Whether we like it or not, even niche automakers are expanding their lineups to appeal to a broader range of shoppers. This may seem like automotive blasphemy, but think back a few years ago when Porsche introduced the Cayenne. We all threw temper tantrums and hugged our 911s, but now we begrudgingly accept that, as far as SUVs go, the Cayenne is pretty damn good and has been the brand's #1 selling model since day one. So in comparison, adding the 2011 Countryman to the Mini lineup isn't nearly as big of a culture shock.
In an effort to show Mini owners and enthusiasts that the Countryman is indeed worthy of a Cooper badge, the automaker brought a few of the new crossovers out on its 2010 Mini Takes The States cross-country road rally. Mini is wholly confident that people will be impressed with what the Countryman has to offer, not only with functionality, but with driving dynamics, as well. We saddled up to find out for ourselves.
Before we get to the meat and potatoes, it's important to point out that the Countryman isn't as gargantuan as everyone seems to think. Compared to the smaller Clubman, the Countryman is six inches longer, 4.1 inches wider, 5.1 inches taller and rides on a 1.9-inch longer wheelbase. Yes, it's big – for a Mini – but the overall dimensions are close to that of the Nissan Versa, and we've never had trouble putting one of those in a compact-only parking space. Still, Mini purists can rest easy knowing that there aren't any plans to create larger versions of the Countryman anytime soon. We spoke extensively with Mini USA's vice president, Jim McDowell, and he assured us that this will be the biggest Mini that we'll see.
As far as design goes, you'd better get used to what you see on the Countryman, since the revised styling is likely to trickle down to the rest of the Mini range in the next few years. The front fascia ditches the cutesy appeal of the current Cooper in favor of a more aggressive, bulgy stance. Yes, it's snarling at you. Base Countryman models use a chrome-striped grille that's substantially less angry, and we think the majority of buyers will prefer this treatment. Not us, though, we grew to rather like the growling "don't call me fat" face of our Countryman S All4 tester, and if you want turbocharged power or all-wheel drive, you'd better grow to like it, too.
