Refreshing or Revolting: 2017 Mini Countryman
Sufficiently updated or just more of the same?
Once again, Mini is challenging the definition of its own brand name. The 2017 Mini Countryman grows significantly in its second generation, but retains the look and proportions of the original Mini crossover. Does the new model wear Mini's characteristic styling better than the last one? You be the judge.
Many of the changes take place in front, with the Countryman gaining new headlights with a more angular design. All models now sport a grille with downturned corners, giving the Countryman more of a frowny face. This look was previously only available on S and JCW models, and was refined to its current shape with the 2015 refresh. Two large rectangular intakes now surround the foglights, which are still round but placed closer to the center of the bumper.
Though it's difficult to tell the difference between the two models from the side, the new Countryman is at least 8 inches longer than last year's model, with a wheelbase that's 2.9 inches longer. You can see the added length in the rear overhang. The roof spoiler is retained but the front fender vent has changed shape and been relocated.
The new Countryman's taillights look like the original's but are larger, now spilling onto the hatch. The lamps also feature three-dimensional LED rings inside the housings. The license plate has been moved from the bumper to a recessed area of the liftgate. The Countryman badge still spans nearly the entire width of the hatch in big letters.
