged behind the traditional Mini acceleration, but still offered a fun driving experience. We drove over some hard gravel and dirt roads and through some rough weather, and the Mini performed admirably.

The Mini performed turns on a dime, though the steering system took a little bit of getting used to. The initial turn of the wheel produced a sharp turn of the car, but as the car went through the turn, the handling gradually became less light and more robust. It worked well, but it was unlike any car we’d driven before.

Click here to view the standard and optional equipments sheet.

Click here to view the specifications.