The MINI JCW Countryman ALL4 (2025) has grown up, become more practical, digitalized and faster – but it hasn't lost what has always set MINI apart. Charisma. Style. And a little bit of madness.
Let me say it right away: MINI JCW Countryman ALL4 (2025) It's not a perfect car. But it's one of the few cars that still has it today. some senseEspecially in the context that it comes from a concern BMW – where in recent years too many models have tried to be everything to everyone, but ended up without an identity. The Countryman dares to have character. And a bold, likeable and useful character at that.
What follows is not a test record. More of a confession. Perhaps even a slightly enthusiastic love letter to a car that is really what every modern “lifestyle SUV” should be: practical, fun, technically advanced and just the right amount of individuality.
Basic Facts: Under the Hood MINI Countryman ALL4 (2025) hides an impressive 2.0-liter four-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine that develops 221 kW or 300 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque. Acceleration is fierce, and the top speed is as much as 250 km/h – enough to easily pull into the left lane of a German motorway, although you will probably enjoy the bends of a nearby country road most of the time. ALL4 drive (four-wheel drive, of course) ensures optimal traction and stability in all conditions – be it a slippery road, a gravel path or just an aggressive city curb. Compared to the previous generation, the new Countryman has gained an additional 13 centimeters in length and 8 in height, which means more space for everything – from legs to luggage. The rear bench can be moved by 13 centimeters and can be folded, increasing the trunk from the basic 450 to as much as 1,460 liters. The interior, however, is given an additional feeling of spaciousness and light with the glazed panoramic roof. The result? Comfort and practicality, without the MINI losing its sporty soul.
1. Bigger than ever before, but still MINI
With a length of 4.4 meters and a width of 1.8 meters, the new Countryman has grown considerably. This means plenty of space in the back seat, better visibility and a really useful trunk. But in terms of design? It's still a MINI. Boxy, confident, with that British charm that no one else can convey so well. It looks like a MINI that goes to the gym and now has the confidence to invite you for a drink. And it works.
2. Not just “fast for a MINI” – just fast.
The MINI JCW Countryman ALL4 has 233 kW and 400 Nm of torque under the hood, via an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. That means acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds. And more importantly – the feeling is right. When you push, it goes. With grip, with determination. The sound? Yes, in sport mode it is artificially emphasized and perhaps a little too “gaming”, but hey – it works. And you quickly get used to it.
3. OLED infotainment screen: a circle that steals your view
In the middle of the dashboard sits a 9.4-inch circular OLED display – the first of its kind in the world. And it’s not just there for decoration. It’s the heart of the cabin. It runs on Android, with elegant animations and intuitive menus. Soundscapes, visual themes, different ambiances… It all works like a digital work of art, turning each driving mode into its own little world. MINI has done something bold here – and it’s absolutely right.
4. Go-Kart mode: childish and ingenious at the same time
When you switch to Go-Kart mode, everything changes – the responsiveness of the accelerator, the stiffness of the chassis, the steering wheel behavior, and even the interface design. The sound effects add the finishing touch. Is it completely non-functional? Yes. Is it fun? Absolutely. In a world where everyone is trying to be calm and mature, it’s refreshing to have a car that dares to be playful.
5. Eight driving modes for every mood
Countryman offers eight different “experience” modes – each with its own lighting, sound and driving identity. From “Balance”, which is calming and relaxing, to “Trail”, which prepares the vehicle for muddy and uneven surfaces. Each mode offers something unique, even if you’re just driving to the nearest bakery. And yes, even “Green” mode doesn’t feel like a punishment because it’s all so nicely integrated.
6. An interior that is tangible without being pretentious
There are no cheap carbon fiber imitations inside. There is no fake sportiness. Instead, you get a combination of recycled fabrics, Alcantara, metal details and smart design solutions. It all works like an urban lounge with a feel – a little hipster, but without exaggeration. And the floating center console offers extra space for everything we carry with us these days – bottles, cables, frustrations…
7. It still drives like a MINI
Despite its size and SUV proportions, the Countryman still drives like a MINI. The steering is precise, the chassis is balanced, and the ALL4 system provides exceptional traction. On winding roads, it doesn't lose its sense of compactness - it has that familiar MINI effect: it suddenly shrinks around you and becomes one with you. A rarity in this segment.
8. Practical. Yes, really.
The boot, with its 460 litres of capacity, is quite competitive, and with the second bench folded down it offers 1,450 litres. It's not just big – it's useful. Low loading lip, wide opening, and enough space for a weekend getaway, a canine companion or some retail therapy. The rear bench is no longer a compromise either – adults can sit here. Even comfortably.
9. Comfort we didn't expect from MINI
MINI used to mean sportiness with a price – a stiff, bouncy chassis that only impressed on smooth asphalt. The new Countryman with adaptive suspension surprises. In normal modes, it is quiet, comfortable and soft. Even on poor roads, it remains sovereign. The first MINI that you can take on a long trip without a visit to the chiropractor.
10. It still has that MINI factor
What sets it apart from the rest is precisely that – that it’s different. Union Jack taillights, bold colours (Legend Grey! Blazing Blue!), bold design. This is not a car that wants to please everyone. And that’s its charm. MINI stays true to itself. And in a time when most are playing it safe, that means everything.
Conclusion: The only “BMW” that dares to have personality
MINI Countryman ALL4 is one of those rare cars that gets under your skin. It's not perfect, but it's extremely good. And most importantly – it has sense. For every day, for pleasure, for life. If I had to choose one car in BMW's range that really stands out, it's this one. Everything else is somewhere between competent and boring.
This MINI... well, this MINI has character. And that's (still) what counts most.
