2017 MINI Countryman Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

The redesigned 2017 Mini Countryman has created a great deal of excitement. It has a fun-to-drive character that only a handful of compact crossovers can match. Not only does the new Countryman pack more style, but it also benefits from a larger cabin. Every trim comes loaded with plenty of modern features. Furthermore, an optional AWD system ensures good traction in snowy weather.

What’s New for 2017?

Mini decided to completely redesign the Countryman. It is now a more family-friendly vehicle.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2017 MINI Countryman – The Pros

1. Turbocharged Four-Cylinder Engines

With a total output of 134 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, the base 1.5L engine has enough muscle to keep the average driver happy. Nevertheless, the available 2.0L engine really cranks up the level of performance. It produces an impressive 189 horsepower, which enables you to pass slow-moving vehicles with ease.

2. Available Manual Transmission

A large percentage of Countryman buyers will opt for the automatic transmission. However, there are plenty of driving enthusiasts who will take advantage of the six-speed manual transmission. According to test drivers, the gear shifter feels especially sporty. By offering a manual gearbox, Mini was able to give the Countryman a huge advantage over some of its rivals.

3. Sharp Handling

When behind the wheel of the 2017 Mini Countryman, you are bound to fall in love with its balanced handling. It feels remarkably nimble and athletic. It is the perfect crossover for the drivers who are looking for an alternative to a sports sedan. An optional adaptive suspension system enables you to fine-tune the Countryman’s driving dynamics.

4. Good on Gas

If fuel economy is a major concern, the 2017 Mini Countryman deserves some serious consideration. It is far more efficient than the typical SUV. You can look forward to getting 25 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the open highway. Because of the crossover’s fuel savings, it is a great choice for everyday commuting.

5. High-Performance John Cooper Works Model

The John Cooper Works version is for the drivers who demand a higher level of performance. Its racy engine pumps out an exciting 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. A lot of drivers will be lured by the additional power under the hood. However, the high-performance model also benefits from a specially tuned suspension and upgraded tires.

6. Good Vehicle for the Snow

Front-wheel drive comes standard on the 2017 Mini Countryman. Fortunately for the folks who live in a snow-prone area, an AWD package is optional. You will be able to tackle wintry weather without sacrificing a great deal of fuel economy. While the Countryman sits lower to the ground than some SUVs, it will still outperform an AWD sedan in the snow.

7. Eye-Catching Appearance

Distinctive styling pushes the Mini Countryman further ahead of the pack. At first glance, some people are bound to mistake the Countryman for a hatchback. Unique headlights and a signature grille help it to stand out on the road. A dynamic body kit makes the John Cooper Works edition look especially aggressive. Some of the cool exterior colors include Chestnut, Island Blue, and British Racing green.

8. More Passenger Room

Families will certainly appreciate the crossover’s roomier design. A longer wheelbase helped to free up more space in its cabin. With nearly 38 inches of rear-seat legroom, the 2017 Mini Countryman easily outclasses some of its main competitors. The extra freedom makes the Countryman a worthy vehicle for taking your family on a fun road trip.

9. Snazzy Interior Styling

On the inside, the Countryman packs a lot of flair. Cool touches, such as the stylish center stack, will immediately catch your attention. You can also customize the cabin with special upholstery and unique interior trim. Ambient lighting makes the crossover even more fun to drive at night.

10. Comes Well-Equipped

You don’t have to choose the top-of-the-line trim in order to receive a lot of features. Unlike most of its competition, the Countryman comes standard with a panoramic sunroof. Some of the other goodies include a 6.5-inch infotainment screen, a backup camera, and Bluetooth technology. Prices for the 2017 Mini Countryman start at around $26,000.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2017 MINI Countryman – The Cons

1. Requires Premium Fuel

This crossover is actually more fuel-efficient than some compact sedans. Unfortunately, Mini recommends that drivers fill the Countryman with premium fuel. With the cost of high-octane fuel being so expensive, some drivers may not be willing to fork over the extra money.

2. Some Trims Are Pricey

The Countryman is a bit more expensive than the average crossover in its class. The mid-level Countryman S will cost at least $29,000. Meanwhile, expect to shell out even more cash for the high-output John Cooper Works version.

3. Not Rugged Enough for Off-Road Adventures

Don’t plan to take the 2017 Mini Countryman on a hardcore adventure. It is not engineered to withstand rough conditions. Mini does not offer rugged upgrades such as skid plates and all-terrain tires. If you love to travel off-road, take a good look at the Jeep Renegade Trailhawk.

How it stacks up to the competition:

Some of the key rivals include the 2017 Audi Q3 and the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA250. In terms of roominess, the Mini Countryman has a clear advantage over these European rivals. It provides more legroom for your backseat passengers and offers a greater amount of cargo space.

Conclusion:

For good reason, a lot of drivers are eagerly waiting for their chance to test drive the new 2017 Mini Countryman. Its improved passenger room makes it more appealing than the previous generation. When it comes to overall driving excitement, the Mini Countryman continues to stand out from the crowd. Although you will need to burn premium gas, the crossover’s efficient design will still help you to save at the fuel pump.