LIKE many cars, the MINI comes loaded to the max with features.
The misnamed brand has been going against the grain, rolling out large, spacious models.
The All-Electric MINI Countryman S, reviewed here, is one such model, with loads of space within, made possible since it doesn’t require an engine and the batteries in the centre keep the car well weighted down for that go-kart driving experience.
Screen Time
Besides the discussion about going electric, it’s also about the size of the screens in cars.
From pop-up monitors to curved touchscreens, they have all been empowered to cram more and more information and functionality into them. It also cuts down the number of buttons, switches, dials and knobs required in a car, probably with the intention of keeping surfaces clean, improving production efficiency and reducing the number of moving parts.
As screens have become the central focus of the cabin, car manufacturers have seen fit to try and make the most of this to suit their needs and image. From functionality, they’ve evolved to become integral to the identity of some cars.
That’s certainly the case for MINI, where it’s about incorporating a screen into a dashboard dominated by the iconic round dial that has grown in prominence since BMW took over the brand. It’s a good thing it has swelled over the years, as it makes showcasing the information via that inefficient shape a little easier.
There are several screen styles to select from so you can refresh your interior to suit your mood. With 8 different displays — with varying functions on show — to choose from, you’ll be able to find a look for each trip you’re on.
It’s also nice to see that despite the presence of the 9.4″ OLED display, there are still a few buttons and switches to liven up the dashboard.
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MINI Growth Spurt
The growth spurt that MINI went through was necessary to widen its scope from being a selfish driver’s wheels to a generous family car.
The Countryman is testimony to the fact that while SUVs are popular these days, people do want something with character and style for their daily runabout.
Much thought has gone into developing the interior of the electric Countryman. It’s all about quality finishing — to the eye and touch. The use of materials in pleasant colours softens the look, and creates a welcoming ambience, spreading from the dashboard to the door, and the John Cooper Works Sports seats.
Comfort First
In all likelihood the driver of a Countryman is going to opt for comfort over speed. In that respect, this cabin should do the trick.
Connectivity is to be expected, and with the latest operating system, it’s easy to get your smart device hooked up wirelessly, and pumping through the Harman Kardon surround sound system. Given the absence of an engine and its accompanying sounds, you’ll hear more from your music.
The apps allows you to seamlessly stay connected with your car while over-the-air updates keep the machine ticking smoothly.
You get a good surround camera view of what’s around you as well, which makes for easier access and egress in tight spaces. The protective nature of today’s cars is also in evidence as the MINI will keep you on the right path with a slew of active and passive safety features.
But the MINI is still about that go-kart feel and driving that delivers a sense of spirit and joie de vivre.
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Electric Performance
The dual electric motors on the All-Electric MINI Countryman S deliver swift response when you put your foot down on the accelerator. It hastens from 0-100kmh in 5.6 seconds, with a top seed of 180kmh. The handling is sharp for a 2,000kg car that’s almost 4.5 metres long.
With a drive range of around 430km, you can have some fun on a well-planned trip with enough stops to charge the car.
Coming in just under *$250,000 might be helpful in this market segment which is growing congested with EVs from China.
For *$15,000 less, the single-motor version of the electric Countryman gives you 460km in terms of range, but is a laggard by comparison, requiring 8.6 seconds for the century sprint.
While today’s ICE MINIs are finding a balance between performance and comfort, their electric equivalents have a much more challenging journey. What is lost in terms of feel and engagement delivered by an internal combustion engine is hard to replicate.
The compensation therefore has to be in the excitement of an enhanced cabin and features, which add to a smooth journey; which is probably what most drivers prefer, anyway.
ALL-ELECTRIC MINI COUNTRYMAN RATING
Styling: 7.5/10
Interior: 8.5/10
Connectivity: 8/10
Ride: 8/10
Handling: 7/10
Power: 8/10
Overall: 8/10
*Please reconfirm price with dealer.
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