When we think of road trips across the scenic routes of Mpumalanga, a key question arises – what vehicle is best suited for both performance and comfort? Enter the latest MINI Countryman S ALL4, a bigger and distinctively minimalist crossover that confidently fuses the go-kart spirit of the MINI with the practicality and space required for long-distance travel.
A road trip to the country is always good for the spirit, made all the better (or worse) for two factors: the car you select for the journey and, naturally, the destination.
That’s why, when MINI South Africa offered us the third-generation Countryman S ALL4 for a weekend getaway to the famed Walkersons Hotel & Spa, we knew we were in for a great ride and an even better getaway.
Our journey started in the bustling city of Pretoria, where the road gradually leads you away from urban life and into the peaceful countryside via the N4 highway – one of the best in the country in terms of road quality. The destination: Dullstroom, a beloved highland town famed for its misty mornings, trout-fishing, and the luxurious Walkersons Hotel & Spa. At approximately 250 kilometres away, this road trip provides a mix of highway stretches and mountain twists – perfect terrain to test the capabilities of the MINI Countryman S ALL4.
ON THE ROAD: PRETORIA TO DULLSTROOM
The route from Pretoria to Dullstroom is as much about appreciating the changing landscape as it is about the car beneath you. The MINI Countryman S ALL4, with its 2.0-litre turbocharged engine delivering 141 kW and 280 Nm of torque, felt energetic and responsive when we hit the highway. The MINI’s familiar go-kart handling makes it feel nimble despite its size, allowing for quick overtakes and making short work of slower-moving vehicles. It’s an SUV that doesn’t forget its MINI DNA.
As you approach the highlands and the road begins to twist and turn, the Countryman’s All4 all-wheel-drive system becomes even more valuable. The system seamlessly shifts power between the front and rear wheels, ensuring superior traction on the sometimes slick or uneven surfaces of Mpumalanga’s countryside roads. There’s a clear sense of control, even when you tackle the tightest corners, making the entire drive feel engaging rather than tiring.
The choice of driving modes also allows for a tailored experience. We switched between Mid mode, ideal for relaxed cruising, and Sport mode when the road opened up. In Sport, the throttle becomes more responsive, the steering more precise, and the exhaust emits a subtle growl, reminding you that despite being a crossover, the MINI Countryman S still likes to play.
THE COMFORT FACTOR
For long journeys, comfort is as crucial as performance, and here, the MINI Countryman S ALL4 shines. Despite its compact SUV status, there’s ample room inside the cabin, especially for a vehicle often seen as quirky and fun. The seating is supportive, and the faux-leather upholstery feels premium. There’s enough legroom to accommodate adults in the back seats without the usual complaints, which is a win for family trips or weekends away with friends.
Inside, the cabin has undergone a streamlined makeover. The previous rounded spokes have been replaced with rectangular ones, giving the steering a more modern look. All key instruments are now housed within the central display, accompanied by a pop-up heads-up display (HUD) that provides essential driving information.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the interior is the 240 mm OLED screen, the largest in its class. This round central display is visually impressive and highly functional, with crisp graphics and intuitive controls for the infotainment and climate settings. The infotainment system, paired with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, kept us connected and entertained throughout the drive.
The climate control switches have also been integrated into this central hub, creating a cleaner interface. The signature toggle switches have been repositioned higher, allowing space for a wireless charging pad below and a larger compartment for storage. The adaptive cruise control was a standout feature during the longer stretches of highway. Adjusting our speed based on traffic flow made the journey much more relaxed, taking the pressure off the driver while maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles. The inclusion of lane-keeping assist, driver attention monitoring, and the impressive lane-change assist feature further enhanced safety.
EXPLORING THE MPUMALANGA HIGHLANDS
As we neared Dullstroom, the landscape transformed into rolling hills and forests. The transition from smooth tar roads to less well-maintained asphalt was no challenge for the MINI’s All4 system, which kept the ride stable and comfortable. The suspension, although firm in nature, soaked up road imperfections, making it feel more composed than you’d expect from a compact SUV.
Arriving in Dullstroom, the town greets you with its quaint charm. Known for its cool climate and beautiful trout dams, Dullstroom is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Yet, Walkersons Hotel & Spa offers an idyllic retreat for those looking for something more luxurious. Set amidst tranquil landscapes, the hotel provides everything from fine dining to rejuvenating spa treatments. The luxury and serenity of Walkersons mirrored the refinement we found in the Countryman, creating a perfect conclusion to a rewarding road trip.
THE IDEAL WEEKEND COMPANION
After spending hours behind the wheel of the MINI Countryman S ALL4, it’s clear that this crossover excels in blending driving excitement with practicality. On the journey from Pretoria to Dullstroom, it efficiently handled everything from fast highways to winding mountain roads.
The dynamic driving experience, comfort features, and all-wheel drive versatility make the Countryman an ideal vehicle for South Africa’s diverse landscapes.
LAST WORD
For those needing a vehicle that blends compact convenience for urban commutes with the durability required for weekend getaways, the Mini Countryman S ALL4 delivers perfectly. Whether cruising along Mpumalanga’s scenic routes or navigating rugged dirt roads toward a secluded destination, this MINI thrives in any setting, delivering thrills on the road, comfort inside, and the versatility to conquer (almost) any terrain.
Report & Images by BERNIE HELLBERG JR
