Is it any good?

The MINI Countryman John Cooper Works is a very likeable machine with plenty of personality and practicality wrapped up in compelling SUV package. It’s fast, it’s been very well assembled and it’s made from interesting, high-quality materials. The interior design is also attractive in a new and exciting way, and there’s no mistaking the exterior for another car, either.

For many buyers, this should be more than enough to seal the deal. However, we’ve got some reservations with the car that range from minor to major. Yes, this JCW model is immensely fun, but its ride is rather firm which will limit its usefulness if it’s your sole family wagon. The lack of physical interior controls is also bothersome, and the high boot lip dents the car’s pragmatism.

Still, the Countryman is a more interesting choice than many other family SUVs, you get plenty of standard kit and the pricing is more aggressive than you might expect. We look forward to testing it further once it’s arrived in the UK.