2020 MINI Countryman Review

The second-gen Mini Countryman has been on sale for a few years, and Mini has given it a number of rolling updates and changes over the past few years. Now, for 2020, Mini is at it again. Major updates include a more powerful engine in the John Cooper Works performance model (now a stout 301 horsepower) and a larger battery in the Cooper S E plug-in hybrid that increases the all-electric range.

There's also a new seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that's standard in front-wheel-drive Cooper models. Yet Mini enthusiasts might be more keen on what's missing for 2020: a manual transmission. One is no longer available on any Countryman variant. We doubt many Countryman buyers got the manual in the past, but it was one element that helped the Countryman stand out compared to more mundane crossover SUVs.

Visually, the Countryman remains relatively unchanged, though new standard LED lighting gives the crossover a more premium look. The overall design is still distinctly Mini, with a clear connection to both current and classic Mini models. Mini has simplified the Countryman's extensive options list into trims and packages. It makes it easier to see what models come with which features, but shoppers looking to personalize their Countryman might be disappointed by the change.

The 2020 Countryman remains a relatively fun-to-drive crossover SUV, especially in John Cooper Works trim. It wins on charm and a premium feel that few other vehicles in this size or class can match. But the trade-offs — not a whole lot of cargo space and premium pricing — are significant.

What's it like to live with the Countryman?

The experts at Edmunds acquired a Mini Countryman and drove it more than 14,000 miles during a long-term test. The test vehicle was a plug-in Countryman S E Hybrid model, meaning it could run on electric power before switching to the gasoline engine. Editors praised its quick acceleration and entertaining handling. But it wasn't all smooth sailing.

One important note is that we tested a 2018 model, and the 2020 version has an upgraded battery that provides more EV-only range. Most of our observations still apply to the Countryman in general, though. Read our long-term Countryman test to see how the Countryman S E Hybrid fared before buying one for yourself.

The 2020 Mini Countryman is a sporty, fun alternative to the standard set of small crossovers and wagons. The Countryman earns its premium price tag by offering a healthy list of standard features. All four models — Cooper, Cooper S, John Cooper Works and Cooper S E — have similar feature content but are differentiated by the engines underhood. From there, buyers choose among three trim levels (Classic, Signature and Iconic) with an increasing number of features.