Mini Countryman C Exclusive - long-term review

Last report, I said we would look at the different ‘experience modes’ for the main Mini screen in a future report... well, that time has come. For anyone unfamiliar with the whole Mini vibe, the general feel the company seems to be going for is ‘organised fun’. Which means – theatrically overexcited intake of breath – you can spontaneously choose one of eight thrilling options for the main screen.

These experience modes are: Go-Kart, Core, Vivid, Green, Personal, Timeless, Balance and Trail. Most of these simply change the cabin lighting, sound preferences and look of the screen. I’ve flicked through them all, and tried them out, and would be surprised if any of them actually does as Mini claims “enhance that Mini feeling”.

The much vaunted go-kart mode (I know, I know – ridiculous name, but Mini won’t relinquish the whole go-kart thing) not only makes a silly WOO HOO when you engage it, it also sharpens the throttle response, weights up the steering and reduces the threshold of the traction control. In addition, it ‘improves’ the engine note.

Core mode is the default mode, featuring standard driving settings and noises – and, to be honest, it’s by far the best of the bunch. Nuff said. Vivid mode focuses on allowing you to enjoy your music, “transforming your cabin’s lighting, inspired by the designs of whatever you’re listening to”. Unsurprisingly, not ideal for Radio 4.

Green, no one will be surprised to hear, zeroes in on efficiency and economy, using adorable animal graphics to symbolise how economically you are driving. Feels a bit preachy tbh.

Personal, I feel certain you have already figured out, allows you to personalise the cabin. But only by configuring the display with your own choice of pictures. Timeless mode Mini says is inspired by its original display but frankly it looks like an antique pocket watch. Why this mode even exists, I have no idea. Least said, soonest mended.

Moving on to the next thrilling mode... Balance. This one is actually OK, it’s supposed to be calming and relaxing, and have a soundscape and lighting to match. But essentially its base colour is blue and as I am especially fond of blue, it’s alright by me.

Finally (I know, I also wondered if this pointless parade of modes would ever finish) there is Trail mode, which is exclusive to the Countryman. It’s got a compass! And inclination data! Like you’re a real, genuine explorer. In a front-wheel drive car.

And that, folks, is your roundup of the Mini experience modes... the synopsis being choose Core or Balance and forget the rest.