2012 MINI Cooper Countryman Wagon Crossover

Summary

Provided by NADAguides.com

The 2012 MINI Cooper Countryman is a compact four door crossover version of the MINI cooper offered in standard, S, and ALL4 trim levels. The standard FWD Cooper Countryman is powered by a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 121 hp and 114 lb-ft of torque while the Cooper Countryman S comes equipped with a turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 181 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque. The Cooper S Countryman ALL4 trim has all the same features as the Countryman S with the addition of all-wheel-drive. A 6-speed manual comes standard on both trims but drivers also have the choice of an optional 6-speed automatic. The standard Cooper Countryman gets an EPA estimated 27 mpg city and 35 mpg highway. Features include HD radio, adaptive xenon headlamps, performance suspension, fully electronic throttle, and the MINI center-mounted speedometer. Safety is comprised of dynamic stability control, dynamic traction control, park distance control, anti-lock brake security, and an ultra rigid body. The Cooper Countryman is backed by a 4-year/50,000-mile warranty.

Benefits of Driving a 2012 MINI Cooper Countryman Wagon Crossover

The 2012 MINI Cooper Countryman is a tall (for a MINI), rugged 4-door model that represents the automaker's venture into crossover vehicles. The Countryman is also the first MINI to offer all-wheel drive and the first model from the brand to offer adaptive headlamps. With four doors, the Countryman also offers a little more passenger versatility than the MINI Cooper models, while the brand's reputation assures they are more nimble, eager-feeling alternatives to other larger crossover vehicles. Its interior is also more versatile and spacious, with textured-grain surfaces and trim details, plus cargo solutions including the customizable Center Rail system that allows for four passengers, or a new rear bench seat that allows for five. With the added value, the Countryman has a starting price that isn't much higher than that of the MINI Cooper.

What's new for 2012?

Following its introduction in 2011, the 2012 Countryman sees only minor changes, and they are aimed at making the car more user-friendly. Chief among them is a rear bench seat option, which expands occupancy to five passengers. A new Technology package includes a center armrest, Park Distance Control, a harman/kardon sound system and either MINI Connected or MINI Connected with Navigation. Other packages have been reshuffled as well.

Model Strengths

Responsive, nimble driving feel
all-wheel drive
excellent fuel economy
more cargo-friendly interior
higher seating position
available tech features and accessories

Model Review

The 2012 MINI Countryman includes three models: MINI Cooper Countryman, Cooper S Countryman and Cooper S Countryman with 'ALL4' all-wheel drive. The Countryman includes a 121-horsepower, 1.6L 4-cylinder engine that can help the MINI reach 60 mph in 9.8 seconds; the Countryman S gets a 181-hp turbocharged version of the 1.6L that's capable of getting to 60 mph in 7.4 seconds. Yet both engines are very fuel efficient: EPA ratings for the base Countryman are 27 mpg city, 35 highway.

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