For years, the Tesla Model Y Performance has been hard to beat. It is fast, roomy, comfortable, and surprisingly affordable for the performance it offers. Many reviewers now agree that under the $100,000 mark, very few vehicles can match its mix of speed, space, and everyday usability.
But what if you still want a gas-powered car? What if you want a real driving feel, a traditional engine, and no charging cables? Surprisingly, the answer may come from an unexpected place, the biggest MINI ever built.
The 2026 MINI Countryman John Cooper Works (JCW) may be the best internal combustion engine (ICE) alternative to the Tesla Model Y Performance right now.
Why the Tesla Model Y Performance Is So Hard to Beat
The updated Tesla Model Y Performance has changed many minds. It offers:
- Supercar-like acceleration
- Huge interior space for families
- Comfortable adaptive suspension
- Very good efficiency for an EV
- A price that undercuts many luxury rivals
Even critics admit that Tesla has improved ride quality, handling, and build feel with the facelifted version. It no longer feels like a tech gadget on wheels. Instead, it finally drives like a proper car.
Still, the Model Y has its downsides. It lacks emotional driving feedback, has a very plain design, and for some drivers, electric cars still feel soulless. That’s where gas-powered alternatives come into play.
Why Most EV Rivals Don’t Work as Alternatives
New electric SUVs like the upcoming BMW iX3 or Mercedes-Benz GLC EQ may look like strong competitors, but they fall short for two main reasons:
- They are much more expensive
- They are extremely heavy
Weight matters. One of the Model Y Performance’s strengths is that it’s lighter than most electric SUVs in its class. Most premium EVs feel bulky and disconnected on the road.
That leaves gas-powered crossovers as the only real alternatives for drivers who want fun and practicality.
Enter the 2026 MINI Countryman JCW
At first glance, the new MINI Countryman JCW doesn’t seem like a natural rival. It’s bigger, quieter, and more mature than any MINI before it. Many long-time MINI fans criticized it heavily when it launched.
And honestly, those complaints aren’t wrong.
- It’s the largest MINI ever made
- It’s slower than the previous JCW version
- The iconic loud exhaust sound is gone
- The playful retro design has been toned down
But once you actually drive it, the picture changes completely.
Bigger Doesn’t Mean Worse
Yes, the new Countryman is much larger than the older versions. But that growth brings real benefits.
The new model is built on BMW’s modern platform and is assembled in Germany. Because of this, it now offers:
- Much more rear legroom
- Comfortable seating for four adults
- A large cargo area
- Sliding rear seats
- Useful underfloor storage
Despite its growth, it’s still smaller than many compact SUVs. In fact, it’s shorter than a Honda Civic hatchback while offering more usable interior space.
This makes it far more practical as a daily family car than older Countryman models. See more photos
A New Interior, Still Very MINI
The cabin has changed a lot. Many physical buttons are gone, replaced by a large, round OLED touchscreen in the center. It runs MINI’s latest infotainment system and controls most vehicle functions.
There is no traditional gauge cluster, but a colorful head-up display projects key info onto the windshield.
Thankfully, MINI kept some physical controls:
- A real engine start switch
- A rotary volume knob
- A toggle-style drive mode switch
The interior still feels special thanks to colorful fabric trim, ambient lighting, and quirky design details. It may be more grown-up, but it hasn’t lost its personality.
How It Drives: This Is Where It Shines
This is where the Countryman JCW really earns its place as a Tesla Model Y alternative.
Under the hood is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with all-wheel drive. It’s not the fastest in a straight line, but it delivers something EVs can’t: real driving feel.
You get:
- Strong acceleration
- Sharp steering
- Confident cornering
- A planted, stable chassis
It doesn’t feel tall or clumsy in corners, even though it’s a crossover. The suspension balances comfort and sportiness well, making it easy to live with every day.
While the exhaust sound is artificial through the speakers, it’s subtle enough not to feel fake or annoying.
Comfort and Daily Use
The Countryman JCW works well as a family car:
- Supportive sports seats
- Excellent visibility
- Comfortable ride even on larger wheels
- Optional panoramic sunroof
It feels solid, predictable, and enjoyable whether you’re commuting or taking a weekend road trip.
Price and Ownership: A Big Advantage
One of the biggest surprises is the price.
A fully loaded MINI Countryman JCW costs about 50% less than a Tesla Model Y Performance in many markets. While the Tesla is cheaper to run, EVs still depreciate heavily.
When you factor in purchase price, depreciation, and long-term ownership, the MINI often makes more financial sense.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 MINI Countryman JCW isn’t trying to be the future. It’s not chasing trends or pretending to replace electric cars. Instead, it proves that a well-designed gas-powered car can still make sense today.
Is it better than the Tesla Model Y Performance in every way? No.
But if you want:
- Real driving emotion
- Strong performance
- Family-friendly space
- A lower purchase price
- And a traditional engine
Then the biggest MINI ever built might just be the best ICE alternative to Tesla’s most popular performance SUV.
FAQs
What is the best gas-powered alternative to an electric performance SUV?
A well-tuned gas crossover with all-wheel drive and a turbo engine is the best option. It gives strong speed, a real driving feel, and does not need charging. It also costs less to buy upfront.
Is a gas SUV still worth buying in 2026?
Yes, for many people it is. Gas SUVs are easier to refuel, cost less to buy, and still offer great performance and comfort. They also lose value more slowly than most electric vehicles.
Which SUV feels the most fun to drive compared to an electric one?
A lighter gas SUV usually feels more fun. It has better steering feel, real engine response, and more feedback when cornering, which many drivers still prefer.
Are electric performance SUVs really better than gas ones?
Electric SUVs are faster in a straight line and cheaper to run. But gas SUVs still win in driving feel, sound, and long-term ownership cost for many drivers.
What is the cheapest performance family SUV right now?
Some sporty gas crossovers offer strong power, all-wheel drive, and lots of space for much less money than electric performance SUVs. They are often the better value buy.
Which performance SUV has the best interior space for families?
Larger compact crossovers with longer wheelbases offer the best space. They can fit adults in the back comfortably and still have a good-sized trunk for daily use.
Do gas SUVs cost more to own than electric ones?
Not always. While fuel costs more, gas SUVs are cheaper to buy and usually lose less value over time. That can make them cheaper overall in the long run.
Is it better to buy a performance SUV or a regular family SUV?
If you want speed, comfort, and space in one vehicle, a performance SUV is a good choice. You get fun driving without giving up daily usability.
Which SUV is best for people who don’t want to charge at home?
A gas SUV is the best option. You can refuel anywhere in minutes and don’t need to install charging equipment at home.
Can a small SUV still be fast and practical?
Yes. Some compact SUVs offer strong engines, smart design, and roomy interiors. They are easy to drive, quick, and still work well for families.
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