2012 MINI Cooper Countryman S ALL4

The Countryman is MINI's first SUV, a small crossover that trades some of the brand's usual compactness for more space and a higher ride. It keeps the playful, go-kart feel MINI is known for, though the added height and weight make it a touch less nimble than a standard Cooper. Inside, you get the familiar round central speedometer and toggle switches, with room for four adults and a useful amount of cargo space. For an SUV, the Countryman is fairly easy on fuel, and its compact size keeps insurance and parking costs reasonable. The S ALL4 is the one to pick if you want all-weather grip and more power than the base Cooper Countryman, without stepping up to the John Cooper Works. Its 1.6L I4 makes 181 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed manual and all-wheel drive that gives you confident traction on wet or snowy roads, and it still returns 28 mpg combined. This trim adds a sport button that sharpens throttle response, making the Countryman feel even more eager when you want to have fun.