2017 Mini Countryman launches with plug-in hybrid option
Mini introduces the Cooper S E Countryman ALL4, its first plug-in hybrid, combining a 1.5-litre turbo engine with an electric motor for 24 miles of electric range.
Mini has added a plug-in hybrid to the 2017 Countryman range, marking the brand’s first move into electrified production models. The new variant, known as the Cooper S E Countryman ALL4, combines a turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor to deliver all-wheel drive and up to 24 miles of electric-only range.
The petrol engine sends 134hp to the front wheels through a six-speed automatic gearbox, while the 87hp electric motor is mounted at the rear and drives the back axle. Together, the system produces a combined 221hp and 284lb ft of torque. Mini claims the car can accelerate from 0 to 60mph in 6.8 seconds, with the electric system providing instant torque for city driving.
The 7.6kWh lithium-ion battery is located under the boot floor. Charging from a 240-volt outlet takes just over three hours. Official figures put the electric driving range at 24 miles (38km) on the European cycle, provided speeds remain below 77mph. Fuel consumption is rated at 2.1 litres per 100km, with CO2 emissions of 49g/km under EU test conditions.
Plug-in hybrid system and driving modes
The Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 offers three selectable driving modes. Auto eDrive allows electric-only driving up to 55mph, with the petrol engine cutting in when needed. Max eDrive gives full electric propulsion up to 77mph, while Save Battery mode preserves battery charge for later use. The hybrid system draws on BMW Group experience from the i3 and i8, as well as the earlier Mini E pilot project.
Comparison with rivals and previous models
This second-generation Countryman is the first Mini to offer a plug-in hybrid, expanding the brand’s appeal to buyers seeking lower emissions and the flexibility of electric driving. It enters a growing segment of compact SUV plug-in hybrids, competing with models such as the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and the Kia Optima Plug-in Hybrid, which debuted at the 2016 Chicago Auto Show (/2016-chicago-auto-show-live-2017-kia-optima-hybrid-and-plug-in-hybrid).
Compared with the previous Countryman, the 2017 model offers more interior space and improved efficiency, and the plug-in hybrid variant brings all-wheel drive without the mechanical complexity of a conventional system. The battery’s location under the boot floor does reduce luggage capacity compared to petrol and diesel versions, but the rear seats remain usable for passengers.
Emissions and charging
Official CO2 emissions of 49g/km make the plug-in Countryman attractive to company car buyers and those seeking lower tax bands. The charging port is located on the left front wing, and the car can be charged from a domestic or public charging point. Mini quotes a full recharge time of 3 hours 15 minutes from a 240V supply.
