I have a 2024 X1m35, and my wife has a 2025 countryman All4 EV, and taking the battery vs ICE out of the equation, there are a few things to note: The Countryman has none of the bugs and annoyances in its MiniOS9 that the Bimmer has with BMWOS9. The X1 has a slightly more expensive feeling ride quality, but primarily noted only when comparing them back to back. The materials in the Bimmer are a bit more upscale, but the Mini’s interior is subjectively much more fun. The exterior look of these two vehicles is quite different, and the Mini IMO is a bit more “ordinary.” However, it is absolutely more fun to drive. If I’m running errands or in the mood for an anytime ride, I tend to grab the Mini, if it’s available. If I’m going for an early morning canyon run and I’m not going to take one of my M cars, I will take the X1m35 - but must keep it in Sport mode, or it will get me injured or killed as the ASS and dual clutch are SO slow from a stop as to be dangerous. I haven’t driven a JCW Countryman, but I’d love to. For my daily driving purposes, the X3M is too big, the M5 wagon is AWESOME but is too expensive for me ($140k), so it’s a bit of a conundrum.
I have this exact JCW Countryman (though red roof/mirrors) and I absolutely love it. My 3rd MINI after a bit of a hiatus and I can’t help but have fun when I’m in it. The daisy on the infotainment screen, I took as some “flower power” 😂
I drove one of these a couple of weeks ago just about fully loaded with the larger wheels. I thought it was an incredible price at $41k, big on the inside, dripping with personality and the materials were upscale and innovative. The performance was fast! Most of all I felt like I was driving something 10 years into the future especially with the infotainment screen and the interior's forward thinking design. But I was amazed how cumbersome it was to drive. It felt HUGE (but it’s not). I was nervous just trying to navigate the parking lot, let alone the city. Any feedback on that? Maybe it was just me. 🤷♂️
The exterior design I think lends itself to making the car feel big - I was shocked how big it looked when I first saw it. I didn’t drive much at all in the city so I can’t speak to that but in the suburbs the size faded away after a little bit
It’s quirky.. I had one. Fun to drive.. especially the countryman All4. A crotch rocket on 4 wheels. Handling performance as good as the BMW.. I loved driving but maintenance is a must and definitely expensive when it needs to be done. In comparison some maintenance is more expensive than the BMW.
Always enjoy your reviews, Matt! This one is great. I have the new Countryman S which has 241 horses but the same torque as the JCW version in this review. I love the Countryman S - the interiors are very similar. MINI don’t use leather anymore- it’s all vegan. They call it Vescin. It feels pretty darn good for a pleather! I don’t mine the BMW switchgear - makes sense not to reinvent the wheel 😊, because as you said, there is so much MINI-specific design and quirkiness. I never noticed the daisy Easter egg until I saw your review today. Very quirky! I sold an almost new 2024 Subaru Forester because I fell in love with the new Countryman. Feels like stepping 10 years into the future compared with the Subaru. It is mostly a German brand now of course, but I’ve watched loads of videos about this new German built Countryman and they did work with MINI HQ in Oxford, England on the design. So I’d say it has a German head and British heart! Thanks for an enjoyable and informative review!
this is BARGAIN compared to MERCEDES and BMW counterparts! it's amazing to see this car at 51k! for a JCW variant! I just wish that all BMW Dealers also serviced and sold Mini coopers... not many mini cooper dealers around
Drove a Countryman All4 S last weekend. Absolutely loved the pickup, the handling, the different driving modes, the quirkiness, and the looks. A+! Hated that everything is controlled via the big touch pad. I dont want to fiddle through menus when I am driving, and this touchpad was clunkier than most (looked fun, but not practical). Also, to me, the point of the Mini Cooper is that it looks like a ... Mini Cooper; with classic round shapes and bold stripes. This model looks like a cousin twice removed. The exterior does not match the quirkiness of the interior.
I've heard / read that there's ambient lighting under the fabric-like material in the interior, but I can't find video/picture evidence of this. Could you do a nighttime PoV of the interior to show these off?
The lighting actually projects onto the dash fabric from behind the center display. Different colors and patterns based on the "experience" selected by toggling the switch
We don’t really have the jcw in Ontario yet but I did try the countryman S and it drives pretty nice and technology wise is great and better but I’m glad I got my F60 JCW before they didn’t have any new ones
We actually have JCW since end of May. It's a little rocket, very torquey and more than enough power for daily use. Drives a bit better, more nimble than X1/X2 35i in my opinion. Center console loads very slow at startup, but besides that not much to complain so far.
@@ghutchison1I first bought the 2023 countryman S and I loved it but once I tested the jcw version I was sold the performance of the jcw is insane compared to the S but the new countryman S 2025 are actually pretty quick aswell
Where have you heard, that a plug-in-hybrid version is coming? I have been hoping that they make the Countryman available as a PHEV, since that is exactly what I'm looking for, but I couldn't find anything about this topic.
You won’t want that. I believe it won’t be the same. It’ll be heavier and maintenance will probably become alot more costly.. you have to do the preventative maintenance on this one.. it definitely has to be done … and it can be pretty pricey when it needs to be done. I did enjoy it. Had one for 5 years ..
I don't know why but as a Mini fan I feel so mixed on this. I would turn the piped in audio off if possible. I would much rather see something like an adaptive exhaust system (it is a JCW after all). I also would take the M series X1 over this since Mini tend to not do as well as BMW on resale (even JCW when compared to an M Series car). That Countryman just feels like a causally dressed X series that is trying to call back some of that British charm without making the accountants upset. Mini sometimes now feels like the Scion of BMW.
Fully loaded JCW $50K, fully loaded X1 M35 $59K. I’m getting another Mini Countryman!!! In its Class: X1, X2, GLA, XT4, XC40, UX, NX, Q2 and probably some French or Italian and Premium VW we don’t get in America.
@@hxxxhyyy3208 Same with the new BMW 2 model in hatch which is 90k for the all wheel drive version with all the same engine and running gear but smaller and I don't think looks as good. So 10k saving on a better looking bigger car is kinda a no brainer, just needs a set of H&R springs.
Exhaust is eh … wish it had the classic jcw pops and gurgles … nothing a slight tune , muffler delete and straight pipe upgrade can fix … Other then that it’s a pretty dope car
![BLACK BAG - Official Trailer [HD] - Only in Theaters March 14](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Du0Xp8WX_7I/mqdefault.jpg)
Special thanks to our Patreons for their support of the channel! Countryman JCW or X1 M35i?
X2m35i
X1 M35i Without a question
True
There is no way any one would know so it doesn’t really count
I have a 2024 X1m35, and my wife has a 2025 countryman All4 EV, and taking the battery vs ICE out of the equation, there are a few things to note: The Countryman has none of the bugs and annoyances in its MiniOS9 that the Bimmer has with BMWOS9. The X1 has a slightly more expensive feeling ride quality, but primarily noted only when comparing them back to back. The materials in the Bimmer are a bit more upscale, but the Mini’s interior is subjectively much more fun. The exterior look of these two vehicles is quite different, and the Mini IMO is a bit more “ordinary.” However, it is absolutely more fun to drive. If I’m running errands or in the mood for an anytime ride, I tend to grab the Mini, if it’s available. If I’m going for an early morning canyon run and I’m not going to take one of my M cars, I will take the X1m35 - but must keep it in Sport mode, or it will get me injured or killed as the ASS and dual clutch are SO slow from a stop as to be dangerous. I haven’t driven a JCW Countryman, but I’d love to. For my daily driving purposes, the X3M is too big, the M5 wagon is AWESOME but is too expensive for me ($140k), so it’s a bit of a conundrum.
I have this exact JCW Countryman (though red roof/mirrors) and I absolutely love it. My 3rd MINI after a bit of a hiatus and I can’t help but have fun when I’m in it. The daisy on the infotainment screen, I took as some “flower power” 😂
Unless you drive tons of BMWs there is no way a normal person would know which components are sourced from other brands.
you're probably right - sometimes it's hard to put myself in the mindset of "people get new cars every few years, not every week" lol oops
lol facts …
I drove one of these a couple of weeks ago just about fully loaded with the larger wheels. I thought it was an incredible price at $41k, big on the inside, dripping with personality and the materials were upscale and innovative. The performance was fast! Most of all I felt like I was driving something 10 years into the future especially with the infotainment screen and the interior's forward thinking design. But I was amazed how cumbersome it was to drive. It felt HUGE (but it’s not). I was nervous just trying to navigate the parking lot, let alone the city. Any feedback on that? Maybe it was just me. 🤷♂️
The exterior design I think lends itself to making the car feel big - I was shocked how big it looked when I first saw it. I didn’t drive much at all in the city so I can’t speak to that but in the suburbs the size faded away after a little bit
It’s quirky.. I had one. Fun to drive.. especially the countryman All4. A crotch rocket on 4 wheels. Handling performance as good as the BMW.. I loved driving but maintenance is a must and definitely expensive when it needs to be done. In comparison some maintenance is more expensive than the BMW.
This need physical hvac switches, I will never want touch buttons for that stuff
Always enjoy your reviews, Matt! This one is great. I have the new Countryman S which has 241 horses but the same torque as the JCW version in this review. I love the Countryman S - the interiors are very similar. MINI don’t use leather anymore- it’s all vegan. They call it Vescin. It feels pretty darn good for a pleather! I don’t mine the BMW switchgear - makes sense not to reinvent the wheel 😊, because as you said, there is so much MINI-specific design and quirkiness. I never noticed the daisy Easter egg until I saw your review today. Very quirky! I sold an almost new 2024 Subaru Forester because I fell in love with the new Countryman. Feels like stepping 10 years into the future compared with the Subaru.
It is mostly a German brand now of course, but I’ve watched loads of videos about this new German built Countryman and they did work with MINI HQ in Oxford, England on the design. So I’d say it has a German head and British heart! Thanks for an enjoyable and informative review!
😁🫶
this is BARGAIN compared to MERCEDES and BMW counterparts! it's amazing to see this car at 51k! for a JCW variant! I just wish that all BMW Dealers also serviced and sold Mini coopers... not many mini cooper dealers around
Thanks for ypur review. Ordering one this monday ❤
Niiiiceeee
Drove a Countryman All4 S last weekend. Absolutely loved the pickup, the handling, the different driving modes, the quirkiness, and the looks. A+!
Hated that everything is controlled via the big touch pad. I dont want to fiddle through menus when I am driving, and this touchpad was clunkier than most (looked fun, but not practical).
Also, to me, the point of the Mini Cooper is that it looks like a ... Mini Cooper; with classic round shapes and bold stripes. This model looks like a cousin twice removed. The exterior does not match the quirkiness of the interior.
On our 2025 Mini Countryman, we talk to the car for anything you’d touch the display for. So, the touch screen isn’t an issue.
Also touch screen while driver not as convenient as old BMW control before
you should see the dash at night. different modes light it up in fun, different ways
I've heard / read that there's ambient lighting under the fabric-like material in the interior, but I can't find video/picture evidence of this. Could you do a nighttime PoV of the interior to show these off?
The lighting actually projects onto the dash fabric from behind the center display. Different colors and patterns based on the "experience" selected by toggling the switch
I love it so I'm off to a test drive this weekend.
have fun!
@@dwnshft Thanks!
The hardest decision imma make is to get the JCW or the S. I could live without the sportyness... but also, its always nice to have.
We don’t really have the jcw in Ontario yet but I did try the countryman S and it drives pretty nice and technology wise is great and better but I’m glad I got my F60 JCW before they didn’t have any new ones
We actually have JCW since end of May. It's a little rocket, very torquey and more than enough power for daily use. Drives a bit better, more nimble than X1/X2 35i in my opinion. Center console loads very slow at startup, but besides that not much to complain so far.
I was considering the F60 JCW when they went on sale, but I have been very happy with the Countryman S.
@@StereoHound it is a great car and really good tech. I was surprised when the car did the lane changes for me when on autopilot
@@ghutchison1I first bought the 2023 countryman S and I loved it but once I tested the jcw version I was sold the performance of the jcw is insane compared to the S but the new countryman S 2025 are actually pretty quick aswell
Is the 369 camera and active driver assist standard on the jcw
In Europe its around 60k euros and that interior is worth a 15-20k car in my opinion
Ordered one today
nice! enjoy!
Where have you heard, that a plug-in-hybrid version is coming? I have been hoping that they make the Countryman available as a PHEV, since that is exactly what I'm looking for, but I couldn't find anything about this topic.
You won’t want that. I believe it won’t be the same. It’ll be heavier and maintenance will probably become alot more costly.. you have to do the preventative maintenance on this one.. it definitely has to be done … and it can be pretty pricey when it needs to be done. I did enjoy it. Had one for 5 years ..
I don't know why but as a Mini fan I feel so mixed on this. I would turn the piped in audio off if possible. I would much rather see something like an adaptive exhaust system (it is a JCW after all). I also would take the M series X1 over this since Mini tend to not do as well as BMW on resale (even JCW when compared to an M Series car). That Countryman just feels like a causally dressed X series that is trying to call back some of that British charm without making the accountants upset. Mini sometimes now feels like the Scion of BMW.
Yeah you could turn off the engine audio sound
You're a car guy, that's why you notice the BMW'isms.. Regular people like me wouldnt notice or know.. As long as the finishes look premium, I'm good.
Wish this came in Rebel Green. Why can't the 2 dr. JCW get the same power as this? Seems like the Countryman JCW will be quicker than the 2 Dr. JCW.
How harsh is the ride really? Is it harsh enough that you'd consider getting the smaller wheels?
it's not that bad honestly - it's going to be fine to have your family in i'm thinkin
Fully loaded JCW $50K, fully loaded X1 M35 $59K. I’m getting another Mini Countryman!!!
In its Class: X1, X2, GLA, XT4, XC40, UX, NX, Q2 and probably some French or Italian and Premium VW we don’t get in America.
Here in Australia, a fully loaded countryman costs AUD$80k, and a M35 X1/X2 costs AUD$100k+.
@@hxxxhyyy3208 Same with the new BMW 2 model in hatch which is 90k for the all wheel drive version with all the same engine and running gear but smaller and I don't think looks as good. So 10k saving on a better looking bigger car is kinda a no brainer, just needs a set of H&R springs.
So shit that they still don’t do a rear mount tow bar for mtb rack!
O'Connell Spring
Exhaust is eh … wish it had the classic jcw pops and gurgles … nothing a slight tune , muffler delete and straight pipe upgrade can fix …
Other then that it’s a pretty dope car
It’s those funny looking wheels
EV and hybridized veresions will come with 1/2 ton more weight. Ummmm - no thank you. I’ll take the ICE one.
Sincere Lakes
Sheridan Springs
Lueilwitz Hollow
Kelton Fork
its quirky because its essentially a British designed car built in England, using bmw parts.
Ritchie Field
Oswald Freeway
Big inside /ugly out side. BMW-hands off!
McKenzie Plains
Turcotte Landing
Beahan Turnpike
Gladyce Flats
Kayli Neck
Hartmann Cape
Spencer Underpass
Fadel Track
Reilly Circle
Kirlin Cove
Kailee Light
Hand Trafficway
Karlee Mall
Tyrese Divide
Wisozk Village
Interior is really disappointing. No rev counter and speedometer as in the older JCW Countryman
Veronica Wall
Nikolaus Turnpike
Adell Highway
Hate the fabric dash!
Cesar Mountains
Jacobson Ranch
Delia Hills
Farrell River
Torphy Mount
Suscrito 😊
Sauer Lodge
Torrey Park
Gusikowski Crest
Ward Orchard
Brian Coves
Gulgowski Throughway
Kovacek Mill
VonRueden Fields
Kelvin Burg
Roger Station
Alene Landing
Misael Lodge
SUPER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Zane Knolls
I’m pretty certain this doesn’t have a DCT. It’s a ZF8 torque-converter automatic transmission. Not even BMW M cars get DCTs anymore.
I think the front wheel drive bmws get DCT if I am not mistaken
Oh that’s interesting, I didn’t know that
It’s a DCT the bigger bmw cars have the ZF
Erica Village
Brakus Ramp
Luna Drive
Rita Fields
Brittany Throughway
Dicki Villages
Ephraim Way
Vern Motorway
Zemlak Mill
Kutch Dale
Lilyan Junctions
Hamill Coves
You should have busted out your British accent for this review . .It's a Mini for crying out loud! :)
lol I did it for the Clubman video yesterday!
@@dwnshft Oh that’s fab… can’t wait to see it! Cheers!
Zelma Fords
Monte Via
Larson Land
Daniel Via
Hyman Unions
You want it to come in hybrid and all electric...What? Talk about bullsh!tting
JUST PUT A BIGGER MOTOR WE DONT NEED NO EVS OR HYBRID CRAP........WERE OVER THEIR MIND CONTROL CRAP....
This new interior is severely bland compared to the previous generation. BMW fails again
Oberbrunner Mill