Hey guys! Today, we’re diving deep into the 2022 MINI Countryman ALL4. If you're wondering whether this quirky crossover is worth your hard-earned cash, stick around. We’ll be covering everything from its performance and handling to its interior comfort and tech features. By the end of this review, you'll have a clear picture of whether the 2022 MINI Countryman ALL4 is the right fit for you. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Overview of the 2022 MINI Countryman ALL4

The 2022 MINI Countryman ALL4 is the largest model in the MINI lineup, offering a blend of iconic British styling and practical crossover capabilities. It's essentially a MINI on steroids, providing more space for passengers and cargo while retaining the brand's signature fun-to-drive character. The ALL4 designation indicates that it comes equipped with an all-wheel-drive system, enhancing its traction and stability in various driving conditions. This makes it a compelling option for those who live in areas with inclement weather or who occasionally venture off the beaten path.

This model year brings a few updates, including some minor styling tweaks and enhancements to the infotainment system. However, the core appeal of the Countryman remains the same: a unique blend of style, practicality, and engaging driving dynamics. It competes in a crowded segment with rivals like the BMW X1, Audi Q3, and Volvo XC40, all of which offer their own distinct advantages. However, the Countryman stands out with its distinctive design and playful personality.

Exterior Design

The exterior of the 2022 MINI Countryman ALL4 is instantly recognizable, with its upright stance, round headlights, and distinctive grille. The ALL4 version adds some rugged touches, such as plastic cladding around the wheel arches and a slightly raised ride height, giving it a more adventurous look. The overall design is unmistakably MINI, but with a more substantial presence on the road. You'll either love it or hate it, but there's no denying that it stands out from the crowd.

One of the key highlights is the attention to detail. From the Union Jack taillights to the quirky door handles, every element of the exterior design is carefully considered. The available color options are also a standout feature, with a range of vibrant and unique hues that allow you to personalize your Countryman to your liking. Whether you prefer a classic British Racing Green or a bold Chili Red, there's a color option to suit your taste. The design is more than just aesthetics; it represents a lifestyle.

Interior Design and Comfort

Stepping inside the 2022 MINI Countryman ALL4, you're greeted by a cabin that's both stylish and functional. The design is classic MINI, with a large circular infotainment display in the center of the dashboard and toggle switches for various functions. The materials are generally of good quality, although some may find the abundance of plastic a bit underwhelming, especially considering the price point. Overall, the interior strikes a good balance between form and function.

Comfort is another area where the Countryman shines. The front seats are supportive and offer plenty of adjustments, making them suitable for long journeys. The rear seats are also surprisingly spacious, with enough legroom and headroom to accommodate adults comfortably. The ALL4 model also includes a panoramic sunroof, which adds to the sense of airiness and space inside the cabin. If you are planning to use this car for family trips, then the back seat comfort is a huge plus.

Technology and Features

When it comes to technology, the 2022 MINI Countryman ALL4 offers a decent array of features. The infotainment system is centered around an 8.8-inch touchscreen display, which is relatively easy to use, although some may find the graphics a bit dated. Apple CarPlay is standard, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. However, Android Auto is still not available, which is a notable omission.

Other notable tech features include a digital instrument cluster, which provides clear and concise information to the driver, as well as a head-up display, which projects essential data onto the windshield. The Countryman also comes standard with a suite of driver-assistance features, such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. Adaptive cruise control is available as an option, which can make highway driving a breeze. For those who love staying connected, the Countryman has you covered.

Performance and Handling

Let's talk about how the 2022 MINI Countryman ALL4 performs on the road. Under the hood, you'll find a turbocharged engine that delivers a good balance of power and fuel efficiency. The ALL4 system provides added traction, making it confident in all weather conditions. The Countryman retains the MINI's signature go-kart-like handling, making it fun to drive on twisty roads. It's not the fastest or most powerful crossover in its class, but it's certainly one of the most engaging.

Engine Options and Fuel Economy

The 2022 MINI Countryman ALL4 is available with several engine options, ranging from a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder to a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. The base engine provides adequate power for everyday driving, while the larger engine delivers more spirited performance. The ALL4 system is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth and responsive shifts. The fuel economy is decent, with the base engine achieving around 26 mpg combined. Choosing a more powerful engine will affect fuel economy.

The plug-in hybrid version of the Countryman is also available, which combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with an electric motor. This provides a total system output of 221 horsepower and offers an all-electric range of around 17 miles. The plug-in hybrid is a great option for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on fuel. The availability of various engine options makes this car versatile.

Driving Experience

Behind the wheel, the 2022 MINI Countryman ALL4 is a joy to drive. The steering is precise and responsive, and the suspension is well-tuned, providing a good balance between comfort and handling. The ALL4 system provides added confidence in slippery conditions, making it a great choice for those who live in areas with snow or rain. The Countryman is also surprisingly agile, feeling smaller and more nimble than it actually is. No doubt, this car provides you with an amazing driving experience.

One of the key highlights of the driving experience is the MINI's signature go-kart-like handling. The Countryman corners flat and feels eager to change direction. The turbocharged engine provides plenty of torque, making it easy to accelerate out of corners. The exhaust note is also surprisingly sporty, adding to the overall sense of fun. If you're looking for a crossover that's fun to drive, the Countryman should definitely be on your list.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced perspective, let's take a look at the pros and cons of the 2022 MINI Countryman ALL4.

Pros

• Unique and stylish design
• Fun-to-drive handling
• Spacious interior
• Available all-wheel drive
• Decent fuel economy

Cons

• Android Auto not available
• Some may find the ride too firm
• Relatively expensive compared to rivals
• Some cheap interior plastics
• Infotainment system could be more user-friendly

Final Verdict

So, is the 2022 MINI Countryman ALL4 worth it? Ultimately, that depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a stylish and fun-to-drive crossover with available all-wheel drive, then the Countryman is definitely worth considering. It offers a unique blend of practicality and personality that's hard to find elsewhere. However, if you prioritize value and cutting-edge technology, then you may want to explore other options.

The 2022 MINI Countryman ALL4 isn't perfect, but it offers a unique driving experience with its blend of British charm, spirited performance, and practical features. If you value distinct styling and engaging handling, it’s a strong contender in the compact crossover market. Just be sure to weigh its quirks against your priorities to see if it’s the right fit for you. Happy driving, guys!