The 2022 MINI Countryman is delightfully perfect for city drivers, offering a compact footprint for easy parking, striking design accents, efficient engine options, and a suite of modern tech and safety features. Measuring just 4,312 mm in length and 1,717 mm in height, it strikes the ideal balance between interior space and urban agility. The Countryman’s boot capacity ranges from 460 L to 505 L depending on trim, making it surprisingly practical for grocery runs or weekend getaways.
Powered by either a 1.5 L three-cylinder or a punchy 2.0 L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, it achieves up to 33 mpg on the highway without compromising on spirited performance. Inside, the cabin blends premium materials with intuitive tech, including a large touchscreen supporting Apple CarPlay, while safety systems like forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking provide peace of mind in traffic.
Compact Design and Manoeuvrability
City streets can be tight, and parking spaces are often at a premium. At 4,312 mm long and with a wheelbase of 2,670 mm, the 2022 Countryman fits neatly into urban spots while still providing generous interior room. Its tight turning circle of 10.45 m allows effortless U-turns on narrow avenues, and the responsive electric power steering makes weaving through traffic feel intuitive and stress-free.
Stylish and Customisable Aesthetics
The Countryman wears its MINI heritage proudly, with round headlights, hexagonal grille, and contrasting roof colours that let drivers personalise their ride. Exterior options include classic British Racing Green, Solar Yellow, and Chili Red, each paired with contrasting roof and mirror caps for a bespoke look. Unique MINI Yours packages add premium paint finishes, larger alloy wheels, and exclusive interior trims, ensuring your Countryman stands out in any city neighbourhood.
Efficient Performance and Emissions
Urban driving often involves frequent stops and starts, making fuel economy crucial. The base 1.5 L three-cylinder petrol engine returns an EPA-rated 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, while the 2.0 L turbocharged S model manages 24/33 mpg city/highway. In Europe, the 1.5 L variant achieves 47.9 mpg imperial with CO₂ emissions of 134 g/km. The efficient powertrains, paired with MINI’s automatic start/stop and regenerative braking technologies, reduce both fuel costs and environmental impact.
Technology and Connectivity
A modern urban driver demands seamless connectivity. The Countryman’s central display spans up to 8.8 in and includes Apple CarPlay as standard; Android Auto is available via dealer retrofit. The available Harman Kardon audio system delivers premium sound for podcasts, playlists, or calls, while built-in navigation with real-time traffic updates keeps you on the fastest route through rush-hour gridlock. Wireless charging, USB-C ports in both front and rear, and an optional Wi-Fi hotspot ensure all devices stay powered and connected.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Navigating crowded streets demands vigilance and support. Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking help prevent or mitigate low-speed impacts, while optional adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist provide stress-free highway driving. Parking sensors front and rear, along with an optional 360° camera system, make tight city parking straightforward. The Countryman earned “Good” ratings across all crashworthiness tests from the IIHS, including small overlap and side impacts.
Comfort and Practicality
Despite its compact exterior, the Countryman doesn’t skimp on space. It comfortably seats five adults, with 460 L of boot space in Cooper and S trims, expanding to 1,390 L when rear seats fold flat. The 40/20/40 split-folding rear bench allows versatile cargo-passenger configurations, perfect for shopping trips or carrying sports equipment. Dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, and optional panoramic sunroof enhance cabin comfort, ensuring every journey is as relaxing as it is exhilarating.
Driving Dynamics & Fun Factor
True to MINI’s DNA, the Countryman is more fun than many rivals. Its MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension deliver a playful yet composed ride over city bumps. Cornering is sharp, thanks to precise steering and available all-wheel drive (ALL4) that adds traction in wet or uneven conditions. Even on narrow back streets, the Countryman feels agile and connected, proving that city driving doesn’t have to be dull.
Conclusion
For urbanites seeking a compact SUV that marries style, efficiency, and joy of driving, the 2022 MINI Countryman is delightfully perfect. Its clever packaging offers ample space without sacrificing manoeuvrability, while efficient engines and eco-friendly features keep running costs in check. Inside, advanced tech and safety systems cater to the needs of modern life, and the unmistakable MINI design ensures you arrive in style. Whether you’re commuting, shopping, or escaping the city on weekends, the Countryman stands out as a versatile, engaging choice.
