With a stomp of the throttle the MINI Countryman John Cooper Works (JCW) dispels two automotive myths. The first is that sport utility vehicles (SUV) can’t be sporty. The second is that current MINIs are too big and no longer imbued with the driving charm found throughout their lineage.

EXTERIOR

The current generation MINI Countryman has become bigger, but that doesn’t mean it has lost its style and fun personality. In JCW form, things are more aggressive, having a sizeable grille that gives the vehicle that snub-nose, British bulldog look on top of an already squared-off design, rounded off by subtle JCW aero parts and high-gloss accents.

In a continuing nod to personalisation and fun, the MINI remains one of the few SUVs on the market available in duo-tones. JCW exclusive colours such as Legend Grey and Nanuq White can be had with either the standard Chili Red contrast roof and mirror caps, or as full-body paint for the more subdued personality type. Even more customisation can be done via the front and rear lighting via the infotainment. The final touch is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, as the standard to Jamaica 19-inch JCW package can now best deal with local terrain.

INTERIOR

While the exterior operates within the confines of the expectation of an SUV, MINI throws convention out the proverbial window for the cabin of the Countryman. Past the keyless entry and puddle lamps, the interior is like no other than itself as it draws full inspiration from the original and processes that design through a future prism.

The centrally located 240mm diameter high-resolution OLED infotainment touchscreen mimics the centre-mounted speedometer of the iconic original MINI. From there, the design goes MINI wild. Touches such as vertical air vents, fabric inlays, and stitched leather, coloured accents with the JCW flavour all combine to create what is the automotive equivalent of an open layout.

Open the panoramic sunroof and the MINI feels more like a room than a car. Still, nothing feels out of place or out of reach. Many features are powered or can be automated to be set and forgotten. What is not forgotten is MINI’s sense of whimsy. The operation of the ambient lighting confirms that — as does Spike, the Countryman’s cartoony, cute voice assistant.

The MINI’s tech list could go on forever. Highlights include functioning satellite navigation for Jamaica, with an augmented reality function that has to be seen to be believed. The harmon/kardon audio system pumps out vibrant sound from whatever source is connected to it. The infotainment runs fast and has a logical operational layout.

ON THE ROAD

Families wanting to use this as a daily driver will enjoy the multitude of storage solutions and ample cargo and passenger space. Beyond the dearth of convenience features, like the kick to open and close tailgate, there are many electronic safety assist systems to provide peace of mind. The Countryman confidently goes about its duties; however, below the surface, those in tune will feel that pitbull tugging at the leash sensation. Suspension is firm, but never harsh as to upset occupants.

Dig deep into the throttle, or switch to go-kart experience, and things move up a notch after a joyous yell from the infotainment. At this point, the John Cooper Works side of the Countryman makes itself felt. The 300bhp from the turbocharged 2-litre makes its way past the snappy, seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and to the MINI’s all-wheel drive system for maximum forward momentum.

The chassis dynamics will come to the surface at the first corner as the Countryman will do everything within its power to keep traction. The instinctive thing to do is brake, and the stopping power is there, but the driving aids and sharp steering encourage the brave to keep pushing. Using technology to sort out lateral loads, the MINI can be made to turn and hold its line at brain-melting velocities, keeping John Cooper’s ethos firmly alive.

VERDICT

The first mistake is to dismiss the Countryman JCW as another SUV. It contains all the elements its famous moniker touts. It’s fast! It corners with the best of them, able to turn the highway into a blur and warp from corner to corner down a B-road for maximum driving excitement. Behind the wheel, one feels cocooned in luxury, practicality, and style like no other, but it never removes one from the driving process.

The MINI Countryman JCW ALL4 is possibly the best way to enjoy the JCW experience, as the all-wheel drive system widens the operational scope, offering more control over the rabid power delivery other JCW variants possess.

The quad exhausts from the rear of MINI Countryman JCW signals its intent. (Photo: Bernhard Filser)

The new larger MINI Countryman JCW means plenty of interior and storage space of practicality and occupant comfort. (Photo: Bernhard Filser)

The MINI Countryman JCW ALL4 has a retro-futuristic take on its interior taking advantage of modern technology to fill it with premium materials and convenience features. (Photo: Bernhard Filser)

Never one to take itself seriously, the MINI Countryman John Cooper Works ALL4 can be had with contrasting roof colour options. (Photo: Bernhard Filser)