Mini Countryman

Countryman in brief

The Countryman was introduced in 2010 as the first five-door MINI. The first generation (R60) was produced from 2010–2016, the second (F60) from 2017–2024, and the third (U25) was unveiled in 2024, growing significantly and offered with both internal combustion and electric engines.

Like other MINIs, the trims are divided by engine: One, Cooper, Cooper S and John Cooper Works, with diesels marked by the letter D (Cooper D, Cooper SD). All-wheel drive is denoted by ALL4. The Countryman retains the MINI style and precise handling, but is significantly roomier than the hatchback, making it suitable for families.

R60, F60 and U25 — how they differ

The R60 generation (2010–2016) is the most affordable way to get a Countryman. It's more compact, with a large round central dial dominating the interior, typical of MINIs from that era. The 1.6-litre petrol engines, like those in the contemporary MINI Hatch, require meticulous maintenance.

The F60 generation (2017–2024) is larger, roomier and more modern, with BMW's three- and four-cylinder engines and a bigger boot. It's the most popular generation in the used market. Facelifted models from 2020 feature a revised front end and rear lights with a Union Jack motif.

The U25 generation (from 2024) is even larger and features a completely different interior — instead of the usual gauges, there's a round OLED screen. It comes with petrol, diesel, and electric engines, but there aren't many of these cars in the used market yet.

Engines and gearboxes

In the F60 generation, the One typically has a 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine (around 102 hp), the Cooper has the same 1.5 engine (around 136 hp), the Cooper S has a 2.0 (around 178–192 hp), and the John Cooper Works has a 2.0 (initially around 231 hp, from 2019 around 306 hp). Diesel versions include the One D (1.5, around 116 hp), Cooper D (2.0, around 150 hp), and Cooper SD (2.0, around 190 hp).

The plug-in hybrid Cooper SE ALL4 combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine and an electric motor (total power around 224 hp); it can only travel a few dozen kilometres on electric power alone. In the R60 generation, 1.6-litre petrol engines dominate (Cooper around 122 hp, turbocharged Cooper S around 184–190 hp) along with 1.6 and 2.0-litre diesel engines.

Gearboxes come as a 6-speed manual or automatic. From 2018, front-wheel-drive petrol versions in the F60 generation usually have a 7-speed dual-clutch Steptronic box, while diesel and some ALL4 versions have an 8-speed conventional automatic.

What to check when buying a used Countryman

In an R60 petrol car, check the timing chain and tensioner: a cold engine shouldn't rattle after starting, and frequent oil top-ups are a warning sign. In turbocharged Cooper S engines, deposits can build up on the intake valves.

F60: First, check for any oil or coolant leaks, and with the two-pedal box — ensure the car moves smoothly from a standstill. For diesel cars that have done a lot of city driving, inspect the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and EGR system.

In ALL4 versions, make sure all-wheel drive operates without any unusual noises, especially during cornering. It's worth checking the condition of the plug-in hybrid battery via diagnostics, and the overall condition of all cars — according to service and inspection records.

Versions

MINI equipment heavily depends on the chosen packages (e.g., Pepper, Chili, later — Classic, JCW Trim); we list the main versions and their typical equipment.

Comparing F60 generation versions

For most buyers, the best choice is the F60 generation Cooper, and for those who drive a lot, the Cooper D. Choose the Cooper S if you want more thrills, and the Cooper SE ALL4 if you have the means to regularly charge the car.

Frequently asked questions