Adult occupant
The passenger compartment remained stable during the frontal impact. Dummy readings indicated fair protection of the front seat passenger's knees. Structures in the dashboard were thought to pose a risk to the knees and femurs of occupants of different sizes and to those sat in different positions. In the side barrier test, the MINI Countryman scored maximum points with all body regions being well protected. In the more severe side pole test chest protection was rated as marginal. The front seats and head restraints provided good protection against whiplash injuries in the event of a rear-end collision.
Child occupant
In the frontal impact, forward movement of the 3 year dummy, sat in a forward facing restraint, was not excessive and, in the side impact, both dummies were properly contained within the protective shells of their restraints. The test vehicles were not equipped with the optional switch which allows the passenger airbag to be disabled to allow a rearward facing restraint to be used in that seating position. Labels in the car clearly warned of the dangers of using a rearward facing seat in that position without first disabling the airbag. MINI is working to improve the labelling of the top tether markings in the car.
Pedestrian
The bumper offered good protection to pedestrians' legs and scored maximum points. The front edge of the bonnet was rated as poor in some areas and marginal in others. The bonnet scored maximum points for the protection it offered to the head of struck child, giving good protection in all areas tested. In those areas where an adult's head might strike, however, the car provided predominantly poor protection.
Safety assist
Electronic stability control is fitted as standard equipment and the MINI Countryman has a seatbelt reminder system covering the front seating positions.