2023 Mini John Cooper Works Countryman Performance

One of the main reasons to opt for the JCW Countryman is its welcome step up in power and performance. The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine sends power to all four corners for maximum grip. This power plant produces 301 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque, allowing the crossover to sprint from 0-60 mph in a claimed 4.9 seconds. As if that's not quick enough, some independent tests have shown it to be even faster, making it one of the best performers in the segment. Even the ballistic Mini John Cooper Works GP can't outrun this Countryman up to 60 mph. If you have the chance to take the JCW to a safe, controlled environment, you'll be able to reach a top speed of 155 mph. Even the turbocharged Mazda CX-30, one of the most powerful small SUVs around, can't match the Mini's eagerness off the mark. Paired with a quick-shifting automatic transmission and sharp handling, the Mini is an unusually fun crossover.

Only one powertrain is on offer for the Mini JCW Countryman, not that you'd need anything more than this. The BMW-derived 2.0-liter TwinPower turbocharged four-cylinder engine generates 301 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque. It's exclusively paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Naturally, you can take control using the steering-mounted paddle shifters.

Our test drive review of the Mini John Cooper Works Countryman revealed a crossover that's not only quick off the mark, but one that also emits a sporty exhaust note when Sport mode is activated. When driven more sedately, the engine is pretty refined for a four-pot, but most of the time, you'll want to make full use of the even spread of torque and the sharp throttle response. The eight-speeder can't fully replace the tactility of a manual, but it's a responsive gearbox when you need it to be.

The JCW Countryman's fuel consumption is almost identical to the JCW Clubman. According to the EPA, the crossover will return gas mileage numbers of 24/30/26 mpg city/highway/combined. That's decent, considering the power and performance on tap. A 16.1-gallon gas tank is equipped, so that should suffice for a mixed driving range of approximately 418 miles. During our week with the JCW Countryman, we came in nearer 22 mpg overall, but we hardly touched a freeway and drove many miles in the spirit JCW intended.