About this episode
See our car ratings and reviews at: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Mini's largest SUV, the Countryman, has been thoroughly redesigned. For 2025, it's bigger in almost every dimension. This week, we share our first impressions of the Countryman, including its performance, driving characteristics, fashionable interior with unique design cues, and whether it still upholds its British nostalgia feel. We also answer audience questions, including whether white cars are safer on the road, plus we explain what a "pre-delivery service charge" is. SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 - Introduction 00:15 - Overview: 2025 Mini Countryman 01:51 - Center Screen 04:03 - Driving Dynamics 06:00 - Dual-Clutch Transmission 07:37 - Engine Stop/Start Systm 08:27 - Go Kart Setting 11:19 - Interior Cameras 13:52 - Software 16:14 - Seats 16:51 - More Transmission 17:25 - The Cabin 18:30 - Our Overall Thoughts 19:48 - Question #1: Are white cars safer than other colors? 23:01 - Question #2: What is a "pre-delivery service charge" that dealers are charging? ---------------------------------- First Drive: 2025 Mini Countryman Is Roomy, but There's Room for Improvement https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2025-mini-countryman-review-a5534014106/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT 2025 Mini Countryman https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mini/cooper-countryman/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Preview: Mini Continues Its All-Electric March With the Aceman Small Crossover https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/mini-aceman-review-a5304694715/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Guide to Cars With Advanced Safety Systems https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/cars-with-advanced-safety-systems-a7292621135/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT