By Deanne Jeffers
WORKING in media, I’m used to organising and announcing competitions – but winning them? That’s a different story. Until recently, my prize record included little more than a meat tray. So, when I found out I’d won Shepparton MINI Garage’s ‘Mini Getaway’ competition online, I was over the moon.
The prize promised the perfect escape: a night’s accommodation and dinner at the beautiful Michelton Winery, plus the chance to hit the road in a brand-new MINI for the weekend. I’ve always wanted to drive a MINI, and my weekend test drive did not disappoint.
The dealership hooked me up with a 2025 MINI Countryman and the first thing that needs to be said is that this Mini is anything but small. The Countryman retains many of the features people love about Mini – the iconic Union Jack inspired details, classic centre-mounted speedometer, and clever use of space – but it adds serious size, versality and tech-savvy upgrades.
The centre console – or ‘pump up the jam portal’ as I am referring to it – is a beautiful interface. It’s easy on the eyes, connects to Apple and Android phones simply, and it’s easy to navigate. A second screen smaller sits in front of the driver, so your eyes never leave the road checking speed or changing music.
The Mini Countryman is built for the country, but it is also incredibly luxe, without feeling over the top. Nothing in this car feels like too much. The heated seats and steering wheel, sleek interior design and panoramic sky roof are all thoughtfully integrated to enhance comfort and style, not to just to show off.
It’s the kind of luxury that feels practical and grounded, wrapped in the signature MINI charm. Whether you’re cruising through winding backroads or rolling up to dinner in the city, the Countryman delivers a drive that’s equal parts refined and fun.
My greatest, if only, concern about driving a Mini on country roads was safety. Small cars often don’t fare well against roos, potholes or passing trucks. The Mini Countryman never felt unsafe though. The size was one contributor to this, but what stood out most was how solid and intuitive the controls and handling felt.
It held its own on dirt roads, offered excellent visibility, and was surprisingly easy to park for its size. On Sunday evening, when we encountered kangaroos on the road, the Countryman handled beautifully.
We covered some serious ground over the weekend – Shepparton, Nagambie, Bonnie Doon, Mansfield, Colbinabbin, Bendigo, – to bring the Countryman home to Shepparton MINI Garage on Monday. Fuel efficiency was good, and the combined hybrid power made a big difference. Overall, I love my Mini Getaway and I won’t forget my first time driving a MINI. To book a test drive and experience it for yourself, go to Shepparton MINI Garage at 7969 Goulburn Valley Hwy, Kialla or online: sheppartonminigarage.com.au
Thank you to Shepparton MINI Garage and Michelton Winery for running the competition. This article is not sponsored by any parties.
