Just picked up a 2014 Mini Countryman S ALL4. I was wondering what are the general opinions of what are MUST do in terms of upgrades? Eventually, I'd like to change the exhaust system, air intake and maybe even have the ecu reflashed. Whatever suggestions you have I would definitely appreciate.

 

The only mod that MUST be done, IMHO:

- Drive the car. Enjoy the living daylights out of it.

All other mods are in support of that one, and none are necessary.

 

It's a deep rabbit hole once you get started. This is the general order I'd recommend based on bang per buck:

1. Torque arm insert (if manual)
2. Short shifter (if manual)
3. JB+
4. Rear sway bar/front strut brace
5. Intercooler
6. Intake/exhaust

 

+1 to all of that. But don't change your intake, just add a K&N panel filter since the stock air box is the truest form of a "CAI". Best bang for the buck, sway bar:-).