The reasons for buying it: 1. A MINI Bigger is a MINI Better. 2. You sit in a more upright position than in the HB. 3. You sit higher than most sedans and can look straight at most SUVs, SAVs, and Crossovers as you past them...this thing can move. 4. Fulltime AWD for the weather. 5. The Countryman can keep up with the rest of the MINIs during rallies... 6. It cost less than a JCW. 7. It has a better MPG than my R52.
ooooo, sounds fantastic! Can't wait to hear about the adventures after the break in period is over :arf:
Reasons to not buy it...... 1. Too big. A MINI is supposed to be MINI 2. You sit up like you're driving a truck. 3. See #2 4. ALL4 sucks up HP like a latte at Starbucks. 5. Bloated MINI is left behind in the twisties, way to heavy. 6. Can get a JCW for about the same cost as a Countryman S. 7. Who cares about mileage.....it's a MINI :cornut: Scott (certified Countryman hater!)
I'm really glad that they made a 4 dr vehicle, so we can appeal to those that need the back seat access for children, parents etc.... However, I don't see one in my driveway in the future either. Now, if the All4 propagates it's way thru the rest of the model line.....maybe. Given the weather we get, I would love an All4 Clubby....
Aww c'mon Scott....tell us how you really feel. Whilst the Countryman will probably fill a niche, much like the other MINIs do, it's shadow will not darken my garage doorway. ...Les
I was glad to hear the positive report. For what it was designed to be it is still MINIer then the others, thus still part of the MINI world. I do plan to have one. Jim
I have received word from MINI Yaletown that the Countryman has arrived in Vancouver BC. Today SIZE Mini Cooper Club of Vancouver • View topic - COUNTRYMAN IS HERE IN VANCOUVER !!!
congratulations! I can understand the resistance to the design, but variety in niche models for those customers to which they market is a GOOD thing for the life of the brand. When I made the jump to a Clubman S from a MCS I struggled with the compromise issue. But it soon became a matter of bigger MINI or NO MINI thanks to the kid factor etc and I'm so glad I did it. Had my wife been aware of the 4d R60 when we ordered the Clubman, there might have been special interest group pressure...
It's kind of a better looking CR-V. And the latest CR-V is now as big as an SUV, so there was an opening.
Please keep us updated on how you like the Countryman. My wife might be willing to downsize from her Suburban.
I have to say 'Domino' looks good in black and red. :arf: Very nicely done on the CM, perhaps some of you less than enthusiastic MINIites should look at the Russian road trip pictures posted today via FB. If I can find it again, I will post the link. Here ya go.... LINK Ours (Pat's) should be in the state in time for Christmas. Any ideas on stripes? Open to suggestions if they are positive ideas. :incazzato: Don