THE MINI Countryman looks, it must be said, more than a little odd, but there are loads of things in its favour.

It's the first MINI with enough rear legroom to accommodate four or five people, and it has a proper hatchback instead of the misguided twin doors of the Clubman.

The hiked suspension and more prominent grill certainly give it plenty of presence, but few would call it good looking.

Nonetheless, it's a MINI , and it will probably sell like hot cakes and have residual values other car makers would die for.

I drove the Cooper S version with four wheel drive (some have only two wheel drive) and it felt much like the standard hatch amazingly, with very little roll in the corners, huge grip and marvellous handling.

Acceleration is superb from almost any speed with a hugely willing and powerful engine and an excellent six speed gearbox.

Inside it's as funky and bright as Minis have all been since BMW started producing them in this country.

Suzuki SX4