The Mini brand has introduced its biggest vehicle yet, the 2025 Mini Countryman, which has made its luggage test debut. This new model is 5.1 inches longer than its predecessor, making it 13.1 inches longer than the original Mini Countryman. Despite its size, the Mini Countryman has proven to be spacious and versatile, which may explain why Mini continues to enlarge its vehicles.
One important aspect to consider in the luggage test is the cargo space. The official cargo specs show a significant increase from 17.6 to 25 cubic feet with the back seat raised. However, given BMW’s history of questionable cargo volume measurements, it is unclear how accurate these measurements are. For comparison, other subcompact luxury SUVs, particularly the BMW X1, offer a slightly larger cargo space on paper.
The cargo area of the Mini Countryman is notably different from its predecessors. It is longer and more boxy in shape, which is advantageous for a luggage test. Two factors that will be taken into account in the tests are the presence of a rigid cargo cover and a large underfloor cargo space.
The presence of a rigid cargo cover will be tested both with and without it in place to see how it affects the cargo space. Additionally, the underfloor cargo space, which is covered by a floorboard that can be propped up, will also be examined. It is worth noting that the BMW X1 has a similar underfloor space, but it is typically occupied by a spare tire, which is an optional feature in the Mini Countryman.
The luggage test will involve using two midsize roller suitcases, two black roll-aboard suitcases, one smaller green roll-aboard suitcase, and a fancy overnight bag. These items represent typical luggage that one might take on a trip.
In Test 1, with the cargo cover and high floor with the spare tire, the Mini Countryman could accommodate all the suitcases except for the fancy bag. The slight disadvantage compared to the BMW X1 is likely due to the Mini’s slightly shorter cargo area length.
In Test 2, without the cargo cover and the high floor with the spare tire, the green bag could be stacked on top. However, it should be noted that placing a bag on the right side would obstruct rear visibility and prevent the liftgate from closing properly. In comparison, the BMW X1 could fit all the suitcases with better rear visibility.
In Test 3, with the cargo cover and low floor without the spare tire, all the suitcases except for the fancy bag could fit comfortably. This is considered excellent for a subcompact SUV.
In Test 4, without the cargo cover and the low floor without the spare tire, all the suitcases fit with extra space available for additional bags. This demonstrates a significant amount of cargo space.
Although the Mini Countryman’s cargo area may not be as spacious as that of the Mercedes GLB, it is likely comparable to the Volvo XC40 and better than other vehicles in the segment. Even with the spare tire, the Mini Countryman offers a highly useful cargo area that defies its “mini” branding. Overall, the Mini Countryman proves to be a versatile and practical option for those in need of a subcompact SUV with ample cargo space.
