Pre-owned MINI Countryman: what to know before you buy?
Many people forget, but the MINI Countryman has been with us since 2011. The biggest model in the range, often nicknamed the "Maxi MINI", it doesn't quite fit in with the brand's classic image, but that hasn't stopped it from being a great success.
With a third-generation MINI Countryman scheduled for 2025 (first deliveries in Canada start shortly), offering both a gasoline and a 100% electric variant, let's turn to the first two to enlighten consumers considering the purchase of a pre-owned MINI Countryman.
The choice of this model over other MINIs is obviously motivated by a greater need for space, comfort and versatility. The Countryman is even roomy enough to compete not only with compact hatchbacks like a Toyota Matrix, but also with sub-compact crossovers like a Honda HR-V. Depending on model year and rear seat position, its cargo volume ranges from 450-467 liters to 1169-1390 liters. Can it meet the needs of a small family? We answered this question in a previous article, which we invite you to read before continuing here.
Mechanically, the big advantage of this MINI is its all-wheel drive system, known as ALL4, not to mention the six-speed manual gearbox, which not only maximizes the pleasure of driving this big MINI, but even helps to lower fuel consumption compared to the automatic (at least the six-speed offered at the outset). By the way, super gasoline is required in all cases, unfortunately.
Available in base, S and John Cooper Works (JCW) versions, all with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder, the original Countryman offered 121, 181 and 208 hp respectively. Very disappointing in terms of performance, the first option was wisely eliminated for 2015, and you should write it off too. In the same year, a number of cosmetic changes were made (grille, headlights, bumper and taillights).
Strangely, MINI has brought back a basic Countryman - with only three cylinders! - by launching the second generation for the 2017 model year. Once again, power is drastically limited (134 hp) considering the vehicle's weight. Fortunately, all-wheel drive is now standard. As for the S and JCW versions, they've climbed to 189 and 228 hp, but it's the addition of a plug-in hybrid variant that has caught the eye. Named Countryman Cooper S E ALL4, its 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine is backed up by an electric motor for a total output of 221 hp. However, given its very short electric range (less than 30 km), choosing it as a used model today makes no sense at all.
For 2020, we should mention that the manual gearbox has been eliminated, leaving only the eight-speed automatic, while the Countryman JCW's power has jumped to 301 hp, transforming it into a veritable pocket rocket. A ton of adrenalin... if you can afford it. Expect to pay at least $36,000.
In conclusion, the ordinary reliability of MINI products has improved relatively in recent years, but caution is still called for. Avoid 2013 and earlier models wherever possible, make sure the model you're interested in has been well maintained, and insist on a full inspection. As far as recalls are concerned, there have been very few, and the issues raised have been fairly minor.
Enjoy your shopping!
