At MINI we think very highly of our cars. And we love to hear that others share the same level of appreciation, especially when someone gives you a pat on the back and says "Well done, you created a cracking car!" This award makes us feel like we have won a gold medal at the Olympics.

The Auto Express New Car Awards celebrate the most pioneering cars in the business. There are 25 categories in total, including Car of the Year, and they focus on the elements and aspects that are important to car buyers.

The judges loved how we’d gone BIG on size while still staying true to what makes us unmistakeably MINI. They complimented the Countryman on its premium cabin feel, responsive engine, and innovative onboard tech, like the unique circular OLED display. Just some of the MINI reasons why we love this model so much.

Here’s what Auto Express Editor Paul Barker had to say about why the MINI Countryman was the worthy winner.

Seeing the MINI Countryman win an award makes us feel like a proud parent on Sports Day. The good news is, you too can get behind the wheel of the award-winning MINI Countryman by booking a test drive at your nearest retailer.

Experience it for yourself and see why Auto Express rate it as the Best Small Premium SUV.