If you think Mini and immediately conjure up Mr. Bean’s iconic green go-kart, your image of this brand might be a little… well, mini. Enter the Mini Countryman S – a car that stretches the term ‘mini’ almost as much as South Africans stretch the phrase ‘just now’. It’s bigger, bolder, and infinitely more versatile than Mr. Bean’s cheeky little runabout, but thankfully, it retains that mischievous charm.
Funky meets functional
The Mini Countryman S looks like it bulked up on pap-en-braai but never lost its funky personality. It’s unmistakably Mini, with a slightly more rectangular take on those signature bug-eyed headlights, cheeky grille, and playful proportions. The black body cladding, optional roof rails, and raised ride height make it feel at home on both gravel roads and urban pavements.
South African buyers will appreciate the practicality baked into its design. Its compact footprint means it’s easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces, but the added height and bold stance let it tackle potholes, speed bumps, and the occasional pavement parking challenge with ease. The two-tone paint options – think contrasting roof and mirror caps – allow you to personalise it to match your personality, while the Union Jack-inspired taillights add a touch of British flair.
Zippy with a dash of sass
This is where the Countryman S truly shines. Its 2.0-litre turbocharged engine delivers 141kW and 280Nm of torque, which, for a Mini, feels properly brisk. It may not have the bonkers power of the John Cooper Works (JCW) variant, but the S hits the sweet spot: quick enough to make overtaking effortless yet composed enough for urban cruising.
Behind the wheel, the Countryman S delivers on Mini’s promise of go-kart handling. The steering is razor-sharp and responsive – so sharp, in fact, that you’ll find yourself diving into corners just for the thrill of it. It’s a playful experience, and while the ride is firmer than some SUVs, it never strays into uncomfortable territory.
With its ALL4 all-wheel drive option, the S is surprisingly capable on gravel roads, perfect for a trip to the Drakensberg or your favourite game reserve.
Playful yet premium
The cabin of the Countryman is a delightful blend of fun and sophistication. The centrepiece is the circular infotainment screen, surrounded by an LED ring that changes colour based on your actions – shift gears enthusiastically, and it lights up to cheer you on. The system is intuitive, with Apple CarPlay for seamless connectivity.
Traditional Mini toggle switches give the dash a retro vibe, while the ambient lighting adds a modern touch, perfect for setting the mood on a late-night drive. The materials are high-quality, with soft-touch surfaces and optional leather upholstery for a more upscale feel.
Space is another highlight. The Countryman S comfortably accommodates four adults, with rear seats that recline and slide to customise legroom. The 450-litre boot is generous for a car of this size, ideal for weekend getaways or the inevitable grocery run.
Mr. Bean might have had to strap an armchair to the roof for cargo space, but the Countryman lets you pack the lot – and still squeeze in a few friends.
The verdict
The Mini Countryman S is the car for those who want a bit of flair in their daily drive. It’s cheeky, quick, and loaded with personality. It’s as if Mr. Bean’s Mini grew up, got a gym membership, and learned a thing or two about refinement. Whether you’re navigating city streets or chasing sunsets in the Karoo, the Cooper S makes every journey an event. Mr. Bean might approve – if he could handle all that power.
