By Nauman Farooq
BMW has done a wonderful job with their MINI brand, by expanding its lineup with models in different sizes, and some optional power outputs, to appeal to a larger group of people. In comparison, Mercedes-Benz didn’t do much with their ‘smart’ brand, in fact, it has dwindled down to just an electric model that doesn’t appeal to the masses!
However, not everyone is a fan of the variety of models offered by MINI, saying they’re diluting the brand! I say, the more models the merrier.
While I enjoy the smaller 3-door and 5-door MINI Cooper models, the one that fits my lifestyle (and my generous proportions) is the Countryman model. The topic of this week’s review is the Countryman in its most potent version, the John Cooper Works (JCW) – so how did it go?
Styling: The second-generation Countryman hasn’t changed much at all since I first drove one back in 2017, and that’s OK, because its styling is still fresh, and interesting. The Midnight Black Edition, with its ‘Absolute Black Metallic’ paint didn’t do anything to make it more appealing for me, but it didn’t distract either. I really liked its multi-spoke wheels, finished in silver and black – giving it that extra sporty style.
Interior: Step inside, and the interior looks identical to that of any other Countryman model, and personally I wasn’t a fan of its ‘Carbon Black Punch Leather’ seats – I’d have preferred some crazy color to liven things up!
Otherwise, the interior is well laid out, and my tester was very well equipped – navigation, reversing camera, heated seats, panoramic sunroof, a Harman Kardon sound system, and lots more. The only feature I wish it -and all other MINI models- had was a heated steering wheel. I hope in the near future, that feature will find its way in all MINI models, even if it comes as an optional extra.
Based on the platform of the BMW X1, the Countryman offers plenty of space for a family of five, and their luggage – this is a very usable and practical vehicle.
Powertrain: Powering the JCW is a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder motor that produces 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Unleash the power correctly, and you’ll sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in about 6.5 seconds, and will max out at 234 km/h – that’s fast enough!
While my tester had the eight-speed automatic transmission, this model is also available with a six-speed manual – which would make it even more exciting for the well heeled!
Driving Dynamics: Thanks to all-wheel drive grip, and a good chassis, the Countryman JCW handles really well – this thing is fun on back roads. However, the suspension is a bit too stiff on anything but carpet smooth city roads – its tight suspension does take a bit of getting used to, but that is kind of a charm of a urban warrior like this.
On the highway, it rides well, and feels reassuring -even when the weather not the most pleasant- but I do wish it was better insulated from tire roar. So, while you can tour the country with your Countryman, I don’t think it is the ideal vehicle for that.
Fuel Economy: In my test cycle (170 KM of highway driving + 130 KM of city driving) I averaged 10.2 L/100 KM. That is not great, but not awful either. What makes the situation a little bit more expensive is the fact that all MINI models require at least 89 octane fuel, with 91 preferred – so filling up is dearer than you’d hope for.
Pricing: The 2019 MINI Countryman JCW is yours from $39,790 (plus freight, PDI, dealer fees and taxes) and my Midnight Black Edition tester had an extra $7,200 worth of options.
Verdict: For nearly $50,000 – a very well equipped Countryman JCW is not going to be the obvious choice for the masses. But, if you want to stand out from the crowd, and want something that is fun on those lonely country roads, than it might just be the vehicle for you!