2025 Mini Countryman SUV

The Mini Countryman SUV was redesigned for the 2025 model year, increasing in size, and is based on the redesigned 2023 BMW X1. The biggest news is that there will be a fully electric version with all-wheel drive.

The five-passenger Mini SUV retains its flexible seating, minimalist interior design, and sporty handling (hopefully) while moving forward on the brand's goal of being a fully electric car by 2030. Also important, it will eventually be a blind spot warning.

The 2025 Mini Countryman will be the manufacturer's first vehicle built in Germany. (Mini is owned by BMW.)

Here's what we know so far.

Competitors: Audi Q3, Alfa Romeo Tonale, BMW X1, Jaguar E-Pace, Lexus UX, Mercedes-Benz GLA / GLB, Volvo XC40

Powertrains:

• 241 hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 7-speed automatic transmission

• 312 hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 7-speed automatic transmission

• 313 hp, dual electric motors, all-wheel drive

Price: $38,900-$46,900

On sale: S ALL4 and JCW ALL4 in spring 2024, SE ALL4 in autumn 2024

CR Retrieval

The Countryman EV is the next step in the brand's transition to focus on electric vehicles. Whatever the drivetrain, the Countryman remains recognizably a Mini, although some brand quirks have evolved.

Our testing of past Countrymans found that this small SUV's nimble handling made it fun to drive. But like other Minis we've tested, this Mini has a firm ride that can be tiring. The rear seats are supportive, comfortable, and roomy. The added space the new Countryman promises will make it more competitive with other premium small SUVs.

We expect blind spot warning (BSW) and rear cross-traffic alert (RCTW) to be standard or optional on the new Countryman. Current models don't even offer those two active safety features.

Outside

One thing that remains constant with Mini vehicles is that no matter how often they are redesigned, they remain instantly recognizable. For 2025, the Countryman has grown some 2.3 inches taller and 5 inches longer but doesn't look much different from its first- and second-generation predecessors, although when positioned next to its sibling, the new SUV's size and bulk are larger. very clearly visible.

The Mini “face” remains, with a large octagonal surround framing the EV's faux grille and bumper/area for mounting a license plate. Mini continues the tradition of placing the headlights high and outside the Countryman's nose. This generation gets six-sided LEDs and loses the chrome finish all around.

Continuing the theme, the Countryman sports window glass that seems to wrap around the entire vehicle, along with a contrasting colored roof.

At the rear, the Countryman's lights are placed vertically on the outer edge of the car, just outside the cut line of the rear doors. It appears the rear doors have a slightly higher lift than the previous generation Countryman. A chrome skid/damage plate sits beneath the bumper, offering protection for any light off-roading.

You can't spell “minimalism” without a Mini, and with the next-generation Countryman, the automaker continues that trend. Like the previous model, the 2025 Mini Countryman's interior is dominated by a large, high-resolution OLED touchscreen running the latest Android-based operating system, with a small pod underneath that houses a cluster of toggle switches.

In previous Mini models, the traditional rectangular screen was housed within a round bezel, meaning it was very short and the edges were cut off by trim. The new OLED screen is much larger and able to fit into a circular space.

Gone is the traditional instrument cluster for the driver. Now, all the information is displayed on a large, round center screen. The top of the screen contains information such as vehicle speed and battery status; pressing the speed display can change the screen to a full-view speedometer.

Menu functions are displayed on the left and right sides of the screen as small widgets, while at the bottom of the screen, there are navigation, media, phone, and climate function icons that are always present and can be selected at any time.

Below the screen is a small switch bar, a Mini design element that dates back to the original 1960s model. In the new Countryman, five buttons control the parking brake, gear selector, start/stop, an optional Experience mode function that changes interior lighting and appearance, and volume control. The Mini does away with the traditional gear selector and now uses the space for storage.

Interior materials consist of a new recycled polyester knit that covers the dashboard, upper door panels, and center armrest. A chrome-look material is used for the air vents, door latches and cup holder surrounds, while the seating surfaces are made from a synthetic material.

What Drives It

There are three powertrain configurations for the US market, and they all mark significant power increases, though remember, the SUV itself is larger.

The two-motor electric setup produces a peak power of 313 hp. The 66 kWh battery can be recharged on public DC fast chargers at speeds of up to 130 kW, increasing the state of charge from 10 percent to 80 percent in 30 minutes, according to BMW/Mini.

The Countryman S ALL4 has a 241 hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with more than 100 more horsepower than the 2024 Countryman (134 hp) and more than 50 hp more than the S Countryman (189 hp). The transmission is likely to be the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic used in the related BMW X1.

The John Cooper Works performance edition goes on sale at the same time, with a 312 hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. (That's an 11-hp increase over the previous generation.) Mini claims this sporty SUV can go from 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds.

All three powertrains are combined with all-wheel drive.

Active Safety and Driver Assistance

Mini hasn't released any information on which active safety systems are standard, although we expect it to be an improvement over the current Countryman, which only comes standard with automatic emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian detection. Road AEB, BSW, and RCTW aren't even on offer, but we hope that changes as it did with the latest BMW X1.

The 2025 Countryman's optional Driving Assistant Plus package includes adaptive cruise control (ACC) and lane keeping/lane centering assist.

The Driving Assistant Professional package features give the Countryman the ability to perform automatic lane changes and exit from the highway, as well as hands-free driving at low speeds.

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2023 Citroën C3

The comfortable supermini offers great value for money

If you're looking for a supermini that prioritizes comfort and efficiency, then the Citroen C3 is the right choice.

The new Citroen C3 stands out from other small cars thanks to its funky styling and many personalization options. It's fuel efficient too, and its ride is among the softest in the class, which makes the C3 a relaxing car to drive. comfortable to drive, but not the most fun to drive.supermini

The technology inside could be better, but you get enough equipment for your money with the C3 and an equally generous boot space. Citroen's supermini is a great choice for buyers who don't want to follow the crowd.

About Citroen C3

The third generation C3 arrived in 2016 and immediately erased memories of its disappointing predecessor. Following a mid-life refresh in 2020, the C3 looks sharper and is now offered in You!, Plus and Max trims, while other special edition versions come and go from the range.

The Citroen C3 competes in one of the most hotly contested areas of the car market: superminis. So it will compete with the Dacia Sandero, Peugeot 208 , Vauxhall Corsa and Volkswagen Polo.

Its clear value and unique styling means the C3 offers something very different to competitors in its class. The current Dacia Sandero and even its ability to undercut the cheapest cars on sale aren't really trying to compete with Peugeot, Vauxhall or Volkswagen in their vehicles. respective areas of strength. This car doesn't claim to be as nimble as a 208 or Corsa, or as refined as a Polo. But the C3 is priced at under £13,500, making it one of the Citroens.

Other rivals to the Citroen C3 include the Hyundai i20 and Kia Rio< a i=4>, along with the Skoda Fabia and SEAT Ibiza from the Volkswagen Group family. The Renault Clio is one of the standout choices in its class, while the Mazda 2 and Toyota Yaris are both also in the mix.

The running gear includes a platform that is a development of the old C3 Mk2. This isn't a bad thing as it provides driving comfort, while the more important gears, such as the engine and gearbox, are much peppier and offer better day-to-day running costs.

Petrol power comes from Citroen's versatile 1.2 PureTech three-cylinder engine, in the 83 and 110. The latter gives the C3 excellent performance, while its efficiency is on par with less powerful engines thanks to a standard-fit stop-start system. The 1.6 liter BlueHDi 100 diesel engine is no longer available in the price list.

All C3s are front-wheel drive and equipped with a five- or six-speed gearbox as standard. If you want a car, you'll need to opt for the PureTech 110 petrol in top-spec Plus or Max trim, where the EAT6 auto is on offer.

If you want a small car that prioritizes comfort and fuel economy, then the C3 is hard to beat. The mid-spec Plus trim is the best option in the range, saving around £2,000 over the top-spec Max version, but still comes with extras like 16-inch alloy wheels, rear parking sensors and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

Whether you choose the C3 1.2 PureTech in 82bhp or 109bhp form, you'll still benefit from excellent fuel economy. Combined figures show around 45mpg to 59mpg (depending on which version you choose), meaning it shouldn't be too difficult to achieve 50mpg+ on combined A-road, B-road, and motorway driving.

The Citroen C3 hatchback is expected to retain around 47-50 percent of its original value after a three-year ownership period, which is on par with the VW Polo and outperforms the Vauxhall Corsa.

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MINI Hatch

WHAT IS IT?

This is the modern Mini Mk3, born back in 2013 and revitalised by means of yet another facelift back in 2021. It won’t be too long for this world, however, because Mini has said that it’ll be the first brand in the BMW Group to go fully electric at some point in the early 2030s.

IS IT HAVING A MID-LIFE CRISIS?

Ha-ha – that hefty new snout on the three- and five-door hatch and that odd moustache-like surround were all part of the facelift. Mini says they were added to make the car look wider and more aggressive, although we’re unsure quite why that would be necessary. 

Now, set your ‘non-British ideas of what Britishness is’ alert mode to Defcon 3, because Mini is laying it on thick. It’s a wonder you don’t get a free bulldog with every car purchased.

Since 2018 you’ve had to have Union Jack rear lights on your Mini hatch. Fair play to Mini, it has been meticulously correct in ensuring the split, illuminated emblem is the ‘correct’ way up (which caused a few issues in the US, where asymmetric rear lights are not usually permitted) and we have no doubt some folk utterly adore this feature – but we’re also of the opinion that many find it somewhat… challenging. Especially outside the UK, where they’re an option. 

That’s a subjective point though. The facelift also brought with it several interior tweaks including new trim options, an upgraded infotainment system, and the option of an electronic handbrake instead of a conventional ratchet. Head to the interior tab for more.

WHAT ARE MY ENGINE OPTIONS?

Engines are all the same as they were at the last facelift back in 2018 (although you can no longer buy a diesel-powered Cooper SD). That means One and Cooper models get a 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine, whereas the Cooper S and John Cooper Works iterations get a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-pot in different states of tune. Full details over on the driving tab.

WHAT IF I FANCY SOMETHING A LITTLE GREENER?

Ask, and you shall receive – click these blue words for our full Mini Electric review.

WHAT’S THE COMPETITION LIKE?

Take your pick from any of the many superminis you’ll find on these shores, including the Audi A1, Citroen C3, Fiat 500, Ford Fiesta, Hyundai i10, Mazda 2, Kia Picanto, Peugeot 208, Renault Clio, Toyota Aygo, Vauxhall Corsa, VW Up and more.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

Starting prices are somewhat inflated at time of writing, largely due to the fact that chipageddon means that the One hatchback is currently unavailable. As such your entry point to Mini ownership is the three-door Cooper at £22,565, with the five-door £660 more. That’s before you start on the optional extras and Mini Yours customisation programme, mind. Head to the buying tab for the full lowdown.

WHAT'S THE VERDICT?

“The moustachioed Mini is an excellent grown-up hatch, if not the most practical choice”

The Mini Hatch remains a cut above the rest of the class inside, has superb drivetrains and a very well-sorted chassis to handle whatever poke is provided by the chosen motor up front. The facelift has certainly provided a bolder face (naturally), but it’ll hardly alter its showroom appeal and the almost limitless Mini Yours Customised options list guarantees that it’ll still fly out of showrooms.

The 211-litre boot is particularly tiny and obviously the three-door can only seat four, but you absolutely won’t be buying a Mini Hatch for the practicality. The infotainment has been well updated and the JCW remains fantastic to drive. The Cooper S provides the same big-engine, small-car level of fun too, and it’d be easy to make the One and Cooper your own.

 

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Chevrolet Matiz

Is this the car that will set the Chevrolet badge apart from its Daewoo predecessor? The new Matiz keeps its city-friendly dimensions and perky styling, but along with the unfamiliar name, it benefits from a whole host of welcome changes that enhance versatility, fuel economy and refinement.

Chevrolet's extensive makeover has given the Matiz a new lease of life. It's now far more refined, frugal, better to drive and comes with extra kit. But the little Chevy is facing seriously stiff competition from the new Peugeot 107, Citroen C1 and Toyota Aygo city cars. They may cost more, at £6,500, but the Matiz will struggle to match their image.

Is this the car that will set the Chevrolet badge apart from its Daewoo predecessor? The new Matiz keeps its city-friendly dimensions and perky styling, but along with the unfamiliar name, it benefits from a whole host of welcome changes that enhance versatility, fuel economy and refinement.

The Giugiaro-penned lines of the original Matiz have been freshened up with sharp-edged new headlamps, a lower front grille and bold round tail-lights. It may lack the cute looks that made the original such a big hit, but the car is certainly distinctive.

Much of the restyled metal is new, too - around 40 per cent of the Matiz's panels are made from lighter high-strength steel, lowering kerbweight by more than 100kg to 727kg.

This, along with revisions to both the 796cc and 1.0-litre engines, has seen a dramatic improvement in fuel returns. Economy on the smaller unit is up from 46.3 to 54.3mpg, while on the larger motor it climbs from 44.1 to 50.4mpg.

Both powerplants now comply with Euro IV emissions regulations, and the engineers have worked hard on refinement. The Matiz is now far quieter on the move thanks to better insulation. Only a background engine hum penetrates the cabin, and there's little road and wind noise at motorway speeds.

With only 66bhp and 91Nm of torque available, though, performance in the 1.0-litre version we drove is best described as relaxed. The car has to be pushed to make decent progress.

Grip levels are low, which is hardly a surprise given the Chevy's tiny, skinny- profile tyres, and understeer sets in early through tighter corners. And while the light steering is ideal in town, its lack of feedback becomes obvious at speed. Thankfully, the long-throw gearchange is direct and the brakes feel strong.

The ride is now smoother at lower speeds, too, further improving comfort for occupants. What's more, the driving position is fine with good visibility, and although it takes time to grow used to the central dash-top dials, they are clear and simple. The seats are comfortable, while there's decent room for four.

A less intrusive rear suspension set-up means boot space is increased from 104 to 170 litres. Remove the back headrests and the split rear bench flips forward, boosting the capacity to 845 litres. Standard kit should include twin front airbags, a CD player and ABS.

When the Matiz goes on sale in June there will be three trims - S, SE and SX - and prices aren't expected to be much higher than those of the current range. That means the base 796cc S will cost around £6,000, with the flagship 1.0-litre SX at about £8,000.

 

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Porsche GT2

Best engine output: Wimmer Rennsporttechnik Solingen traditionally turns cars into faster and hotter models than their series counterparts. Currently, they are eyeing the new Porsche 997 GT2 Biturbo. Thorsten Wimmer shows his capabilities with the 680 hp Porsche 997 GT2 Evo - resulting in 530 hp. This new competitive athlete from Wimmer RS looks hot, and tenacious, and has a super cool visual appearance.

The sporty Porsche GT2 from Wimmer RS wants to hit the race track. It feels right at home in tricky corners as well as on the street. The full power of 680 hp and -an amazing 870 Nm is achieved with the following conversion:

- bi-turbo engine
- improved engine management combined with two optimized Wimmer turbochargers
- custom-made Wimmer sports exhaust system with two 100 Zeller sports catalysts
- cylinder head development
- sports camshaft
- sports clutch

The price is all-inclusive, with the price for a fairly complete engine conversion at 29,800.00 Euros, including a guarantee for fitting and left-hand drive.

According to Wimmer, acceleration to 100 speed is 3.4 seconds. 200 km/h is reached in just 9.78 seconds, and 300 km/h reaches the monster hp in a spectacular 25.8 seconds. Regarding maximum speed, there is 356 km/h in the air - depending on conversion and tire clearance!

The DTM-approved racing technique uses genes from Dunlop tires, which then opens up a new product segment: MaxxPerformance tires. Sport-Maxx GT - in sizes 235/30-20 and 325/25-20, equipped with beautiful Sportec rims, ensuring excellent stability at maximum speed. Even in areas with speeds of more than 300 km/hour.

The optical appearance is spiced up with exterior rearview mirrors and a carbon rear spoiler lip. At the customer's request, all parts can be made of carbon. The chassis has been upgraded with H&R components, to address the increased driving performance.

The beautiful, handcrafted sports exhaust system and optimized back pressure of the Wimmer RS allow all the power, hidden under the hood, to be heard in a beautiful tone.

The 2019 Porsche 911 GT2 RS currently sits at the top of the 911 nameplate's performance hierarchy. Its massively ventilated bodywork and striking rear wing help identify what is also the most powerful production 911 Porsche has ever made. The GT2 RS has set lap records at tracks such as the Nürburgring Nordschleife and more recently at Road America. During our annual Lightning Lap in 2018, we drove a car equipped with the Weissach package that beat the 755 hp Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 and the sensational McLaren 720S.

Engine, Ride, and Handling

The 911 GT2 RS is what happens when you combine a lightweight sports car with a 3.8-liter flat-six engine that produces 700 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. This powerful power is channeled to the rear wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Equipped with a set of sticky Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, this incredible powertrain helps the 911 GT2 RS teleport from zero to 60 mph in 2.6 seconds and shred the quarter-mile drag strip in 10.3 seconds at 140 mph. Of course, this incredible Porsche has the moves of Mick Jagger and the mechanical equivalent of telepathy. Its highly agile chassis helps the GT2 RS stay put in corners while remaining livable on normal roads.  The sound of a roaring engine is exciting on the track, but it can be excruciating on long journeys on the highway.

Interior and Technology

While Porsche hasn't turned the interior of the GT2 RS into a racing-focused environment, the standard fixed-back seats can be uncomfortable when the race track turns into city traffic. Luckily, an adjustable chair set is available at no additional cost. The interior design will be familiar among pre-992 generation 911s, with a sloping center console and five-gauge instrument panel. A mix of leather and faux suede surfaces covers the cabin and gives it a very luxurious look. The standard touchscreen infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay capability but not Android Auto. Desirable options include Bose surround sound and a front axle lift system, which will help prevent the chin spoiler from

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