From the current issue of Road & Track

http://www.roadandtrack.com/tests/lo...ountryman-all4

Test Car Wrapup: 2011 Mini Cooper S Countryman ALL4 - Long-Term Road Tests

Mini mediocrity.

 

Overall cost for 25,901 miles
$11,154

pretty depressing.

 

I think they got it exactly right. The engine mated with the manual transmission doesn't have enough torque off the line. The interior design features are quirky and sometimes a pain. It's a fair review and a cautionary tale worthy of consideration for potential purchasers of the ALL4 manual. The ALL4 automatic is a little more forgiving and the CMS doesn't have some of the issues because of its FWD.
Those of us who like the neutral, non-torque-steer handling of the ALL4 have had to accept these characteristics.
I'm impressed by their brief summary review that catches a lot of issues.

 

"We hesitate to admit this but here goes: The automatic transmission option might have been a better choice, as it masks the off-line torque deficit of the overwhelmed 1.6-liter engine. "

Which causes the clutch failures. This shortcoming has been identified in multiple reviews. BMW/Mini? Bueller? Bueller?

Other than engaging the clutch from a stop- I love driving mine! And the quirks I am living with.

 

At least their clutch didn't blow up.

 

I agree completely.

Stunning how MINI keeps their head in the sand regarding the myriad clutch complaints...