Mini has officially taken the wraps off the all-new electric Mini Countryman, marking its status as the first model to be manufactured in Germany by the British marque. This significant addition also stands as the largest model within Mini’s rejuvenated lineup.
The third-generation Countryman, measuring 174.5 inches (4,433 millimeters) in length, 72.5 inches (1,843 mm) in width, and 65.1 inches (1,656 mm) in height, is set to make its public debut alongside the Mini Cooper EV at the upcoming IAA Munich event, commencing on September 5.
A notable evolution from its predecessor, the electrified Countryman boasts a 5-inch (130 mm) increase in length and a 2-inch (60 mm) elevation in height. It will be available in two distinct power variants: the Countryman E, with a WLTP-rated range of 287 miles (462 kilometers) powered by a front-mounted electric motor delivering 201 horsepower (150 kilowatts) and 184 pound-feet (250 Newton-meters) of torque, and the Countryman SE ALL4, a more potent version offering a WLTP range of 269 miles (433 km) featuring a dual-motor all-wheel drive configuration, delivering a combined 308 hp and 364 lb-ft (494 Nm) of torque.
Although the press release does not explicitly mention battery capacity, earlier teasers hinted at a 54-kilowatt-hour pack for the Countryman E and a 64-kWh pack for the Countryman SE ALL4. Charging rates, however, are explicitly detailed, with both variants accepting up to 22 kW of AC power and up to 130 kW at a DC fast charger.
Performance-wise, the entry-level Countryman can accelerate from 0 to 62 miles per hour in 8.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 105 mph (170 kilometers per hour), while the more robust model can sprint to 62 mph in 5.6 seconds and attain a top speed of 111 mph (180 kph).
Compared to its smaller Mini Cooper counterparts, which support up to 11 kW of AC power and a maximum of 95 kW when connected to a DC fast charger, the electric Countryman showcases enhanced charging capabilities.
The front fascia of the new-generation Countryman is distinguished by a fresh octagonal grille housing a small radar sensor for Level 2 driving assistance systems, alongside configurable LED daytime running lights offering up to three distinct lighting signatures, mirroring the new Mini Cooper’s design.
The side profile of the vehicle is characterized by a redesigned C-pillar with distinctive shapes reflecting the chosen trim level, complemented by rims of up to 20 inches in size. At the rear, flush tail lights add to the modern aesthetics.
Within the cabin, similar to the new Mini Cooper, the 2024 Countryman features a curved dashboard adorned with textile surfaces on certain trim levels. It houses a central 9.44-inch (240 mm) OLED screen displaying essential information ranging from travel speed to navigation details and battery status. Running on Operating System 9, the Countryman responds to voice commands using the “Hey Mini” greeting or via a push-to-talk steering wheel button that activates the Mini Intelligent Personal Assistant.
Accommodating five occupants, this German-manufactured crossover can be equipped with a split panoramic glass roof. The rear row of seats can be adjusted in length by up to 5 inches (130 mm), either enhancing rear legroom or expanding luggage space in the trunk.
With the rear backrest in its standard position, the trunk offers a cargo volume of 460 liters, expandable to 1,450 liters by folding the rear seats. Additionally, a second-floor compartment is available for storing charging accessories that come with the vehicle. An optional trailer, electrically retractable and extendable, provides a towing capacity of up to 2,645 pounds (1,200 kilograms).
The all-electric Countryman will be offered in four trim levels, mirroring the Mini Cooper lineup: Essential, Classic, Favoured, and JCW. Each trim brings unique features and finishes to cater to diverse preferences.
Production of the third-generation Mini Countryman is slated to commence later this year at BMW Group’s Leipzig factory in Germany, coinciding with the Chinese-built Mini Cooper EV’s production. In April 2024, the lineup will expand further with the introduction of the Aceman crossover.
As Mini continues to electrify its range, the new electric Countryman promises to be a pivotal addition, setting the stage for an electrifying future for the iconic British marque.
