The MINI Cooper Countryman is the most affordable option in the Countryman range with the Cooper S and John Cooper Works ALL4 derivatives offering a host of additional features on top of the superior performance figures. This, however, should not let you shy away from experiencing just how much is on offer.
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MINI Connected
When specifying your MINI Countryman you are offered four different kinds of radio/infotainment systems starting with the standard radio which includes Bluetooth connectivity, basic telephony and Intelligent Emergency Call functionality. The next tier up comes in the form of MINI Connect Media which incorporates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as access to MINI Connected services and Connected Drive Services.
The system can be further enhanced by opting for either of the next to tiers; MINI Connected Navigation and MINI Connected Navigation Plus. The MINI Connected Navigation option bolsters the system by increasing the navigation screen to 6.5-inches and incorporating Apple CarPlay Preparation, natural language understanding and on-board navigation with map updates and real-time traffic information. The MINI Connected Navigation Plus further increases the navigation screen to 8.8-inches and adds wireless charging and telephony as well as MINI FindMate which is a clever gadget which can via Bluetooth help you locate personal goods by setting off an acoustic signal. All of this functionality is incorporated into the central infotainment screen where traditionally you would have found the instrument cluster.
Smooth transmission
The alternative to the standard 6-speed manual transmission is the impressive 7-speed Steptronic double-clutch automatic transmission. Not only do you benefit from the convenience of an automatic transmission but also the efficient speedy gear changes. Utilising a double-clutch configuration and two partial transmissions in a single housing, the gearbox is capable of using one gear while matching the next gear with the engine speed, this results in an almost seamless shift.
This configuration not only improves the efficiency in which the engine torque and power are used but also the smoothness between gear changes. When you visit the dealership, this is a key feature to pay attention to as it can provide more comfort and efficiency during the ownership period.
Luggage space
Although there are plenty of vehicles in this price point that can provide much more luggage space, the MINI Countryman manages to combine the driving characteristics and compact dimension of a normal vehicle with a large enough cabin environment to host five occupants and 450-litres of luggage space. Compared to the likes of the Audi Q2 which offers up 405-litres and the Volkswagen T-Roc which provides for 392-litres, the Countryman competes well within this segment. This is not where it ends, once you start folding flat the rear seats the luggage space further expands to 1390-litres, 153-litres more than the T-Roc and 340-litres more than the Q2.
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