2024 BMW X5 vs 2024 MINI Countryman

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, maintained a timeless appeal, although the M Sport treatment was not universally appreciated, giving it a station wagon-like appearance. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch "741M" wheels with staggered-width summer tires, which were considered a worthwhile upgrade despite the potential cost of tire replacement. The X5 offered a range of powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, a turbo-six PHEV powertrain, a turbocharged V8 engine, and a high-performance turbo V8 variant. The xDrive50e M Sport model, with its Brooklyn Grey paint and comprehensive equipment package, had an MSRP of $88,075. The 2024 model received a light styling refresh, aligning it with other BMW models, and introduced the BMW Curved Display, enhancing the interior's modernity while retaining the quality materials and construction reminiscent of classic BMWs.

The 2024 MINI Countryman embraced its playful nature with classic Mini styling cues, a wraparound windshield, a floating roof, and Union Jack tail lights. It offered various paint, roof, and mirror cap treatments, along with multiple wheel designs. The lineup included Cooper, Cooper S, Cooper SE, and John Cooper Works models, each with distinct powertrains. The Cooper S, with its turbocharged four-cylinder engine, was the test vehicle, featuring the Iconic trim package, dark-tinted privacy glass, adaptive damping suspension, and 19-inch wheels. The MSRP was $41,945. The Iconic trim added premium leather, power-adjustable front seats, a head-up display, wireless smartphone charging, and a semi-autonomous parking system. The Countryman's interior design and switchgear exuded classic Mini character, and the dual-panel moonroof provided ample natural light.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV boasted significant enhancements, including a new electric motor integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission and a more energy-dense lithium-ion battery with a 19.2 kWh capacity. It offered 38 miles of electric-only driving and 22 mpg in hybrid mode. The xDrive50e produced 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV's adaptive damping air suspension masked its weight, and the 21-inch wheels didn't compromise ride quality. The X5 excelled in Sport mode, delivering excellent acceleration, grip, and steering response. During testing, it achieved an average fuel economy of 38.8 mpg over 95.5 miles, showcasing its efficiency and performance.

The 2024 MINI Countryman offered various powertrains, with the John Cooper Works model standing out with its 301-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and eight-speed sport automatic transmission. It accelerated to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds. The Cooper S, with its 189-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, provided a zippy and athletic driving experience, reaching 60 mph in 7.2 seconds. The Countryman excelled in daily driving scenarios, but its performance tires and adaptive damping suspension didn't make it a canyon carver. The test vehicle averaged 25.4 mpg in combined driving, slightly below its EPA rating of 28 mpg.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e offered a spacious interior with room for five passengers and a 33.1 cubic-foot cargo area, expandable to 71.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The split liftgate design provided a convenient seating area but required stretching to access deep cargo. The test vehicle featured Sensafin artificial leather upholstery, standard sport seats, and the Climate Comfort Package, which included 20-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed comfort, and the panoramic sunroof added to the cabin's appeal. The X5 no longer offered a third-row seat, requiring a step up to the BMW X7 for that feature.

The 2024 MINI Countryman accommodated four adults comfortably, with enough luggage space for a week-long road trip. The Iconic trim package added dual-zone automatic climate control, premium leather upholstery, power-adjustable heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The Countryman's compact dimensions made parking easy, though it lacked advanced parking technologies. Interior storage was reasonable, but the smartphone charging pad obstructed access to the tray beneath it. Cargo space measured 17.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expandable to 47.6 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured the BMW Curved Display, combining a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel with a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It ran BMW Operating System 8.5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L, connected services, and over-the-air updates. The Intelligent Personal Assistant, however, struggled with voice recognition, leading to navigation issues. The head-up display effectively conveyed data, and the optional Harman Kardon sound system impressed.

The 2024 MINI Countryman offered a small digital instrumentation display and a head-up display. The 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, housed in a round housing reminiscent of classic Mini models, used a version of BMW's iDrive technology. It provided multiple interaction methods, including touchscreen, physical controls, steering wheel controls, a control knob, and voice recognition. The system lacked Android Auto but supported Apple CarPlay. The Iconic trim included a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, delivering excellent audio quality.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced the Highway Assistant hands-free driving assistance system, which required deliberate activation. It performed well in specific conditions but exhibited errant braking episodes. The X5's driver aids operated subtly, enhancing usability. The IIHS awarded high ratings, but lower headlight ratings prevented an IIHS safety award. The NHTSA gave the X5 a four-star overall crash-test rating.

The 2024 MINI Countryman featured limited advanced driving assistance systems, with Active Driving Assistant providing forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Adaptive cruise control was optional. The lane-departure warning system provided subtle feedback. The IIHS rated the Countryman highly in crashworthiness evaluations.