About MINI Countryman
Mini kicked off a growing model range in 2010 with the Countryman – its first SUV, and a model that was perfectly timed with the growing range of crossovers coming to market. Sales started later in the year, with the range including petrol and diesel models, while a sporty John Cooper Works version would follow.In early 2017, a second-generation Countryman reached showrooms, growing in size, and meaning its interior was even roomier, and better-suited than ever to family duties. New high-end technology was also introduced, while the range grew to include a plug-in hybrid – Mini’s first electrified car to reach production.
Why buy a used Countryman?
Some crossovers can seem a bit charmless, but the Countryman certainly can’t be tarnished with the same brush, as this is a small SUV bursting with fun and style. Despite being not-so-mini, it retains many of the brand’s core qualities, and it’s immediately recognisable as a Mini.From its big round headlights, circular instrument panel and Union Jack-inspired rear lights (on 2020-onwards cars), this is a car that’s packed with style. A huge range of colours and personalisation also mean there are plenty of bespoke Countrymans for sale on the used market.
But despite retaining these qualities, the Countryman manages what other Minis fall short of – interior space. The second-generation more so, as it offers plenty of room, even for adults in the rear. It’s also equipped with sliding rear seats, while the wide-opening back doors increase day-to-day usability. At 450 litres, its boot is a great size, and noticeably more than any of the brand’s other cars. The Countryman is a true Mini family car.
The choice of versions on offer also adds to the Countryman’s appeal, from simplistic Classic versions to the racier-looking Sport models and then the luxurious Exclusive version. A broad range of engines are available, including efficient diesels, low-cost petrol models and even a plug-in hybrid, which offers up to 26 miles of electricity on a single charge – providing scope for low running costs.
At the other end of the spectrum is the John Cooper Works model, which has the title of Mini’s most powerful road car to date. Using a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine producing 302bhp and 450Nm of torque, it means this SUV can accelerate from 0-60mph in just 4.9 seconds.
Countryman updates
Here’s a short history of the Mini Countryman, which dates back to 2010.- Mini took the bold step in 2010 of revealing its first SUV – the Countryman. It was Mini’s first model with five doors and five seats, and opened up the brand to a whole new audience. First deliveries would commence later in the year.
- In 2013 Mini expanded the range with a sportier John Cooper Works model, bringing four-wheel-drive and a 215bhp 1.6-litre petrol engine, among other tweaks.
- The Countryman received a mid-life update in 2014, with the model gaining more rugged styling, a more powerful Cooper S engine and additional colour options.
- In 2016 Mini unveiled the second-generation Countryman, bringing a smart new design, a roomier interior, additional technology and a plug-in hybrid powertrain – Mini’s first electrified model to go on sale. Deliveries started in early 2017.
- In 2019 Mini introduced an even hotter John Cooper Works model – using a 302bhp 2.0-litre petrol engine, making it the firm’s most powerful car ever.
- A slightly revised version launched in 2020, bringing subtle styling tweaks, new Union Jack-inspired rear lights and a range of new colour and wheel options.
Which used Countryman should I buy?
There are four main Countryman models to choose from on the latest version. Equipment highlights and pricing are as follows.
MINI Countryman Classic
Electric parking brake, LED headlights, Union Jack design LED rear lights, ambient lighting, LED reading lights, cruise control, 8.8-inch touchscreen, air conditioning, Apple CarPlay, satellite navigation, automatic lights and wipers, rear parking sensors, keyless start, 16-inch alloy wheels.
MINI Countryman Sport
Chilli Red paint colour (as standard), upgraded 18-inch John Cooper Works alloy wheels, Piano Black styling kit, black roof, John Cooper Works bodykit, sports seats with dinamica upholstery, sports suspension, Mini driving modes.
MINI Countryman Exclusive
Enigmatic Black exterior paint colour, 18- or 19-inch alloy wheels, silver roof and mirrors, leather sports seats, anthracite headlining, Nappa leather steering wheel.
MINI Countryman John Cooper Works
18-inch John Cooper Works styling kit, All4 four-wheel-drive, Piano black accents, red brake callipers, sports suspension, Torsen mechanical limited slip differential, climate control, heated seats, front centre armrest, reversing camera, keyless entry, front parking sensors, leather and Dinamica sports seats.
What should I look for when buying a used Countryman?
- With the Countryman often being bought as a family car, look out for any signs of excess wear and tear – particularly in the rear seats.
- Dashboard rattles aren’t uncommon with the second-generation car, so listen out for any noises, as they can be tricky to diagnose.
- On first-generation Countrymans, the clutch can wear quickly on manual cars fitted with All4 four-wheel-drive. If the clutch is slipping, it could be a sign an expensive repair is needed.
- Petrol first-generation Countrymans can suffer from a stretched timing chain if run low on oil. If an engine sounds rattly, it could show the chain is about to snap, which can cause huge engine damage.
- First-generation Countryman alloys are prone to corrosion.
- The ‘chrome’ on early Countrymans is actually just plastic, with the coating on it peeling easily.
