In-depth reviews

MINI Countryman SUV (2016–2023) review: owner reviews

"The MINI Countryman is a fun and stylish family car that’s also practical and economical"

14 Mar 2023

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Carbuyer Rating

4.1 out of 5

Owners Rating

3.7 out of 5

Reviews

Owner Reviews

5 out of 5
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2 out of 5
1 out of 5

67%of people would recommend this car to a friend

Common Problems

Engine (1 case)
Electrics, Suspension, Other (1 case)

Review 1 of 6

Tell us what you think about your car?

Overall a very good sturdy car with a great auto gearbox. I haven't had a problem yet. The countryman is a very practical tool; that has nice controls, access and comfort - along with premium feel. The interior, sound insulation, material quality, construction quality and application are all excellent. As are the driving dynamics and handling. It has good fuel consumption and the auto gear shifts are smooth. The steering is very sharp and the ride is quiet and comfortable on long journeys. The ambience of the interior is wonderful and spacious. The multimedia system and controls are the best I've ever used. There are some negatives though: the quality of the seat material is good but not ergonomic. The air conditioner heats or cools; no more. The exterior paint quality I've found to be poor, as is the headlight lighting and the wipers are noisy. In conclusion: I am very satisfied!

Would you recommend the car to a friend?

Yes Green thumbs up

Tell us what you think about your car?

I bought this car at 3 years old with a full BMW service history and only 30k on the clock. I have had nothing but problems since then. Firstly, within 6 months the timing belt failed and needed replacing, then I had an EGR problem that required a new valve, then a further gas recirculation problem and finally this morning I have the 'death rattle' and am told that I will need a new engine or substantial rebuild. The car doesn't even have 60k miles on the clock. I have never owned a car as unreliable as this Countryman. While my wife loves the look and feel of this car, I would advise anyone to think twice before investing in a MINI.

Would you recommend the car to a friend?

No Red thumbs down

Tell us what you think about your car?

Best MINI ever! The new 7 speed auto is fantastic and build quality is outstanding. The BMW influence is really beginning to shine through. Apple CarPlay and touch screen nav operation are seamless. The ride is pleasantly firm yet comfortable and the road holding is confident and assured. Inside the car is quiet when driving but there is tyre noise at motorway speed. Great internal layout and controls.

Would you recommend the car to a friend?

Yes Green thumbs up

Tell us what you think about your car?

Handy ride height and looks alright but that's about all that's good. Since getting mine I've had horrible problems with stop/start - it keeps cutting out and not starting when it should. The workshop had it for three days to get the ventilation fan repaired as it only worked on full blast. The air-con has now failed completely (a year later) and blow strength is terrible. The tadio system is terrible. You can't play media through Bluetooth, the DAB radio always losing reception and the central locking remote is very weak. It also has a very uncomfortable ride in the back.

Would you recommend the car to a friend?

No Red thumbs down

Tell us what you think about your car?

The car has been fairly reliable , i have had no issues in the last 3 years. When i bought it though the rear shocks were worn (dampers)! Since then i have had normal wear (only replaced tyres and brake pads) discs are still original. I do maintenance myself, this to me means oil changes are done the correct way, this engine is known for having problems (timing chain), if you don't monitor your oil consumption ( about 1L/5000km ). The Automatic is maintenance free, don't believe this I recommend every 6/7 years to have fluids changed and flushed by a specialist (not me). I also had it chiptuned, and since then i'm happy with its performance :-) The car is much bigger inside than you'd imagine, it's practical drives quite good for its ridiculous heavy weight! (1550Kg).

Would you recommend the car to a friend?

Yes Green thumbs up

Tell us what you think about your car?

Inspires confidence and great fun to drive. Well thought out cabin architecture and quality is excellent. Ride can be harsh at times. Rear access hindered by relatively short doors and limited opening. Have to move front seats forward to put in and take out child seat but otherwise rear room is adequate.

What's the one thing you like most about your car?

Driving it: never fails to make me smile especially driving on country roads.

If you could improve one thing, what would it be?

Ride quality (suspension is on firm side)

Would you recommend the car to a friend?

Yes Green thumbs up