18/04/2025

2025 MINI Countryman S ALL4 review bigger bolder but is it still fun to drive 2025 MINI Countryman S ALL4 review bigger bolder but is it still fun to drive

The automotive industry is no stranger to reinvention, but few brands have modernized their lineup as daringly as MINI has with the 2025 Countryman S ALL4. Once known for pint-sized charm and spirited driving, MINI now stretches the boundaries of its identity with a bigger, bolder compact SUV. But does the new Countryman S ALL4 deliver on the MINI promise of style and performance—or is it trying too hard to be something it’s not?

In this comprehensive review, we take a deep dive into the 2025 MINI Countryman S ALL4, assessing its design evolution, performance metrics, technological features, and interior upgrades. Whether you’re a dedicated car enthusiast or an auto dealer in search of the next standout model, this vehicle demands a closer look.

Bold by Design: Styling That Stands Out

MINI’s latest iteration of the Countryman stretches beyond its traditional boundaries—literally. The 2025 model is now over 5 inches longer and more than 2 inches taller than its predecessor.

Dimensions: Length: approx. 174.5 inches | Width: 71.7 inches | Height: 65.6 inches
Wheelbase: Up to 106 inches

The updated model boasts more muscular proportions and squared-off lines, giving it a crossover-like presence that closely aligns with contemporary compact SUVs. The classic rounded headlights remain, but the front end now incorporates a hexagonal grille that leans into traditional MINI aesthetics—with an edge. The modernized rear fascia and flush fitment of glass panels give it a sleeker, more premium silhouette.

Performance: AWD Confidence with Punchy Power

Under the hood, the Countryman S ALL4 delivers a solid performance characteristic of the brand’s sporty DNA. Powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, it produces:

Horsepower: 241 hp
Torque: 295 lb-ft
0-60 mph: Approx. 5.9 seconds

This power is sent through a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission to MINI’s ALL4 all-wheel-drive system, designed to provide more traction on slippery surfaces and better handling in inclement weather.

However, despite these impressive numbers, the Countryman S ALL4 isn’t entirely without flaws. During recent test drives, reviewers noted a laggy throttle response during acceleration and less engaging dynamics compared to earlier MINI iterations. The steering still retains its precision, but enthusiasts may find the ride comfort too soft for spirited cornering.

Ride and Handling: A Softer MINI Experience

Gone are the famously “go-kart-like” days of MINI handling. This new Countryman trades athletic tossability for a more relaxed, cushioned ride. That’s both a good and bad thing:

Pro: More comfortable for long drives and urban commuting
Con: Reduced road feel and less immediate driver feedback

Handling is still competent thanks to the AWD system and finely tuned chassis, but the MINI of today feels more like a luxury urban cruiser than a back-road rocket.

Tech & Connectivity: Mixed Results in the Digital Transition

MINI’s 2025 Countryman introduces a bold centerpiece to the cabin: a round 9.4-inch OLED infotainment display. This futuristic screen handles everything from navigation to entertainment and driving data. It’s a daring leap into digital minimalism but comes with caveats.

Infotainment Experience

Display: Center-mounted, high-contrast OLED technology
Companion System: MINI Operating System 9, built on Android
Connectivity: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support

Despite its stylish aesthetics, the system has raised eyebrows for frequent lag and occasional unresponsiveness, particularly when executing rapid command inputs or multitasking through apps. Such glitches in a premium vehicle at this price point don’t go unnoticed—especially by tech-savvy car buyers.

Interior Innovation: Premium but Polarizing

Step inside, and the 2025 Countryman S ALL4 greets you with a futuristic yet warm interior design language. Vibrant textile panels, a floating dashboard, and toggle-style controls pay homage to MINI’s adventurous spirit while incorporating premium materials and soft-touch surfaces.

Cabin Features

Seating: Ample passenger space with reclining second-row seats
Cargo capacity: Up to 51.2 cubic feet with rear seats folded
Ambient lighting: Configurable RGB mood settings integrated into the cabin trim

Space is no longer a premium in the Countryman—rear passengers enjoy generous legroom, and loading large items is no longer a compact-car compromise.

Driver Assistance and Safety Suite

MINI has outfitted the 2025 Countryman S ALL4 with a comprehensive array of driver-assistance features. These systems aim to enhance driving confidence while maintaining the driver-first ethos MINI champions.

Safety Technologies

Forward collision warning
Automatic emergency braking
Lane departure warning and optional lane-keeping assist
Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability

Though not class-leading, these assets bring MINI in line with competitors like the Audi Q3, Volvo XC40, and BMW X1—vehicles that longtime MINI fans may now be cross-shopping.

Is Bigger Really Better? A Look at Market Positioning

With the 2025 Countryman, MINI is aiming to capture a wider market, targeting buyers seeking a mix of design-forward style, daily practicality, and light off-road capability. But this move comes at the risk of alienating brand purists who champion light, agile, and overtly playful cars.

That said, automotive dealers may find an expansive market for the new Countryman’s broader appeal. It bridges multiple segments:

Luxury Subcompact Crossovers – Competes with Audi Q3, Mercedes-Benz GLA
Urban AWD SUVs – Appeals to Subaru Crosstrek and Mazda CX-50 fans
Car-Sharing or Fleet Buyers – Eye-catching design, premium appeal

In the right positioning, the new Countryman could prove extremely attractive in bustling metro areas as well as adventure-hungry regions with rougher climates.

Final Thoughts: A Bold Move into a Wider World

The 2025 MINI Countryman S ALL4 is a fusion of heritage and evolution. MINI has gracefully matured its largest model into an approachable yet distinctive crossover for modern audiences. While some quirks—such as the laggy infotainment and softened dynamics—may deter die-hard fans, there’s no denying that this reborn Countryman carves out a confident space in a crowded market.

Its standout design, generous space, and respectable power figures make it particularly attractive to younger buyers upgrading from subcompacts or older MINIs. On the dealer side, its quirky-but-premium proposition should deliver strong showroom appeal.

If MINI can refine the software experience in future updates and sharpen the driving interface just a touch, the Countryman S ALL4 may finally be the model that balances personality and practicality—with a bit more polish.

Want to sell, buy, or export your car? ENON Cars is simple and perfect for you! Join now and get three free ads as a new user. Post your ads easily and find buyers or sellers fast!