MINI Countryman vs Subaru Solterra
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 MINI Countryman starts from $49,990 before on-road costs, while the Subaru Solterra opens at $76,990. That makes the MINI Countryman the more affordable entry point by $27,000.
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 $54,989 and $84,689 respectively.
The Subaru Solterra qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The MINI Countryman, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
Both the MINI Countryman and Subaru Solterra hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 83% for the MINI Countryman and 88% for the Subaru Solterra.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The MINI Countryman packs more ADAS features with 6 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 5 in the Subaru Solterra.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The MINI Countryman stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and ambient lighting that you will not find on the Subaru Solterra. The Subaru Solterra counters with Apple CarPlay, head-up display, heated front seats and V2L. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The MINI Countryman uses a Petrol Turbo producing 115kW and 230Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 9 seconds.
The Subaru Solterra responds with a Electric Motor making 252kW and 455Nm, paired to a automatic driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 6.9 seconds.
The Subaru Solterra has the clear power advantage at 252kW vs 115kW. In the real-world sprint, the Subaru Solterra is 2.1s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The MINI Countryman measures 4,444mm long on a 2,692mm wheelbase, 246mm shorter than the Subaru Solterra at 4,690mm (2,850mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Subaru Solterra generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 460L in the MINI Countryman and 452L in the Subaru Solterra, giving the MINI Countryman a 8L advantage.
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
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (MINI Countryman) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Subaru Solterra). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the MINI Countryman if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, or prefer MINI's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Subaru Solterra if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Subaru's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Subaru Solterra takes 3 of 5 key spec categories. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, MINI Countryman and Subaru Solterra?
The MINI Countryman is the cheapest at $49,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Subaru Solterra by $27,000.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The MINI Countryman uses the least fuel at 6.6L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — MINI Countryman and Subaru Solterra all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The MINI Countryman has the largest boot at 460L.
Which can tow the most?
The MINI Countryman has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,500kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Subaru Solterra makes the most power at 252kW. The Subaru Solterra is quickest to 100km/h in 6.9s.
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.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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