The MINI Countryman is the largest and most versatile member of the MINI lineup. With the increased popularity of small crossovers and SUVs, the Countryman ideally fits that niche with added utility, an upscale cabin, and refined handling dynamics. The Countryman was introduced for the 2011 model year. The second-generation model arrived for 2017 and was refreshed in 2021. It carries into 2022 from last year’s update with minimal changes.

Trims for the Countryman are base, S, and John Cooper Works (JCW). The base Countryman comes equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels, integrated roof rails, synthetic leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a panoramic moonroof, and an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Adding Apple CarPlay will require selecting the optional navigation package (there is no option for Android Auto). Available options include dual-zone climate control, wireless device charging, satellite radio, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo.

Standard driver-assistance features include automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and rear parking sensors. Options include parallel-park assist, front parking sensors, and a head-up display.

The base MINI Countryman comes with a 134-horsepower 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine. The Countryman S comes with a 189-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The John Cooper Works model also features a 2.0-liter turbo-four, tuned for 301 hp. These engines route power through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard, and all-wheel drive (AWD, which MINI dubs All4) is optional with both engines. The most efficient configuration is the 1.5-liter with FWD. It returns fuel economy of 26 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, 29 mpg combined.

Base MSRP for the 2022 MINI Countryman is $29,100. The Countryman S starts at $31,900. AWD adds $2,000 to the base price of either of these trims. The MINI Countryman John Cooper Works comes standard with AWD and has a starting price of $41,500. MINI also offers the Oxford and Boardwalk special editions, as well as Classic, Signature, and Iconic sub-trims. The Countryman is also available as a plug-in hybrid, which is covered in a separate review.