Now for the drive!

Nothing makes me smile like a cool car with a stick shift gearbox, and I was pleased to find that familiar 6-speed in the Countryman. Key into the slot ... oh, wait a minute; it’s upside down again! (Note to BMW: Why can’t I simply keep the key fob in my pocket and push the start button?) Off we go, and the first thing I notice as I pull a quick U-turn (yes, Dumbo here went the wrong way), is how maneuverable this vehicle is. Why I was surprised at this is anyone’s guess. After all, they’ve never made a Mini which didn’t zip around town like a go-kart on steroids!

As I pull out onto the highway though, heading home, I couldn’t help but notice a slight lack in acceleration. I realize this little car is carrying a tad more weight than those I’ve previously experienced, but the hesitation is somewhat noticeable. Since I was driving the base 1.6-litre 4-banger which only cranks out 121hp, I’m sure the extra 60 horses in the turbocharged S version would quite readily eliminate this issue. However, as I went up through the gears, I also found that the vehicle carries some rather tall gearing, especially from 3^rd to 4^th and 5^th to 6^th. This improves fuel economy (I averaged 7.6L/100km during the week and was having fun too!), but does little for the high-end acceleration figures.

Wait a minute, let’s try that again! I slowed down a tad and then went pedal-to-the-metal while eyeing the rev counter, which Mini also placed right in front of me, and I now understand what you need to do! Keep this little puppy up in the sweet range and the vehicle becomes an entirely different beast! Naturally, if I were purchasing one myself, I’d probably go for the all-out Cooper S model. But if saving fuel is a high priority, no one should be disappointed with the base Cooper. You simply need to adjust your driving style slightly, and allow the motor to zing out … which, by the way, sounds great!

The ride quality is exceptionally good on this vehicle, taking highway bumps and grunts like a pro. The electrically assisted steering is also top notch and nothing less than you’d expect from a company like BMW, although some might find it a tad heavy at low speeds. I’ve never liked finger-light steering, which tends to be a North American idea, so I’m as happy as a pig-in-mud with this Mini!

Cornering was mentioned earlier and, although one might expect a little compromise with the higher centre of gravity and the larger body, it’s not that noticeable. You still know that you’re in a Mini; it’s just that you can see a little clearer past the cars in front of you.

Road sound quality is up too. Of course, if you go for the double-sunroof which was on my tester, and then are dumb enough to tilt them both on the highway ... double the hole, double the noise! I liked it though as it supplies a nice airy atmosphere and plenty of sunshine.

In the countryside I let the Mini do what it does best ... I threw it around every corner I could find, and then some! This brought a huge silly grin to my face, making me forgive and forget those minor gripes previously mentioned.

Perhaps it did appear a tad strange to me at first, but the 2011 Cooper Countryman has succeeded in doing what every other Mini product has achieved in the past. It’s renewed my love of the brand and I can’t wait to try out the AWD Cooper S version … I’ve already enquired about getting one!

Hmm ... Maybe it’ll corner just as good in my front field! :-)