2024 MINI JCW Countryman ALL4 Review

The C-segment SUV market has been heating up in Malaysia in recent years. Consumers want enough space for family outings without sacrificing driving pleasure, and the 2024 MINI JCW Countryman ALL4 is a model that targets this demand. As the largest performance SUV in the MINI family, it not only retains the brand's iconic sporty genes but also upgrades in space and configuration. In this test drive, we will see whether it can balance the handling of a "pocket rocket" with the practicality of a family SUV.

In terms of appearance, the 2024 MINI JCW Countryman ALL4 continues MINI's classic rounded silhouette but portrays a more imposing presence with its larger dimensions. The front adopts a blacked-out honeycomb grille design, paired with sharp LED headlights on both sides for high recognizability. The sculpted lines on the hood and the sporty front bumper enhance its performance-oriented feel. The side profile features smooth lines, 20-inch alloy wheels paired with 245/40 R20 tires, making the side proportions more harmonious. The "JCW" logo on the lower part of the door and the black side skirts further emphasize its performance identity. At the rear, the blacked-out LED taillights adopt MINI's iconic ring design, while the dual side exhausts with a diffuser-style element on the rear bumper align with its sporty positioning. The overall design retains MINI's retro charm while incorporating the rugged feel of a modern SUV.

Sitting inside, the interior primarily features a black color scheme, complemented by red stitching and metallic accents to create a sporty atmosphere. The most noticeable feature on the center console is the 9.4-inch OLED round touchscreen, which offers high resolution and smooth operation. It integrates the MINI Intelligent System and supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The steering wheel is wrapped in leather with a solid grip, has a well-arranged layout of multifunction buttons, and is equipped with paddle shifters and a HUD (head-up display) for easy access to driving information. The seats feature leather upholstery with power adjustment, memory, and massage functions, providing excellent support and comfort in the front row. The rear seats can be folded in a 40:20:40 split configuration, and when folded, the trunk space can be expanded, making it convenient for daily use, such as storing strollers or suitcases. In terms of features, the car is equipped with Harman Kardon audio, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear air conditioning vents, keyless entry, and a start system, offering both practicality and comfort.

In terms of power, it is equipped with a 2.0T diesel engine, with a maximum torque of 400 N·m, although the maximum power is not explicitly stated. It is paired with a 7-speed DCT gearbox and a full-time all-wheel-drive system. The official 0-100 km/h acceleration time is only 5.4 seconds. In actual driving, the throttle responds quickly upon starting, with ample low-end torque, and a noticeable push-back sensation once the turbo kicks in. During mid-range acceleration for overtaking, the gearbox shifts smoothly and quickly, offering linear power delivery. Driving modes include Sport, Comfort, and Eco. In Sport mode, the steering becomes heavier, and power response is more aggressive, suitable for scenarios seeking driving pleasure. Comfort mode is more family-oriented, with moderately tuned suspension that effectively filters road bumps. The chassis features a front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link independent suspension. When cornering, body lean is well-controlled, and the steering is precise, providing the driver with ample confidence.

In daily driving, the noise insulation performance is commendable, with tire and wind noise not being obvious even at high speeds. The engine start-stop technology responds quickly, without noticeable jerks. In terms of fuel consumption, the diesel engine advantage is evident, with a combined road condition fuel consumption of about 6.5L per 100 kilometers, making it relatively economical for a C-class SUV. For safety features, it comes standard with 6 airbags, lane departure warning, active braking, ACC adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree panoramic camera. The automatic parking function is also very practical, making it easy for new drivers to park.

Overall, the core advantage of the 2024 MINI JCW Countryman ALL4 lies in: combining MINI's sporty handling with the practicality of an SUV, offering rich features, sufficient space, and economic fuel consumption. Compared to similar models like the BMW X1 or Mercedes-Benz GLA, it has advantages in terms of power performance and features, and its price of RM 399,000 is relatively reasonable. This car is suitable for two types of consumers: firstly, those who love the MINI brand and want a performance SUV that can also cater to family travel; secondly, those who value configuration and driving fun while also having some requirements for space, such as young families. If you are looking for driving pleasure and at the same time need a practical family car, this is a model worth considering.