It's hard to properly categorize the Mini Countryman since it's quite a bit cheaper than comparable luxury rivals, but it's definitely a step above mainstream rivals.
First, cross-shop the BMW X1, which is basically the same thing underneath but has a far more sedate personality.
At the opposite end of the spectrum sits the Subaru Crosstrek, a compact hatchback on stilts that follows a close recipe to the Countryman.
Then dig deeper into luxury with the Audi Q3 that offers a sporty driving experience if a cramped interior.
The same is true with the Mercedes-Benz GLA, which never quite feels high-end but has been a hit for the brand.
Finally, the Lexus NX is more convincingly luxurious and it offers a hybrid—but it's a lot more expensive comparably equipped.
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 2017 MINI Cooper CountrymanBrowse Used Listings |  2017 Audi Q3Browse Used Listings |  2017 BMW X1Browse Used Listings |  2017 Lexus NXBrowse Used Listings |  2017 Subaru CrosstrekBrowse Used Listings |
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| Quick Specs | ||||
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It may be less mini than before, but the Mini Countryman now does a much better job of feeling like a proper crossover. |
The 2017 Audi Q3 isn't the most space-efficient or fuel-efficient in its class, but it gives compact luxury shoppers the ride comfort, easy maneuverability, and flexible cabin they seek. |
Pleasant to drive and built to a price, the 2017 BMW X1 is a mainstream subcompact crossover that is pleasant to drive but lacks the brand's "ultimate driving machine" performance. |
The Lexus NX is a new direction for Lexus and a capable, smooth crossover that could use a little more smoothing around the corners. |
The 2017 Subaru Outback is an extremely versatile, rugged, compact SUV that's relatively efficient compared to other crossovers. |
| MSRP From | ||||
| $26,100 | $31,800 | $33,750 | $35,285 | $21,695 |
| Gas Mileage | ||||
| 21 MPG City / 33 MPG Hwy | 20 MPG City / 28 MPG Hwy | 22 MPG City / 32 MPG Hwy | 22 MPG City / 30 MPG Hwy | 23 MPG City / 33 MPG Hwy |
| Engine | ||||
| Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-3 | Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4 | Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4 | Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4 | Regular Unleaded H-4 |
| EPA Class | ||||
| Mid-Size Cars | Compact Cars | Large Cars | Small SUV 2WD | Small Sport Utility Vehicles 4WD |
| Style Name | ||||
| Cooper FWD | 2.0 TFSI Premium FWD | sDrive28i Sports Activity Vehicle | NX Turbo FWD | 2.0i Manual |
| Drivetrain | ||||
| Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | All Wheel |
| Passenger Capacity | ||||
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Doors | ||||
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Body Style | ||||
| Sport Utility | Sport Utility | Sports Activity Vehicle | Sport Utility | Sport Utility |
| Transmission | ||||
| Manual w/OD | Automatic w/OD | Automatic w/OD | Automatic w/OD | Manual w/OD |
| Detailed Spec Comparison | ||||
| 2017 MINI Cooper Countryman vs. 2017 Audi Q3 | 2017 MINI Cooper Countryman vs. 2017 BMW X1 | 2017 MINI Cooper Countryman vs. 2017 Lexus NX | 2017 MINI Cooper Countryman vs. 2017 Subaru Crosstrek | |
