Test drive MINI Countryman Cooper S Park Lane Edition: different

Driving a special performance based on MINI Countryman

Sometimes times change very quickly. Just a few years ago, the introduction of an SUV into the lineup of a traditional brand like MINI seemed like a shock, even sacrilege. There has been heated debate about whether a concept like this can match the company's image at all, whether the car's proportions will follow British design traditions, and whether the Countryman can be a real MINI at all or not. As if those days were yesterday and now the MINI Countryman has long been a permanent member of the MINI family of models, it sells well and enjoys a full reputation as the model with the most dynamic behavior and the most agile handling in its field. segment.

What is even more amusing in this case is that with the change of generations in the "classic" models of the brand, which led to a new increase in external dimensions and a significant decrease in character, the Countryman and Paceman were effectively old school at some point. MINI, where the feeling of karting behind the wheel is still at the forefront of civilized temperament and comfort in everyday life. That's why, from today's perspective, the Countryman looks, from a certain point of view, even better than when it hit the market - simply because the driving feel sets it apart from almost everything else on the market, and its good functionality is a fact. , which has proven itself over time and is no longer a surprise, but is a well-known plus.

Dynamic character

The Cooper S version fits perfectly into the overall concept of the MINI Countryman - not being as expensive, exotic and somewhat uncomfortable as the John Cooper Works version, but not being as docile as diesel versions, this is probably the most optimal version of the model. . Fuel consumption varies greatly depending on the style of driving, but as long as you do not constantly behave like a racer, its value in most cases remains within reasonable limits and remains below ten liters per hundred kilometers. Intermediate thrust during engine acceleration 190 hp and 260 Nm is amazing for an engine with a displacement of only 1,6 liters, and gas responses are much more spontaneous than the design principle of the machine suggests. The forcing sound is also pleasing to the ear and perfectly complements the sporty atmosphere of the board.

The famous kart feel is here in all its glory - steering precision is close to racing sports cars, chassis reserves for fast driving far exceed the usual class limits - whether you are in the city, on a country road, on the road with many bends or on the highway, driving the MINI Countryman delivers a true pleasure. Yes, driving comfort isn't perfect, but it's not lacking either – especially given the excellent road holding.

Individual style

The Park Lane Special Edition differs from other versions of the MINI Countryman only in specific design details. On the outside, the car is finished in a two-tone combination of Earl Gray and Oak Red tones, while the decor in red has been given a special design. 18-inch wheels with Turbo Fan Dark Gray design harmonize with the main body color, while special front fender trims remind of the car's unusual character. Inside the car, we also find interesting elements - even at the doorstep, visitors are greeted with metal strips with the Park Lane sign, while the Park Lane Chili and Wired packages create an individual taste of the interior. As with any other MINI, the style of the interior is something you like or dislike. Another proof that the Countryman is a real MINI.

CONCLUSION

Driving the Countryman is a real pleasure: whether you're driving in the city, on the highway or on a road with curves, there is currently no more agile and dynamic model in this class. The transmission of the Cooper S perfectly matches the character of the car with its hot temperament and pleasant acoustics. The Park Lane version is the perfect way to bring out the MINI Countryman's strong personality.

Text: Bozhan Boshnakov

Photo: Melania Iosifova, MINI