Mini Countryman One Auto 5dr Car Review - March 2012

The power of this model is a little on the low side with a maximum output of just 98 bhp at 6000 rpm with torque figures 113 lb-ft at 3000 rpm. In total, the car manages to reach a top speed of just 104 mph and acceleration can feel a little sluggish with the car taking a fairly lengthy 13.9 seconds to travel from 0-62 mph.

In terms of driving comfort, the handling of this 4x4 is not as good as expected and there is a fair amount of body roll during corners and bends. The Mini therefore lacks the agility of its other models and this is a real disappointment for buyers. On top of this, the drive can feel fairly bumpy and the steering, whilst responsive, can feel uncomfortably heavy at times. In terms of engine noise, the car is only really quiet at low revs with the noise becoming louder as the speed increases. Wind and road noise can also be a problem at speed.

Appearances are one of the best attributes of Minis and the Countryman One Auto does not disappoint on this front. The overall style and design is inkeeping with the brand and this make it an attractive vehicle.

However, the interior equipment lacks some of the luxuries which many buyers expect and adding them will see costs mount up rather quickly.

Standard equipment includes power steering, central locking, stability control, air conditioning, electric door mirrors, electric front windows, rear parking sensors, an advanced stereo with CD and MP3 connectivity as well as Bluetooth connectivity.

Air conditioning can be upgraded to climate control for an additional £345 whilst alloy wheels, a leather interior, cruise control and a built-in sat nav can be added for £435, £1,250, £210 and £1,345 respectively.

Despite the drawbacks of this car the interior is fairly practical for its use. A higher driving position improves visibility for the driver and there is plenty of steering column and seat adjustment to ensure the highest level of comfort is attained. The dashboard is also more attractive than other Mini models although style has clearly been prioritised and this means it can take a while to learn how each of the controls work.

Cabin comfort varies in this model depending on the position of the seats and shoulder room in particular can be cramped. Passengers can either have ample leg room or decent storage capacity within the boot but unfortunately it is not possible to have both. With the seats in place the boot space is just 350 litres – making it fairly small for a 4x4. Folding the seats down expands this to 1,170 litres which is more than sufficient.

In terms of safety, the car comes fitted with driver, passenger and front side airbags all as standard features. On top of this an alarm and immobiliser are fitted as standard to protect the car from theft whilst a three year warranty on unlimited miles is provided to give buyers additional assurances.

Priced at £17,680 this car is far from cheap but still performs well within its class. Its prices almost match those of the Volkswagen Golf range and the carbon emissions and fuel economy of the Mini, whilst not as impressive as some may like, still outperform those of rivals.

In terms of efficiency, the car achieves an unimpressive 39.2 mpg on its combined cycle. Carbon emissions of 168 g/km also put the car’s green credentials at an all time low and this means that road tax costs will be fairly high.

One bonus for customers is that Minis are known for their good resale values and this means depreciation will be limited. The Mini even manages to hold its value better than the VW – something which is an attractive feature for buyers.