The 2025 MINI Countryman S All4 sets off with the confidence of a hot hatch wearing SUV boots. Square-edged LED lamps, chunky wheel arches and that geometric “Charismatic Simplicity” surfacing give the car a pugnacious stance, while the roundel-shaped rear lights and floating roof retain the cheeky DNA every MINI fan expects. Slide inside and the cabin feels just as individual: Vescin upholstery and a knitted dash panel create a lounge-like vibe, and the clever packaging supplies genuine legroom for five without stealing too much from the boot.

Pride of place sits a 9.4-inch circular OLED screen, unlike anything else on the road. It looks spectacular when lit, yet the software lets it down. Touch inputs can lag, native navigation sometimes freezes, and our Android Auto connection fell into an endless cycle of drop-outs, no matter whether we used Bluetooth or a cable. Apple devices fared better, but even basic climate tweaks suffered micro-delays that broke the flow. The result is a cabin that dazzles the eyes while poking the patience.

Fortunately, the hardware under the bonnet redeems things. A turbocharged 2.0-litre four flings 241 hp to all four corners, shoving the Countryman to 60 mph in a lively 5.8 seconds and hauling it down again in a tidy 109 feet. Steering is quick and chatty, the chassis feels planted, and the suspension encourages confident corner speeds on smooth tarmac. Rougher asphalt exposes a firm edge, and the lack of paddle shifters dampens driver involvement, yet the overall balance still delivers ample satisfaction on a Sunday back-road run.
MINI’s drive-mode rotary—“Experiences”—adds flavour without overcomplication. Go-Kart sharpens throttle and shift logic, Green relaxes everything for easy commuting, and Trail softens the throttle for gravel tracks. Bespoke graphics and ambient lighting complement each setting, keeping the cockpit alive even on mundane trips.
Ultimately, the latest Countryman S All4 proves bigger, quicker and more characterful than its predecessor, blending spirited dynamics with everyday versatility. Cure the screen’s hiccups, and this compact SUV would be a knockout; as it stands, buyers get a punchy street performer whose tech gremlins occasionally steal the spotlight.