Page 24 - CLub Braman 2020 Fall-Winter Magazine

Goin’ Up

The Country

WHEN IT WAS REINTRODUCED TO THE US in the early part of the century,
the new MINI was lauded and chastised for its size in equal measure.
While the minuscule proportions were an essential part of the car’s charm,
some cited the behemoths that shared the road in the form of SUVs and
pickup trucks, and expressed concerns over safety—despite the brand’s
outstanding crash test ratings. Regardless, the MINI soon found its niche,
and gained a large and loyal following.

Of course, success cannot be sustained without evolution. Over time, the
original 2-door hatchback version spawned several siblings, each meant to
fulfill a new segment of the market. This gradual permeation has now led
to the 2020 MINI Cooper S Countryman—the brand’s crossover offering,
and quite possibly, the best MINI yet.

The Countryman stands bulletproof against any of the marque’s historical
criticisms. Two fullgrown adults can comfortably sit in the second row
and take advantage of sliding and reclining seats; the optional diamond-
stitched leather throughout the interior would be at home in a car asking
double the MSRP; and the turbocharged engine combined with the new
DCT transmission provides downright impressive acceleration, while also
conserving fuel.

Apparently not content to only address the typical beefs, MINI also blessed
the Cooper S Countryman with an AWD drivetrain and Dynamic Damper
Control to ensure performance and safety under all conditions. All this, in
addition to the vast individual customization options that MINI is beloved
for, has resulted in a true do-it-all vehicle for less than $37,500.

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