Mini has unveiled the redesigned third-generation Countryman crossover, set to be released in 2025. Alongside the Countryman, Mini also revealed a new generation of the signature Mini Cooper hatchback, which will also arrive as a 2025 model. Both vehicles will make their formal debut at the 2023 Munich auto show in Germany.
The new Countryman follows an evolutionary path but has been made bigger to target young families. With its increased size, the vehicle aims to appeal to the U.S. market and make space in Mini’s lineup for the smaller, fully electric Aceman crossover, which is currently in development.
The length of the new Countryman has grown to 174 inches, an increase of 5.1 inches compared to the previous model. The height has also grown by approximately 2.4 inches to 63.5 inches. In terms of storage space, the Countryman offers 16 cubic feet with the rear seats in place and 51 cubic feet with the seats folded flat.
One of the notable additions to the new Countryman is its battery-electric powertrain. Mini has confirmed two electric models: a base Countryman E with 188 hp and a sportier Countryman SE with 308 hp. The SE model can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 5.6 seconds and comes with all-wheel drive, thanks to its dual-motor setup. The battery is expected to have a capacity of 64.7-kWh, offering a range of approximately 280 miles on the WLTP test cycle. However, the range estimate may be lower when tested under the stricter EPA cycle.
In addition to the electric options, Mini will continue to offer internal-combustion engines. The company has confirmed a base Countryman C with front-wheel drive, a mid-range Countryman SE with all-wheel drive, and a range-topping Countryman JCW also with all-wheel drive. The engines are expected to be carried over from the previous model.
The new Countryman will have a towing capacity of 2,645 pounds.
Inside the cabin, the dash design has been revamped, with key driving information displayed on the circular infotainment screen in the center. A head-up display will also be available for drivers who prefer to have essential information directly in their line of sight. For the first time, buyers will have the option to add textile surfaces on the dash, along with sport seats and a panoramic glass roof.
The steering wheel and a bar located below the infotainment screen will feature physical controls. This bar will house the gear selector and a toggle switch for the various drive modes, referred to as Experiences by Mini. These modes will include a sport mode called Go-Kart. Additionally, a voice assistant will be included in the new Countryman.
The new Countryman will also offer electronic driver-assist features, either as standard or available options. One of these features is a new hands-free mode designed for single-lane highway-like roads. However, it is important to note that the driver must still monitor the road at all times, and the system only functions at speeds of up to 37 mph.
To enhance sustainability, Mini has eliminated decorative chrome elements and incorporated recycled materials throughout the vehicle. The surfaces of the dashboard, steering wheel, vehicle headliner, floor, and floor mats are made from polyester sourced from PET bottles and old carpets. The alloy wheels, which can range up to 20 inches in diameter, also use 70% recycled aluminum.
Production of the new Countryman will take place at BMW Group’s plant in Leipzig, Germany, marking the first time a Mini will be manufactured in Germany. The Leipzig plant is responsible for producing the latest 1-Series, 2-Series Active Tourer, and 2-Series Gran Coupe, all of which utilize the FAAR platform that underpins the new Countryman, including the electric variants. The FAAR platform is an evolution of the UKL platform used in the previous model.
In summary, Mini has revealed the third-generation Countryman crossover, which offers increased size and electrical powertrains. The redesigned Countryman aims to target young families and expand Mini’s lineup, with production set to take place in Germany. With its new features and sustainability-focused design, the new Countryman is poised to make waves in the crossover market.
