The highly anticipated redesigned Mini Countryman is set to make its way to U.S. showrooms in the fall of next year. This new iteration will offer buyers a choice between electric and gas powertrains for the first time.
Mini has unveiled the electric version of the Countryman, known as the Countryman Electric. Initially, it will be available in two grades: the base E and the sporty SE. The base grade will come with a 66.5-kwh battery and a single-motor front-wheel-drive powertrain, delivering 188 horsepower. On the other hand, the SE will have the same battery but will be equipped with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain, providing 308 horsepower. Mini claims that owners of the SE can expect impressive acceleration, going from 0 to 62 mph in just 5.6 seconds, with a top speed of 112 mph.
As for the electric range of the redesigned Mini, no official estimates have been published by the EPA. However, Mini has confirmed that the vehicle supports DC fast charging at rates of up to 130 kW. This means that a 10-80% charge can be completed in less than 30 minutes, offering convenience and a minimized charging time for owners.
In terms of design, the Mini Countryman SE features LED headlights and wheels up to 20 inches in diameter. The interior offers an ambience packing with unique lighting and sound options. Additionally, the SE grade incorporates various electronic driver-assist features, including a new hands-free mode for single-lane highway-like roads. It is important to note that this system still requires the driver to monitor at all times and operates at speeds of up to 37 mph.
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Both the electric and gas-powered versions of the Countryman are built on the same FAAR platform, which is shared with Mini’s parent company, BMW Group. The production of both versions takes place at the same plant in Regensburg, Germany. This facility also manufactures other FAAR-based BMW models such as the latest X1 and the upcoming BMW X2.
Apart from the redesigned Countryman, Mini has announced plans for a new generation of the high-performance John Cooper Works Countryman. This model will be initially powered by a gas engine and is expected to offer even more power than the Countryman SE, which already boasts an impressive 308 horsepower.
Looking ahead, Mini is gearing up to release a redesigned Cooper hatch in 2025. This new generation will offer both electric and gas-powered versions, but the timing for the U.S. market release has not yet been announced. However, it is expected that the gas-powered Cooper will arrive next year, while the electric version may follow around 2026. The production of the electric Cooper will take place at Mini’s plant in the U.K., alongside the production of an electric subcompact crossover known as the Aceman.
In conclusion, the awaited redesigned Mini Countryman is an exciting addition to the Mini lineup. With the option of both electric and gas powertrains, Mini aims to cater to a wider range of buyers with different preferences. With advanced features and impressive performance, the new Countryman represents Mini’s commitment to innovation and providing a unique driving experience.
