2023 MINI Countryman Cooper S Sport

The 2023 MINI Countryman Cooper S Sport occupies the more focused end of the Countryman line-up, using the 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder paired with the Steptronic automatic to produce 176 bhp and a 140 mph top speed. At 9,988 miles from a single owner, it's barely run-in — the vast majority of its life is still ahead of it.

The options list is sensibly chosen: the Driving Assistant Pack brings adaptive cruise control, the Panoramic Glass Sunroof opens up the cabin considerably, and the 19-inch John Cooper Works Circuit Spoke alloys give the exterior a sharper look than the base wheel options. Cross Punch Leather in Carbon Black keeps the interior feeling purposeful rather than vanilla, and darkened rear glass adds a degree of privacy. Automatic tailgate operation rounds out a specification that balances daily usability with a premium feel.

This is a well-optioned, low-mileage compact crossover sitting at a sensible price point for a 23-plate example. The Cooper S flavour adds engagement over the standard Cooper, but this remains firmly in practical-family-SUV territory rather than performance car territory.