Big Fun in a Bigger Mini

Saying that a bigger SUV handles like a hot hatch is a bit like saying a cruise ship is as nimble as a sampan.

But it is not a contradiction if the SUV in question is the Mini Cooper S Countryman.

The Mini Countryman is a crossover and the largest model in the Mini line-up. And if it is the Cooper S variant, then it is also one of the best-handling crossovers.

The Cooper S is one of two versions of the second-generation Countryman, with the other being the Cooper.

While they look largely similar, there are key visual differences. On the outside, the Cooper S Countryman has red S badges and black trim on the bumpers. It also runs on 18-inch wheels…