Head To Head 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Vs. 2024 Mini Countryman

If you are shopping for a small SUV, there are many choices. This week, we'll compare the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek to the 2024 Mini Countryman. A report from Kelley Blue Book gives us the highlights. I'll give you my winner and tell you why.

Here are KBB's highlights of the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek

1. Better behaved than before: Subaru updated the 2024 Crosstrek by stiffening the chassis while softening the ride. This results in a much smoother suspension that better absorbs bumps and ruts on the road. 

2. Resale value: One aspect of the Crosstrek that sometimes flies under the radar is its excellent record for resale value. This is handy to know for Subaru shoppers looking for a long-term relationship with their next vehicle.

3. Rugged Wilderness model: The Wilderness model jacks up the Crosstrek's off-road credentials even more. And we mean this literally because the Wilderness rides on all-terrain tires and has 0.6 inches more ground clearance than other variants. It also comes with more selectable AWD modes, water-resistant upholstery, and an underbody skid plate to prevent rocks from bashing its belly. 

Related Story: The All-New 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness Trim, Pricing, And Model Guide

4. User-friendly infotainment system: A user-friendly 11.6-inch touchscreen is fitted to all but the entry-level Crosstrek. Perks include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and front and rear USB ports. Also available is a wireless device charging pad and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. 

Here are KBB's highlights of the 2024 Mini Countryman

1. Fun to drive: The Countryman is available with front—or all-wheel drive. Its base turbocharged 3-cylinder engine produces 134 horsepower. There is a plug-in hybrid variant, and more potent turbo 4-cylinder engines make 189 hp and 301 hp. We're fans of extra ponies, but its razor-sharp handling truly sets the Countryman apart. Few subcompact SUVs are this much fun to pilot.

2. John Cooper Works model: If you have the means, we recommend taking the range-topping John Cooper Works ALL4 model for a test drive. Thanks to the 301-hp turbo 4-cylinder under its hood, the JCW ALL4 zips from 0 to 60 mph in under 5 seconds. Combined with those riotous handling reflexes, this Countryman is a thrill machine. The one caveat is that it's also a very pricey machine. 

3. Upscale interior: To put it gently, the Mini Countryman is far from being the least expensive subcompact SUV out there. But step inside, and you'll better understand its premium price. This classy cabin goes beyond the small SUV norm, from its circular central display screen to the many chrome-colored or red toggle switches (the latter serves as the starter button/toggle).

4. Panoramic moonroof: SUVs typically have a commanding view of the road and good outward visibility. The Countryman's panoramic moonroof adds to these attributes. It creates an airy atmosphere and comes standard on every trim.

I've driven the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek and Mini Countryman. The Mini Countryman is a fun-to-drive urban vehicle that can be parked easily in tight spots. The smart interior won't disappoint, but the price will leave you wondering if it's worth it. 

The base Countryman is expensive, and moving to the highest trims can mean you'll spend over $50,000. It's too rich for many small SUV buyers.

The Subaru Crosstrek is the best choice for active customers who use their small SUV more than a commuter during the week and a grocery hauler on the weekend. You'll buy it for its well-regarded off-pavement abilities. 

Related Content: 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Sport Vs. Wilderness - Are Wilderness Upgrades Worth The Cost?

The Crosstrek is value-priced. The Crosstrek starts at about $26,000, including dealer fees. 

The 2024 Crosstrek comes in Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Wilderness trim levels, and Base trim starts at $26,290. The Crosstrek Premium has a starting price of $27,440, Sport ($30,290), and Limited ($32,190). Pricing includes destination and delivery fees ($1,225).

The all-new Crosstrek Wilderness costs $33,290, including dealer destination and delivery fees ($1,295).

It's an easy choice for me, considering the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek's value. I would choose the 2024 Crosstrek Sport trim level. But for another $3,000, you can get the top trim Wilderness. How far off the beaten path do you want to go? 

I am Denis Flierl, a 12-year Torque News senior writer with 20+ years of Subaru and automotive journalism experience. I enjoy bringing you, the Subaru fans and customers, the most up-to-date Subaru news, reviews, and new model information. You'll find the latest Subaru stories on the Subaru page. Follow me on my The Dirty Subaru website, Dirty Subaru blog, SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

photo credit: Subaru, Mini