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It's time to trade in the wagon and I'm interested in a pre-owned Mini Countryman, probably the Cooper S All4 version at around 5 years old. I think it's time to move away from diesel, so will be looking at the petrol, and I fancy the AWD version.
Anyone had one? Any pitfalls? Reliable? What about higher (100k upwards) mileage on the petrol engines?
Expensive to run? Real-world fuel economy? Servicing and spares pricing ok?
I would also need to fit a tow-bar for the Thule bike rack. Anyone had issues with this? Seems the that Cooper SD (diesel) is harder to fit a tow bar to?
I've had 2x BMW Mini hatch previously and loved them (noise of the super charger i the Cooper S was mesmerising), but they were a smidgen on the small side.
I got one as a rental recently and the visibility was very poor due to the twin boot doors and the pillars are huge.
I've had 2x BMW Mini hatch previously and loved them (noise of the super charger i the Cooper S was mesmerising), but they were a smidgen on the small side.
The most inverse-Tardis car I've ever driven, so much smaller on the inside than outside...
My SO has had a Countryman from new for 4 years. She absolutely loves it. It has been 100% reliable, with the only issue being some poor stitching on the driver seat, which the dealer replaced immediately without any fuss. She is considering a new one to replace it with, early this year.
I however, think it is a poor vehicle. Refinement isn't great. It's not great to drive. Steering is heavy. Space is poor, particularly the boot. I think it is a car you buy for the quirkiness i.e. completely form over function. A similarly priced golf or A3 is a much better car. Clearly my SO has other criteria in mind when she chooses a car! Loads of better hatchbacks and small SUV's out there. You buy a countryman because you want one, not because it's best in class.
Albanach - MemberI got one as a rental recently and the visibility was very poor due to the twin boot doors and the pillars are huge.
That would be the Clubman?
Hi, I have one and love it, very fast Cooper S Petrol, automatic, everything seems quality to me, no issues with the car, it is doing about 40 ish to the gallon and has plenty of space for us. My car is prepped to take a car rack on the back, check to see if the car you want is prepped for a bike rack, 2 holes at the back for a purpose built rear carrier.