MINI Countryman 2024 review
Photo: Alexander-93 (CC BY-SA 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The MINI Countryman grew up for 2024, and it shows. The third-generation model is longer, roomier and far more grown-up than the cheeky original, yet it still carries the MINI charm that has made the brand a British favourite. Starting at £29,000, the entry C 1.5-litre petrol brings 170hp, a slick dual-clutch automatic and genuine five-adult practicality.
That growth spurt pays dividends inside. Rear legroom is now properly generous, the boot holds 450 litres, and the circular OLED display dominating the dashboard is a design triumph that also works well, running MINI’s latest infotainment with crisp graphics and over-the-air updates. Build quality feels a class above the price, with soft-touch materials and that familiar bank of toggle switches.
On the road, the Countryman strikes a neat balance between MINI agility and family-SUV comfort. The 1.5 turbo triple is eager and refined, returning a claimed 46.3mpg, while the taller stance and optional ALL4 all-wheel drive add all-weather confidence. It is pricier than a Nissan Qashqai, but nothing else in the class delivers this much personality with its practicality.
UK price from: £29,000
Specifications
| Engine | 1.5-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder petrol |
| Power | 170PS |
| 0-60 mph | 8.3 seconds |
| Top speed | 132 mph |
| Fuel economy | 46.3 mpg (WLTP combined) |
| CO2 | 138 g/km |
| Boot space | 450 litres |
| Length | 4,433 mm |
| Transmission | 7-speed dual-clutch automatic |
| Drive | Front-wheel drive |
Features
- 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine
- 9.4-inch circular OLED central display
- MINI Operating System 9 with over-the-air updates
- Dual-zone climate control and heated front seats
- Power tailgate with 450-litre boot
- Adaptive cruise control with lane guidance
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Optional ALL4 all-wheel drive on higher trims
Common parts & prices
| Part | Price (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Front brake pads | £54.99 | OEM-spec pads for the C 1.5; bedding-in recommended for the first 200 miles. |
| Cabin pollen filter | £18.99 | Activated-carbon filter behind the glovebox; change annually for clear air. |
| Wiper blades (pair) | £24.99 | Flat blades sized for the Countryman screen; clip-fit in minutes. |
| 12V battery | £119.99 | AGM battery for models with brake-energy regeneration; register after fitting. |
| Air filter | £22.99 | Engine air filter; keeps the turbo triple breathing cleanly. |
| Spark plugs (set of 3) | £29.99 | Iridium plugs for the 1.5 triple; replace around 60,000 miles. |
Pros
- Distinctive design with genuine MINI character
- Class-leading cabin tech and build quality
- Spacious rear seats and a properly usable boot
- Refined, punchy 1.5 turbo engine
Cons
- Pricier than mainstream rivals like the Qashqai
- Firm ride on larger alloy wheels
- Some options are expensive to add
- Rear visibility hampered by thick pillars
