If you’re shopping for a compact SUV that stands out from the crowd, the 2025 Mini Countryman S All4 might just catch your eye. This isn’t your typical family hauler – it’s got personality, style, and some genuine practicality packed into a surprisingly capable package.
What Makes the Mini Countryman S All4 Special?
The Countryman S sits in the sweet spot of Mini’s lineup, offering more power than the base model without the premium price of the John Cooper Works version. At $61,990 for the Favoured trim, you’re getting a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 150kW of power and 300Nm of torque, paired with all-wheel drive that actually makes a difference.
Size and Space That Surprises
Don’t let the “Mini” badge fool you – this generation Countryman has grown up. At 4.4 meters long, it’s still compact enough for city parking but roomy enough for real-world use. The boxy design maximizes interior space, and even tall passengers will find decent room in the back seats.
The cargo area offers 505 liters with seats up, expanding to 1,530 liters when folded down. That’s genuinely useful space for weekend adventures or everyday errands. The sliding rear seats add flexibility – push them forward for more cargo or back for passenger comfort.
Interior Design: Bold or Too Much?
A Dashboard That Dares to Be Different
Step inside and you’ll immediately notice Mini hasn’t played it safe. The circular 9.4-inch OLED touchscreen dominates the dashboard, replacing traditional gauges and controls. While it takes some getting used to, the system responds quickly and includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The interior trim options range from conservative to vibrant. The test vehicle featured colorful accents and textured finishes that bring life to the cabin – a refreshing change from the black-on-black interiors dominating the market.
Practical Touches Where They Matter
Beyond the flashy design, Mini has included thoughtful storage solutions. Large door pockets, wireless phone charging, cupholders, and even a small covered bin help keep daily items organized. The only quirk? The center console serves as an armrest rather than storage space.
How Does It Drive?
Performance That Puts a Smile on Your Face
The turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers genuine enthusiasm. The all-wheel drive system helps put power down effectively, and the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission keeps things moving smoothly once you’re underway. Acceleration feels brisk and the engine note adds character, especially in the sportier driving modes.
However, like many dual-clutch transmissions, there’s some hesitation at low speeds and during parking maneuvers. It’s manageable but worth noting during test drives.
Handling vs Comfort: The Trade-Off
This is where the Countryman S shows its sporting intentions. The suspension is tuned for handling rather than comfort, resulting in excellent body control through corners but a firmer ride over rough surfaces. Those 19-inch wheels and low-profile tires don’t help ride quality on broken pavement.
Road noise is also more noticeable than in softer competitors. If you prioritize a quiet, cushioned ride for daily commuting, this might not be your ideal choice.
Safety and Technology Features
Top Safety Ratings Provide Peace of Mind
The 2025 Mini Countryman earned a five-star ANCAP safety rating, with strong scores across all categories. Seven airbags, advanced driver assistance systems, and solid crash protection make it a responsible choice for families.
Standard safety features include autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trim levels add parking assistance and surround-view cameras.
Infotainment That’s Love-It-or-Hate-It
The circular touchscreen is undeniably unique, offering multiple “Experiences” that change the display theme and even play different startup sounds. While creative, the interface can be overwhelming initially. Plan on spending time at the dealership learning the system if you buy one.
Ownership Costs and Practicality
What You’ll Pay Beyond the Purchase Price
The Countryman S requires premium fuel, and real-world consumption tends to be higher than the claimed 7.6L/100km figure. Expect around 10L/100km in mixed driving conditions.
Mini offers a five-year unlimited-kilometer warranty and three years of roadside assistance. Servicing follows a condition-based schedule averaging about $450 annually over five years through the capped-price servicing program.
One Notable Absence
There’s no spare wheel – just a tire repair kit. For some buyers, this could be a deal-breaker, especially if you venture off sealed roads regularly.
Who Should Consider the Mini Countryman S All4?
This vehicle appeals to drivers who want something different from the typical SUV formula. If you enjoy engaging driving experiences, appreciate distinctive design, and can accept a firmer ride for better handling, the Countryman S delivers genuine character.
It works well for small families, urban dwellers, and anyone who wants practical space without driving something that looks like every other SUV on the road.
However, if your priorities are maximum comfort, ultimate fuel efficiency, or the quietest cabin possible, other compact SUVs might better meet your needs.
The Mini Countryman S All4 isn’t trying to be everything to everyone – and that’s exactly why some people will love it. It offers genuine personality in a segment often dominated by bland appliances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Mini Countryman S All4 reliable for daily family use? A: Yes, the Countryman S offers practical space for small families with good safety ratings and a five-year warranty. The rear seats accommodate adults comfortably, and the boot space handles daily needs. However, the firmer suspension might not suit all family members on longer journeys.
Q: How does fuel economy compare to other compact SUVs? A: Real-world fuel consumption averages around 10L/100km, which is higher than some competitors. The requirement for premium fuel also increases running costs. If fuel efficiency is a priority, consider the hybrid variants or competitors with more efficient engines.
Q: What’s the main difference between the Countryman C and Countryman S? A: The S model adds a more powerful 2.0-liter engine (vs 1.5-liter in the C), all-wheel drive capability, and enhanced performance. You get 150kW of power versus 115kW, plus better traction in various driving conditions. The price difference is approximately $6,000-$8,000 depending on trim level.