FEATURES | 8 out of 10
Expert Quotes:
How do you control all this stuff? With a joystick and two buttons between the shifter and the Center Rail. This is basically BMW's iDrive system, which has evolved from a travesty into something usable.
Los Angeles Times
...A central rail [that] runs from front to rear of the cabin, onto which you can clip any number of functional aftermarket options like a storage box, armrest or iPod holder.
Top Gear
The big speedometer is still intact (it actually looks like its grown in size), incorporating Mini's navigation and infotainment screen...
Autoblog
...in its details, from the iDrive-like interface with the navigation screen to the array of electronic driving aids, the Countryman is the most BMW-like of Minis.
Popular Mechanics
A intentionally weird Center Rail...is an armrest and cupholder mounting system run amok.
Automobile
MINI Connected is the highlight feature, an optional system that adds a range of iPhone apps compatibility including Pandora and text messaging. Navigation, Bluetooth and USB, push-button start, HD Radio, a trip computer, and an immense range of style and appearance accessories are also available.
As you step up the Countryman range from Cooper to Cooper S, you also get more equipment in addition to more power; a contrasting white roof, sport seats, leather-trimmed steering wheel and SiriusXM satellite radio are all included. A Harmon Kardon sound system and anti-theft alarm system can also be added.
Upgrading to the Cooper S Countryman ALL4, you'll add not just all-wheel drive, but also standard fog lamps.
All versions of the Countryman can be upgraded with leather seats, heated seats, and a panoramic sunroof. Just beware that piling on the options, individualization, and extras equates to piling on the cash.
Conclusion
Almost infinitely customizable, available with a healthy set of techie upgrades, and well-specified even in base form, the 2012 MINI Countryman can be built to suit nearly anyone--for a price.
