MG QS vs MINI Countryman
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The MG QS starts from $46,990 before on-road costs, while the MINI Countryman opens at $49,990. That makes the MG QS the more affordable entry point by $3,000.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $51,689 and $54,989 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the MINI Countryman by roughly $2,565 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the MG QS and MINI Countryman hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 88% for the MG QS and 83% for the MINI Countryman.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The MG QS packs more ADAS features with 7 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 6 in the MINI Countryman.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 7 in the MG QS and 9 in the MINI Countryman. The MG QS adds a 360-degree camera that the MINI Countryman misses.
Feature Showdown
The MG QS features a 12.3-inch touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital dash, while the MINI Countryman gets a 9.4-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The MG QS stands out with panoramic roof that you will not find on the MINI Countryman. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the MG QS gets fabric upholstery while the MINI Countryman offers synthetic leather / cloth. Climate control is 3-zone in the MG QS and 2-zone in the MINI Countryman.
Drivetrain
The MG QS uses a 2.0L Turbo Petrol producing 153kW and 360Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout.
The MINI Countryman responds with a Petrol Turbo making 115kW and 230Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 9 seconds.
The MG QS has the clear power advantage at 153kW vs 115kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The MG QS measures 4,983mm long on a 2,915mm wheelbase, 539mm longer than the MINI Countryman at 4,444mm (2,692mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the MG QS generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 203L in the MG QS and 460L in the MINI Countryman, giving the MINI Countryman a 257L advantage. The MG QS seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the MG QS leads with a 2,000kg braked capacity vs 1,500kg. That 500kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.6m diameter
Average
Based on 11.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,394/year for the MG QS and $1,881/year for the MINI Countryman. That is a $513 annual difference in favour of the MINI Countryman.
Estimated annual total: $2,394 (MG QS) vs $1,881 (MINI Countryman). The MINI Countryman saves you roughly $513 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 10 years / 250,000km (MG QS) vs 5 years / 999,999km (MINI Countryman). The MG QS has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the MG QS if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer MG's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the MINI Countryman if: You need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer MINI's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The MG QS takes 4 of 6 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The MINI Countryman will save you roughly $513 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the MINI Countryman has a clear edge. The MG QS adds peace of mind with a longer 10-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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