The electric vehicle landscape is evolving rapidly, and Mini’s latest offering has caught the attention of drivers seeking something different from the usual EV options. The 2025 Mini Countryman Electric represents a significant step forward for the British brand, but does it deliver on its promises?
After spending considerable time behind the wheel, we’ve discovered that this isn’t just another electric SUV wearing a familiar badge. It’s a vehicle that successfully balances Mini’s quirky character with modern practicality, creating something genuinely appealing for today’s drivers.
What Makes the Countryman Electric Different?
Two Distinct Driving Experiences
Mini offers the Countryman Electric in two configurations, each targeting different driver preferences. The base E model features a single electric motor producing 150kW and 250Nm, delivering power to the front wheels. This setup provides a 0-100km/h time of 8.6 seconds, which feels perfectly adequate for daily driving.
The SE variant steps things up considerably with dual motors generating 230kW and 494Nm, complete with all-wheel drive capability. This configuration cuts the acceleration time to just 5.6 seconds, transforming the driving experience entirely.
Both versions share the same 64kWh lithium-ion battery pack, though the more powerful SE sacrifices some range for performance. The E model achieves 462km of claimed range, while the SE manages 433km.
Pricing That Actually Makes Sense
Starting at $64,990 for the E Core variant, the Countryman Electric positions itself competitively in the small electric SUV market. The range extends to $77,990 for the top-spec SE JCW Sport, representing a premium of around $14,000-$15,000 over equivalent petrol models.
When compared to its closest technical relative, the BMW iX1, the Countryman E Classic offers nearly $13,000 in savings while sharing identical underpinnings. This makes it one of the more compelling value propositions in the premium electric SUV space.
Living with the Countryman Electric Daily
Interior Space That Surprises
Despite Mini’s reputation for compact cabins, the Countryman Electric offers genuinely usable space for a small family. At 4445mm long, it’s the largest Mini ever produced, and that extra size translates into meaningful interior benefits.
The front seats provide comfortable positioning for longer journeys, with heating as standard and electric adjustment available on SE variants. Moving to the second row, even tall passengers can find adequate accommodation, though those over six-foot-two might find headroom challenging.
The boot delivers where it matters most for families. With 460 litres of cargo space, it leads its class and provides genuine utility. The space is well-shaped and easily accessible through the standard powered tailgate. When you need more room, the rear seats fold in a 40/20/40 split, opening up 1450 litres of maximum capacity.
Technology That Actually Works
The centerpiece of the cabin is Mini’s new 9.4-inch circular OLED infotainment display. This screen handles virtually every vehicle function, from climate control to navigation. While this might sound overwhelming, the system is surprisingly intuitive once you spend time with it.
The display offers crisp visuals with vivid colors and includes features like native navigation with live charger data, wireless smartphone mirroring, and voice control. Mini has also included various “Experience modes” that change the interface appearance and sounds, adding personality to the driving experience.
One quirky touch is the tiny flip-up head-up display that replaces traditional gauges. While unconventional, it provides essential driving information without cluttering the dashboard.
How Does It Drive?
Surprisingly Engaging Behind the Wheel
Despite weighing around two tonnes, the Countryman Electric maintains the engaging character that Mini enthusiasts expect. The steering offers good feedback without being overly heavy, and the chassis strikes an excellent balance between sportiness and comfort.
This represents a significant improvement over Mini’s smaller electric models, the Cooper and Aceman, which can feel harsh over even smooth roads. The Countryman’s suspension tuning allows for spirited driving without punishing passengers during everyday use.
The regenerative braking system requires some adaptation, as it features a brief coasting period before engagement. However, both powertrains deliver their performance smoothly and quietly, with optional synthesized sounds for those who miss engine noise.
City Driving Excellence
Urban environments represent the Countryman Electric’s natural habitat. The instant torque delivery makes navigating traffic effortless, while the compact dimensions ensure parking isn’t a challenge. The “Go-Kart” drive mode enhances the sporty character, making even mundane commutes more engaging.
Highway cruising is equally comfortable, though some road noise becomes apparent at higher speeds. This is common among smaller SUVs and doesn’t significantly impact the overall experience.
Charging and Real-World Range
Practical Energy Consumption
In real-world testing, the Countryman E achieved energy consumption of 20.1kWh/100km, while the SE used 20.6kWh/100km. These figures are slightly higher than Mini’s official claims but remain competitive within the segment.
Both variants support AC charging up to 22kW and DC fast charging at 130kW maximum. This means convenient overnight charging at home and reasonable charging times during longer trips.
Safety and Reliability
Five-Star Protection
The Countryman Electric earned a full five-star ANCAP safety rating, with particularly strong scores for child occupant protection (86%) and vulnerable road user protection (81%). Standard safety features include autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assistance, and blind spot monitoring.
Higher trim levels add semi-autonomous driving capabilities and surround-view cameras with parking assistance. These systems prove genuinely helpful without being intrusive, unlike some competitor offerings.
Warranty Coverage You Can Trust
Mini provides a five-year, unlimited-kilometer warranty for the vehicle, with an additional eight-year, 100,000km coverage for the high-voltage battery. Servicing follows a condition-based schedule with capped pricing available for six years, averaging just $292 annually.
Competition and Market Position
The small electric SUV segment has become increasingly competitive, with the Kia EV3 currently leading sales figures. The Jeep Avenger and Zeekr X offer alternative approaches, but each has distinct strengths and weaknesses.
The Countryman Electric differentiates itself through its combination of premium feel, engaging driving dynamics, and practical packaging. While some competitors offer longer range or lower prices, few match the overall balance of capabilities.
Should You Buy One?
The Perfect Electric Mini
The Countryman Electric succeeds by being true to Mini’s character while addressing the brand’s traditional limitations. It offers genuine practicality without sacrificing the fun-to-drive nature that defines the marque.
For buyers seeking an electric SUV that prioritizes driver engagement over pure efficiency metrics, the Countryman Electric presents a compelling case. The base E model provides sufficient performance for most drivers while offering better value than the more powerful SE variant.
The success of this vehicle suggests that electrification doesn’t necessarily mean compromising on character. Mini has created something that feels authentically modern while honoring its heritage, making the Countryman Electric a standout choice in an increasingly crowded market.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: How much does the 2025 Mini Countryman Electric cost in Australia? A: The Countryman Electric starts at $64,990 for the base E Core variant and goes up to $77,990 for the top-spec SE JCW Sport model, all before on-road costs. This represents approximately a $14,000-$15,000 premium over equivalent petrol versions.
Q: What’s the real-world driving range of the Mini Countryman Electric? A: Mini claims 462km for the single-motor E variant and 433km for the dual-motor SE. In real-world testing, expect slightly lower figures depending on driving conditions, weather, and driving style. The vehicle’s 64kWh battery supports both 22kW AC charging and 130kW DC fast charging.
Q: Is the Mini Countryman Electric suitable for families? A: Yes, the Countryman Electric offers surprising practicality for a Mini. It features 460 litres of boot space (class-leading), comfortable seating for four adults, and essential family features like ISOFIX child seat points, rear air vents, and USB-C charging ports. The rear seats also fold in a 40/20/40 split for additional cargo flexibility.