Chrysler Pacifica vs MINI Countryman

The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica is the last Chrysler model standing, as well as one of a shrunken contingent of North American-market minivans that also includes the Honda Odyssey, Kia Carnival, and Toyota Sienna. While it hasn’t been redesigned since its introduction as a 2017 model, the Pacifica continues with minimal changes. The only news for 2024 is a handful of new colour options.

Verdict: The Pacifica checks all of the boxes, with only small issues to detract from its overall goodness.

Redesigned this year, the 2025 Countryman grows in size but remains a small crossover SUV. Expressively styled, infused with parent company BMW’s engineering and technology, and packed with cheeky Mini quirks, the Countryman is available in S All4, John Cooper Works All4, and electric SE All4 model series, each equipped with standard All4 all-wheel drive (AWD). It can comfortably hold rear-seat passengers, carries a competitive amount of cargo, and remains fun to drive.

Verdict: With prices starting at around $45,000 in Canada before fees, the Mini Countryman sells in entry-level luxury territory. However, anyone expecting plush refinement will want to shop elsewhere because the Countryman is decidedly rough around the edges. We begrudgingly accept its quirks in exchange for its personality, but many people likely won’t.