Page 24 - V1_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 full grown 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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Ready to be blown away by what the 2020 Cooper S Countryman can Just as all owners are unique, every MINI model
offer? Schedule your test drive today at Braman MINI of Palm Beach.
provides an individual driving experience due to
each’s level of potential customization. The Cooper
S Countryman featured here is a gorgeous match
of British Racing Green Metallic over British Oak
leather, whose buttery tones saturate the interior
as the South Florida sunlight bursts through the
enormous panoramic sunroof. The torquey 2.0
liter turbocharged engine is quick to respond and
make itself known in Sport mode, while all but
disappearing under the default Economic settings.
The 2020 Cooper S Countryman is a shot across
the bow for not only MINI’s critics, but the entire
industry. Those who deride a large crossover can
still take advantage of the practicality provided by
the Countryman, while others with reservations
about other models yet love the style, design, and
level of individualism provided by a MINI, can
finally join the party.
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