The second-generation Mini Countryman is now available with a diesel engine as well. The diesel version, termed as SD, has work cut out for itself. Retaining the classy and retro looks of the Mini, the SD Countryman is bigger in dimensions than the original Mini Cooper ever was. Offering genuinely enough space and practicality, the second generation car could well be defined as a luxury SUV. With enough space for a family, the SD Countryman is also incredibly fun to drive. Measuring 4299mm in length and 1822mm in width, the SD Countryman, over the petrol version, presents practicality. Assembled locally, there’s not much kit to choose from, but it is possible to choose the colour. The specs are more or less fixed, and in line with the ‘medium’-trim level. 

0 TO 100KMPH IN 7.7 SEC
There’s enough exterior oomph in the form of bonnet stripes and a contrast roof. The wheels are of 17-inch dia and go well with the overall dimensions of the car even if they would make for a slightly subdued appearance. Get behind the wheel, and the 6.5-inch touchscreen draws attention. There’s no choice for the 8.8-inch unit. The click-wheel controller for the system too is smaller and does not feature a touchpad. Lacking gearshift paddles and a rear-view camera, the SD Countryman comes with powered front seats, which have a memory. Laced with a two-piece panoramic sunroof, the car provides good space for two people at the back. Three could be a squeeze as the rear air-con vents rob the middle seat of some vital leg space. Offering a boot space of 450-litres with the rear seats in place, and of  1390-litre with the rear seats folded, the SD Countryman is powered by a more powerful 190bhp 2-litre turbo-diesel engine. Against a kerb weight of an estimated 1.5-tonnes, the car feels quick. Clocking 0 to 100kmph in 7.7 seconds, it does produce some torque steer when the pedal is pushed hard for a quick launch. Doing a splendid job is the eight-speed ZF auto-box. It is intuitive and plays a key role in presenting an exciting driving experience. Extending a go-kart-like driving feel, the car, keeping true to the Mini trait, is terrific fun to drive. 

BRAKES EXERT A STRONG BITE
With a steering that is full of life, the SD Countryman shrinks around the driver, feeling much smaller than it really is. The well-weighted feel and high level of body control inspire confidence to push the car through tightening bends, and on twisty mountain roads. When the need to shed speed arises, the brakes exert a strong bite. One does get used to, but initially, the bite the brakes exert can be a bit overwhelming. The ride quality has a firm edge to it. At low speeds, the car tends to thump over bumps. As speeds rise, the ride quality too improves drastically. The steering feels a bit on the heavy side but that does not take away the fun of shooting ahead as the signal goes green. There’s little doubt that the SD Countryman is meant for highways and open countryside roads. 

VERDICT
At Rs 37.5 lakh ex-showroom approx, the car may not measure up as effectively against the likes of Mercedes GLA, Audi Q3, Volvo XC40, or BMW X1. It simply does not have the ground clearance or the all-wheel driveability that these luxury SUVs may have, but then the SD Countryman should not be looked through the same filter. Not exactly lacking from a kit or equipment point of view even though it could be had with many more options to choose from, the car makes a style statement like no other. Driving it is an absolute pleasure. The car provides enough space for five and makes a good urban family crossover with style, panache, and performance.  

Pros: Style, performance, handling
Cons: Price