2016 MINI Countryman Specs

Just when you've thought MINI couldn't find a way to expand its model lineup any further, given the size limitations placed on the cars themselves (not to mention the brand name), MINI went ahead and created a unique, 4-door wagon that's essentially a MINI Cooper all grown up. 

Not quite a crossover, and not quite a wagon, the 2016 Countryman is a stylish blend of what MINI does best combined with a practicality and utility normally reserved for vehicles twice its size. And at no point does the Countryman sacrifice the MINI handling, perfomance, and excitement the brand has become synonymous with. 

Ostensibly, you can fit up to 5 people into the 2016 Countryman. However, that fifth person is going to feel a little snug. However, MINI has increased the overall space, making the second row of seats feel roomier than a MINI has any right to. Not to mention roughyl twice the amount of cargo room as a regular MINI Cooper in the rear. 

For 2016, the MINI Cooper Countryman gets two trims besides the base model - the Cooper S and John Cooper Works. All-wheel-drive becomes an option for the S trim, and comes standard for the JCW edition. MINI also added a host of luxury amenities into their version of a crossover.  17-inch alloy wheels with run-flat tires come in the base model, with automatic headlights and wipers, roof rails, automatic climate control, leatherette upholstery, six-way manually adjustable front seats, split folding rear seatbacks, ambient interior lighting, push-button ignition, a chilled glovebox, Bluetooth connectivity, and a six-speaker audio system with a CD player, HD radio, a USB port and an auxiliary audio jack.

Under the hood, the base model 2016 Countryman gets a 1.6-L inline four-cylinder engine that gets 121-hp and 114 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual transmission comes standard, with a six-speed automatic available on front wheel drive. 

However, upgrading to the Cooper S Countryman installs a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder that delivers 181-hp and 177 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive comes on the Cooper S ALL4 version. And for those wanting to push the envelope even more, the John Cooper Works edition gets a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder with standard AWD. 

So if you've been wanting to get a MINI Cooper, but have found yourself saying, I just wish they were a tad bigger to fit my life, now is your chance. The 2016 MINI Cooper Countryman is ready to move today, and ready show the big kids MINI is in it to win it.