I have been driving Volvo xc-70's for 20 years now. I like how safe and sturdy they are. I like having AWD, and I like the clearance.

BUT -- they are boring. I want something fun to drive and that doesn't look like everything else on the street.

However, I am practical. I live in Oregon and get into the mountains frequently. Rough roads, snow, mud. How will a Countryman hold up?

My husband thinks Subaru would be a good choice.... He's probably right, but it seems so boring.

 

I'm asking myself the same question! I don't need quite the ruggedness that you do but want to be fun AND practical. But I have fallen in love with the Countryman, and I plan to purchase soon!!

 

This article might interest you:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/markewi.../#4417cd1663bf

 

Yep, its built off/shares the X1 platform and in crash test and in looks, much better than the X1.

I would go for the Countryman as its more fun and not boring.

 

Thanks. now i am trying to figure out whether to buy outright or lease. I have never leased a vehicle, but it seems that with so many changes coming so fast, I might like to update in a few years....

 

Also, I test drove an X1, and while it handles great -- it basically looks like every other card on the road these days. Engorged ticks.

 

We have leased our last two vehicles and plan to lease the Countryman (ordered 5/12/17!!). The nice thing about leasing is you have the option to buy at the end (price stated at the beginning of the lease; the "residual value"), and you only pay for the depreciation of the car, plus the "money factor" (interest rate). The downside of the interest rate is that is seems a bit high with Mini. If you put relatively low mileage on a vehicle and like to have "new," leasing might be a great option for you/your family.