Local car rental place has CM Cooper for rental. Since the short test drive at the dealership never gives you the chance to really soak in, I rented on e before I sign the order sheet.

I have to say... I am Sold!!! (though it's not the S I will be ordering) Driving impression later... it's time for me to go out and drive more before I return later today.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Driving Impression

First, this is actually the first time I had a 'MINI' for full 24 hours. My prior encounters were short test drives at dealerships or being a driver for a trip in my friends Mini.

I had driven Countryman Cooper and Cooper S at the dealership for a test drive. But such a short ride just isn't enough for me to formulate a solid idea on how the car would behave in day to day basis and in real driving conditions including freeway, traffic, mountain road, etc.

So, when I found out local car rental company, Midway, has a Countryman available, I dropped by on this Saturday afternoon. The initial quote was $99/day. Being Saturday afternoon, with no reservation on the car, I was able to get it for $80, and after thinking for 2 seconds, I signed the rental agreement!
The first thing I notice is the ease of ingress and egress due to higher roof. The visibility through front windshield is rather excellent as you are sitting slightly higher than normal sedans/Mini Cooper but not as high as.. say 4 Runner/FJ Cruiser.

When I test drove the regular Countryman at the dealership prior, its non-turbo engine with only 121hp engine felt, well, underwhelming. It could have been because it was right after driving the S with turbo engine and my expectation that non-turbo would be a turd.

However, this time around, what I notice is different feeling than before: actually quite peppy and adequate. It does not have punch start like the S and definitely does not push my body backward as it accelerates, but it is not as bad as I thought. It is no way powerful nor fast, and I really have to put the engine to work, making it roar and my hands constantly fiddling with paddle shifters on the steering wheel redlining constantly. Entering the fast moving freeway can be a bit challenging as it takes some time for it to reach the desired speed, but once it has momentum, quick down shift (or two) and it will push itself forward with some effort. I found that I do not have to be afraid of accelerating to pass, even though it will tell other driver around me that I am trying very hard - and they better not be driving VW GTI (and any other faster cars!)

The paddle shifters work quite well. Push and Pull action is a bit weird as I was expecting Up shift/Downshift on each side. Once you get a bit used to it though, it really becomes handy and engaging especially when I was in 'Sport' mode myself.

In the end, I will get S model with turbo as it suits my 'desire' better, but with normal driving, I find the 1.6 liter mill completely adequate and maybe just enough.

Then how does it handle? Just like how a higher and heavier Mini would. Body roll is something I instantly notice, for a MINI. Mind you, it is not a lot, but you do definitely notice. Also, it does not turn as quick as smaller MINI Hardtop on a tight corner, but once again, that is expected due to the size of the car. There is one corner around my house that I take my GTI pretty fast through the turn. The Countryman actually does it almost better as it is take the corner in a composed manner and 17" tires has enough grip. Also just like my GTI, I have no problem tossing the Countryman through freeway interchange ramp at double the posted speed limit (well maybe slightly less than double speed). However, it does feels a bit weird as I am sitting higher than the GTI.

I do like the steering feel in the sport mode, as it really tightens up the ratio and feels weighted and quite direct, albeit a bit too electronic.

It do hear more road noise (More like tire noise) than my GTI with 18inch summer only tires. I assume this is due to the run flat all MINI comes with as standard. Also, over the small bump on the freeway, the car 'shifts' a bit which can freak the unprepared. I will definitely consider switching to traditional tires and carrying tire fix kit. (Having AAA plus also helps)

So.. Do I like it enough to sign the deal? Yes, I say so. I am not looking for a track car nor a powerful sedan. It is a rightfully sized hatchback with 4 proper doors and enough driving dynamics that won't bore me. I also can't help myself liking how it looks inside and out. I can of course buy a slightly bigger, better equipped car for less, but MINI plays with my inner senses more than those. Yes, desire over rationality.

================================================== ========================

 

Can't wait for the write up!

 

What rental agency has the CM? I went to the web site for Midway but did not see the CM listed. Do they have another location? I would like to rent it for a day and get a good feel for the car before buying. I would like to take it on the freeway and some mountain roads.


UPDATE: OK, Just found it, was with the Hybrid cars. almost $175 for a day

 

I walked in to N Hollywood location. Quoted me for $99/day. It was Saturday afternoon meaning the car will just sit collecting dust at least till Monday if I don't rent. Let's just say I got it a lot cheaper! (talk to Jung at Noho location) They did say the car is booked starting next Thurday for three weeks!

And yeah exactly. It's a great way to get a good feel for the car in your normal day.

 

silvernuke, if you dont mind me asking, how much did you rent it for per day?

 

I paid $80/day.

 

I just found out Black & White car rental in Beverly Hills also have Countryman S if anyone in LA area is interested in renting one.

It's a Black one.

This is the quote. I am sure you can negotiate a deal with them!

================================================== =

Yes we do, $125 per day on the Countryman S and $99 for regular Countryman.


Dan Darvish
Black and White Car Rental
"From the Ordinary to the Extraordinary"

Mobile 310-907-6000
Office 310-276-0202

Email dan@bwrac.com
Web www.bwrentacar.com

RENTAL OFFICE
8800 Burton Way
Beverly Hills CA 90211
Office: (310) 274-1144
Fax: (310) 271-0791
General E-mail: info@bwrac.com This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Office Hours

Monday - Friday 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Saturday - 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday- 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM

 

Your driving impressions???

 

Sorry.. I will write it up with many pictures..
Been a bit busy

 

Driving Impression added as promised. Pix to follow tonight

 

Good stuff. Thanks! Test driving one tomorrow. Can't wait...

 

Well stated.

 

here are some photos~

 

and more

 

Thanks for the great review and pics! How's the stock stereo? I didn't get the HK and it may be my only regret. Everything else on a base CM I can live with and hoping mine comes with the paddle shifters, seems like some do and some don't on the base CM's.

 

"Yes, desire over rationality."

There is nothing irrational about paying more to enjoy yourself.