Introduction
The largest Mini--and the only one available with AWD--the 2013 Cooper Countryman blends the marque's unique styling with added versatility. Like other models in the lineup, the 2013 Countryman offers newly standard Bluetooth connectivity in lieu of satellite radio service. Other changes include new door-mounted controls that replace toggle switches located on the instrument panel--placement that may have been a bit confusing for first-time Mini drivers. A new 208-horsepower John Cooper Works (JCW) trim level debuts for 2013.
Exterior Features
In base guise, the 2013 Mini Cooper Countryman features standard 17-inch alloy wheels fitted with run-flat tires, roof rails, chrome grille, heated power-adjustable outside mirrors, and heated windshield washer nozzles. To this, the Cooper S Countryman adds a hood scoop, front brake ducts, upgraded performance suspension, black mesh grille insert, rear spoiler, dual exhaust tips, and fog lights.
The JCW version is differentiated by 18-inch alloy wheels, upgraded suspension, sport steering wheel, Brembo performance brakes, and a lower body kit.
Interior Features
Inside, the 2013 Mini Cooper Countryman features a height-adjustable driver's seat, leatherette upholstery, leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel with integrated audio controls, stainless steel foot pedals, push-button start, cooled glovebox, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 6-speaker sound system with HD Radio service and a USB port. Cooper S and JCW versions add front sport bucket seats, while the latter boasts unique trim.
Optional Features
Mini offers several factory upgrades for the Countryman lineup, including a JCW Interior package that fits the base and Cooper S variants with a sport steering wheel featuring red accent stitching, black-checkered dash, and unique door sills. An available JCW Exterior package sports checkered flag exterior accents, HID headlights, lower body kit, 18-inch alloy wheels, and white or black stripes.
Depending on which trim level is selected, Countryman buyers can also opt for a Cold Weather package comprised of heated mirrors, heated windshield washer nozzles, and heated front seats, as well as a Technology package featuring an upgraded sound system, infotainment system with a 6.5-inch display, and voice activation. An optional Premium package outfits the 2013 Countryman with a dual-pane power tilt/slide moonroof, automatic headlights, and automatic climate control, while a City Pack package equips the 4-door Countryman with heated power-folding outside mirrors, auto-dimming rearview mirrors, and rear park-assist sensors.
Under the Hood
Mini equips the base 2013 Cooper Countryman with a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine that delivers 121 horsepower and 114 lb.-ft. of torque, all directed to the front wheels via a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. A sport button allows drivers to increase the car's throttle and steering response.
Countryman S versions offer a bit more punch, courtesy of a turbocharged, direct-injection, 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine that generates 181 horsepower and 171 lb.-ft. of torque. Buyers have the choice of FWD or AWD capability (what Mini calls ALL4), and a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 6-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The JCW Countryman generates 208 horsepower and 207 lb.-ft. of torque from the same engine, can be fitted with the manual or automatic transmission, and is equipped with standard AWD.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy estimates for the 2013 Mini Countryman are:
- Countryman with manual transmission: 27/35/30 mpg (city/highway/combined)
- Countryman with automatic transmission: 25/30/27 mpg
- Countryman S with manual transmission: 26/32/29 mpg
- Countryman S with automatic transmission: 25/32/28 mpg
- Countryman ALL4 S and JCW with manual transmission: 25/31/27 mpg
- Countryman ALL4 S and JCW with automatic transmission: 23/30/26 mpg
Safety
The 2013 Mini Countryman's standard safety features include 7 air bags, 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, cornering brake control, traction control, and electronic brake-force distribution.
In tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the 2013 Mini Countryman received a "Good" rating--the Institute's highest--for moderate frontal-offset crash protection; the Countryman also received a "Top Safety Pick" designation from the Institute. As this preview is written, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has not rated the crashworthiness of the 2013 Mini Cooper Countryman.
