New 2013 Mini Countryman Diesel review, test drive

Press the engine start button and the 1995cc, four-cylinder common-rail diesel settles into a very BMW-like gravelly idle. This engine makes a rather unimpressive 110bhp, but then again, its torque figure of 27.5kgm is quite healthy. Performance, as a result, is sprightly and low-speed responsiveness is particularly strong. In fact, it is a bit too strong; there’s a small burst of power when you tap the throttle and this makes for jerky initial progress in slow-moving traffic. Beyond this, you won’t find much to complain about, as the engine has strong mid-range performance and will easily pull the Countryman D’s 1310kg kerb weight to a top speed of 180kph. We did notice that the six-speed automatic transmission can be occasionally jerky, but its reasonably quick shifts are what help the Countryman D get to 100kph in 11.8 sec, which is about the same time it takes an A 180 CDI to get there. There’s even a Sport mode that quickens the gearbox’s responses when you ask for a downshift, although the push-pull ‘paddles’ can be infuriating to use.

The Countryman’s handling is, as you would expect of a Mini, entertaining. The steering is sharp, quick and feelsome, if a bit weighty at parking speeds, and the stiff springs lend the car good body control. It’s also got a relatively tight turning circle, good visibility and a responsive engine, all of which add up to make it an easy car to drive in the city. Continued..