The four-door SUV-like Countryman is larger than other Minis but it's still small and fun to drive. The quirky interior has well shaped and comfortable seats. It retains the quick steering and fantastic agility of other Minis. The S has a punchy powertrain, and it posted a very good 26 mpg overall in our tests. Familiar downsides carry over, including frustrating controls, a stiff ride, and a noisy cabin. Four- and five-passenger seating configurations are offered. All-wheel drive is only available on the S version. Typical options can easily drive the price for an all-wheel-drive model beyond $32,000. Reliability has dropped to well below average.
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