Building a bigger Mini -- but not too big.

#1. It’s the most useful Mini.

With four doors, available all-wheel drive, and useful passenger and cargo space, the 2011 Mini Cooper Countryman is a much more useful car than its smaller siblings. The rear seat is hospitable for two adults, the cargo area can handle a trip to the hardware store, and the all-wheel drive system adds slick road security. While the Countryman is larger, it’s not large, so much of that fun-to-drive Mini character remains. Pricing has not been announced, but a Mini official said the price should start between the Clubman and Cooper convertible. That would place the Countryman in the $23,000 to $30,000 price range. It will be more expensive than most cars of its size, but also more fun. And with that usable space, it should sell well. Bottom line, Mini built a bigger car, but it’s still damn fun.