Mini Countryman Electric Debuts in India at Rs 54.90 Lakh
Mini has introduced the new Countryman Electric in India with an introductory price of Rs 54.90 lakh (ex-showroom). While the Countryman is available globally in both ICE and EV versions, India currently only gets the electric variant. Notably, the Countryman Electric shares its underpinnings and battery with the BMW iX1, its direct competitor in the Indian market.
Exterior Design
The new Mini Countryman’s exterior design retains the iconic look of its predecessors but adopts a simpler and more minimalistic approach, closely resembling the new Cooper S. It is significantly larger, with an increase of 60mm in height and 130mm in length compared to its predecessor. The design features an octagonal grille, redesigned bezel-free headlamps, and new tail-lamps similar to the Cooper S. The bumpers are adorned with black plastic cladding and contrasting trims, and a pronounced character line runs along the car’s length and over the wheel arches. The C-pillar treatment and floating roof effect, thanks to the dual-tone paint finish, add distinctiveness. Wheel sizes range from 17 to 19 inches.
Interior and Features
Inside, the Countryman Electric boasts a minimalist design similar to the new Cooper S, highlighted by a 9.4-inch touchscreen at the center of the dashboard, flanked by four vertical AC vents. The new three-spoke steering wheel has no instrument cluster behind it, and the simplified center console features a single band of toggle switches for essential functions. Most vehicle settings, including HVAC controls, are managed through the touchscreen.
The SUV’s increased dimensions result in a larger center console with bigger cupholders and an extra 130mm of legroom in the rear. The cabin is enhanced with textured surfaces throughout. The Countryman is the first Mini to feature Level 2 ADAS, offering semi-autonomous driving at speeds up to 60kph. Additional features include electrically adjustable front seats, ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof, wireless charger, traction control, and a leather-free interior.
Powertrain, Battery, and Range
The Countryman Electric is powered by a 66.4kWh battery pack shared with the BMW iX1 and features a single motor, front-wheel drive configuration. It produces 204hp and 250Nm, accelerating from 0 to 100kph in 8.6 seconds and reaching a top speed of 170kph. Although there is a 313hp dual-motor AWD variant available globally, it is exclusive to the BMW iX1.
The Countryman Electric boasts a claimed range of 462km (WLTP cycle) on a single charge. It supports rapid charging up to 130kW, allowing the battery to charge from 10 to 80 percent in under 30 minutes. A 22kW AC charger can fully charge the battery in 3 hours and 45 minutes. Competing with the BMW iX1, Mercedes-Benz EQA, Volvo XC40 Recharge, and C40 Recharge, the Countryman Electric offers a compelling blend of performance and features.
