Review MINI Countryman hatchback

"The biggest MINI yet is still undoubtedly a MINI, boasting a fun driving experience and stylish retro cabin. It's still not the most practical crossover in the world, though." The Countryman is the first four-door MINI and aims to offer increased practicality without diluting any of the fun associated with the MINI brand. Overall it's a great success, with fantastic handling and a stylish and luxurious cabin. Our only gripes concern the boot – it's big compared to a standard MINI, but crossover rivals offer more space – and the high asking price. Drive4.6 /5 Secure handling, with a good driving position Like all MINIs, the Countryman is great fun to drive. The high driving position gives a good view of the road, and there's very little body roll in corners. However, the stiff chassis means the Countryman isn't as comfortable as the Skoda Yeti, for example. All engines feel willing and up to the task, and the flagship 184bhp Cooper S version is capable of 0-62mph in less than eight seconds. While a new diesel flagship, the Cooper SD, provides the best blend of pace and low running costs. Comfort3.8 /5 The suspension is firm compared to rivals The retro front seats are comfortable over short distances, but as they're quite hard, longer journeys can become uncomfortable and offer little support. Rear passengers have plenty of space, but factor in the firm ride and excessive road noise, and there are better alternatives for buyers looking for a relaxing way to cover the miles. The interior layout is familiar MINI territory, and the majority of switches and levers are well located and have a quality feel. Reliability4.5 /5 Reliability should be up to MINI standards and safety is good The Countryman uses tried and tested engineering from elsewhere in the MINI range, so buyers are unlikely to find anything that goes wrong. The model performed well in the Euro NCAP safety test, scoring a full five-stars. Practicality4.5 /5 It's the most practical MINI by far The sliding back seats provide plenty of leg and head room. Buyers can either add a third seat in the back or add a rail system, which can be fitted with a range of sliding cupholders, sun glasses cases or iPad holder attachments. With the rear seats folded, the Countryman provides a decent 1,170-litre load carrying area and has a clever sliding false floor. The four doors, high ride height and high roofline all combine to make this the most practical MINI yet. Value for money4.0 /5 Competitively priced, but extras are expensive Entry level models are great value, but the cost of extras can send the purchase price spiralling. All models coming with air-conditioning and a CD audio system as standard. High demand for the Countryman means very few discounts are available. We would recommend adding the Chili pack to any model, as this upgrades the standard equipment to include automatic air-con, xenon headlights and sports seats. It adds around £3,000 to the list price though. Running costs4.5 /5 Efficient engines mean low running costs Diesel engined One D and Cooper D models return 64.2mpg, thanks in part to the use of stop/start technology that cuts the engine when the car is stopped and in neutral. No version qualifies for free Road Tax, but the diesels cost £30 per year, while the petrols are £110 and £125 respectively. Overall running costs are low, and MINI's TLC package, which gives you three free services within five years or 50,000 miles for only £200, is definitely worth having.