The 2021 MINI Countryman 1.5 Cooper Classic Auto is proof that you don?t have to sacrifice character when stepping up to a more practical MINI. It?s the biggest model in the lineup, but it still oozes that signature MINI charm, chunky, retro styling, a cheeky stance, and enough quirky design details to keep things interesting. In Classic trim, you get the essentials done right: LED headlights, a crisp 8.8-inch infotainment system, and MINI?s unmistakable toggle switches that make even simple tasks feel more exciting. Under the bonnet, the 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol delivers 134 bhp and 220 Nm of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic for effortless urban driving. It?s not blisteringly quick (0-62 mph in 9.7 seconds), but it?s eager and playful, with that trademark MINI go-kart feel. The Countryman might be larger than its hatchback siblings, but it still manages to feel agile, with sharp steering and a well-damped ride that keeps things engaging, whether you're darting through city streets or tackling country lanes. Inside, it?s a blend of premium materials and fun design cues, with a circular centre display, customisable ambient lighting, and plenty of soft-touch surfaces. Space is decent, with a 450-litre boot and enough rear-seat room to make it a genuinely useful family crossover. MINI?s infotainment system, running BMW-derived tech, is intuitive and easy to use, though purists may miss the old-school physical controls. Ultimately, the Countryman Cooper Classic is a MINI at heart, fun to drive, packed with personality, and refreshingly different in a sea of generic crossovers. If you love the brand?s quirky nature but need something more practical, this is the MINI that lets you have your cake and eat it too.