How large can a Mini be? This question likely divides opinions. For classic purists, even the five-door «Clubman», first introduced in 2014, might seem sacrilegious.

The brand now offers a new and somewhat unexpected answer with its latest top model, the «John Cooper Works Countryman All4»: a crossover SUV measuring 4.45 meters long, 1.84 meters wide, 1.65 meters high, and weighing 1,735 kilograms.

Largest Mini Ever

This makes it the largest Mini ever produced since the «British Motor Corporation» (BMC) first introduced a small two-door car under this name in 1959. In the 1960s, the car became a symbol of British pop culture: quirky and eccentric, with a touch of whimsy.

We eagerly take the wheel of the (so far) largest Mini ever built and, on extensive drives—including on the German autobahn—we explore the essence of this vehicle.

Elegant silhouette. (Image: Mini, courtesy)

Compared to its immediate predecessor, the 2017 «Countryman», the new flagship of the Mini lineup is 13 centimeters longer, 21 centimeters wider, and 9 centimeters higher. This increase translates into a notably more spacious interior, making it feel less like a compact car.

Comfortable for Four

While Mini moves away from its traditional small size, it opens up to a new customer segment: the new vehicle comfortably accommodates four taller passengers.

Fortunately, these larger dimensions do not significantly compromise the fun driving experience for which Mini is renowned, often compared to go-kart driving.

Premium LED Headlights. (Image: Mini, courtesy)

Although the crossover SUV is built on the BMW X1 chassis, it maintains a high degree of driving distinctiveness. It is manufactured at BMW's Leipzig plant.

5.4 Seconds from 0 to 100

In our case, a 2-liter, 4-cylinder TwinPower turbo gasoline engine provides a sporty performance. With 221 kilowatts (300 horsepower) and a maximum torque of 400 Newton meters, it accelerates from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in just 5.4 seconds.

This performance is quite spirited and, combined with the sharply responsive steering and various driving modes that firm up the suspension when needed, it delivers a kind of go-kart feeling. The «Mini John Cooper Works Countryman All4» achieves its top speed of 250 kilometers per hour smoothly and effortlessly.

Distinctive Aesthetics. (Image: Mini, courtesy)

Reliable on the Road

Thanks to its all-wheel drive and favorable weight distribution, the car remains reliably on track even during spirited driving.

Whether one finds it a matter of taste, the car's sound system, especially in sportier driving modes like the go-kart mode, somewhat amplifies the engine noise—making it difficult to distinguish between natural engine sounds and artificially generated ones.

Strength and Sportiness

The «Mini» excels in design. It appears more modern and aesthetically pleasing compared to its very boxy predecessor. The optional red roof in the «John Cooper Works» version makes a bold statement and emphasizes its sporty character.

The upright, assertive silhouette, combined with characteristic Mini design elements and striking LED headlights, conveys an aesthetic of strength and sportiness.

Dashboard-Free Interior

In terms of interior design, the Mini takes a radical new approach with its latest generation. There is no traditional dashboard; instead, it features a panel made of recycled plastic that looks and feels premium and distinctive.

Racing Heritage: John Cooper Works. (Image: Mini, courtesy)

Few functions are still controlled by classic levers, such as the windows, sunroof, or automatic transmission.

Almost all other features are managed via a circular, plate-sized OLED display in the center of the cockpit. This can be a bit of an adjustment at first, but the menu navigation is quickly mastered.

Overall, finews.com concludes: The «Mini John Cooper Works Countryman All4» was thoroughly tested on extended drives. It is not only a very stylish vehicle but also an excellent one that remains engaging to drive. Mini has successfully infused a maximum of traditional brand DNA into a crossover SUV that is well-suited for city driving, long distances, and spirited country roads. Priced from 59,600 Swiss francs.