Review
MINI JOHN COOPER WORKS COUNTRYMAN ALL4
We have already been introduced to the new MINI Countryman in detail in previous videos. For example, we have already taken care of the Cooper D and the Cooper SE Countryman ALL4. In this video we are introduced to the John Cooper Works Countryman. Not only an extremely sporty model, but also very adventurous, versatile and also suitable for off-road driving.
Most powerful engine
In this potent JCW we find a 2.0 liter turbo petrol engine with four cylinders. This block delivers 231 hp and has a max. torque of 350 Nm. This adventurous MINI sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in a smooth 6.5 seconds and has a top speed of 234 km/h. The MINI JCW Countryman is available with a manual gearbox (€ 39,450) or with a Steptronic sports automatic (€ 41,600) with eight gears. The Countryman JCW is equipped with ALL4 all-wheel drive as standard.
Original look
Our test car (see also video) was finished in Rebel Green, an optional color that you can only choose on the JCW. The roof and mirrors were colored in striking Chili Red and we also saw red, striking sporty stripes on the hood and flanks. This striking color combination appealed to us and it also underlined the sporty and adventurous character of this cool boy. The playful character of this MINI is emphasized by a matte black radiator grille with an inner edge for the radiator grille in Chili Red and a John Cooper Works logo.
In the interior, it is mainly the John Cooper Works sports seats in Dinamica/Carbon Black leather that steal the show. These not only look sleek, but provide support to the body during sporty rides without sacrificing comfort.
Racing expertise
The JCW not only offers a powerful engine with strong performance. This model is the result of a total package that was put together based on John Cooper Works racing expertise. The all-wheel drive was also optimized and the Countryman was equipped with a sports suspension with 18-inch rims and a Brembo braking system. The specific sports suspension was specially adjusted to take into account, among other things, the Countryman’s high power, long wheelbase and low center of gravity. In addition, certain elements of the bodywork were also optimized to improve, among other things, the aerodynamic properties.
Driving experience
Of all the Countryman models we have tested, the John Cooper Works is by far the nicest. This MINI moves quickly and, thanks to the four-wheel drive and sports suspension, it grips the road tightly. We are certainly fans of four-wheel drive on sports cars and on this Countryman with off-road ambitions that is certainly an extra asset. On bumpy roads, the JCW can feel a bit harder in sport mode, but that is certainly not a point of attention. The sound coming from the exhaust is comparable to other JCW models and we like it very much.
Room
There is enough space in the interior to transport five adults. In addition, there are also many storage options and the Countryman has a versatile suitcase. The rear seat is divisible and can be adjusted in length by up to 13 centimeters. The backrest is also adjustable in slope for more seating comfort or to create more storage space. You have a loading volume of 450 liters available in the suitcase, which can be expanded to a maximum of 1309 liters. If you want extra comfort, you can also opt for an optional Picnic Bench. This is a flexible surface that is folded out of the trunk and on which you can sit with 2 people.
Conclusion
The MINI Countryman JCW feels like a real JCW MINI in many ways. It sounds very sporty and moves smoothly. The ALL4 four-wheel drive ensures that the Countryman grips the road very tightly and goes smoothly through the bends. We also liked the appearance of this Countryman thanks to the original color Rebel Green in combination with red sporty stripes.
Additional images of the exterior and interior:
Additional recordings of the exhaust sound:
Johan De Haes
Test driver
