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In this detailed article, we will try to summarise all our drive experience concisely and let you know if the “Not So Mini Countryman” is a perfect tagline or not.
Mini Countryman Electric. (Photo: Shahrukh Shah/ News18)
At a time when the Indian government is pushing electrification from the left and right centre, the top manufacturers are leaving no stone unturned to make EVs as interesting as possible. The reason behind this is quite simple. They want to contribute to sustainable mobility and capture the audience who is more inclined towards ICE models.
To achieve this goal, the German carmaker BMW is playing smart. The company has transformed some of its models into complete EVs and added them to its Indian fleet. The sub-brand Mini is also no exception as it is following in the same footsteps. It has turned the iconic model Countryman into a pure electrified hatchback and released it in the Indian market at the starting price of Rs 54.90 lakh (ex-showroom).
It has been quite a few months since the vehicle entered the EV scene. If you are wondering, why we are late at the party and talking about the electric Countryman now? Well, before you reach any conclusion, let us tell you that the Team CNN-News18 Auto got the opportunity to drive the car for a few days. We have driven it somewhere around 500 km to 550 km and come up with a strong opinion about the model.
In this detailed article, we will try to summarise all our drive experience concisely and let you know if the “Not So Mini Countryman” is a perfect tagline or not. Without wasting more time, let us deep dive into the article and see what the model has to offer under the above-mentioned price range.
First Visual Impression
It is worth mentioning that the moment you see the Mini Countryman Electric parked at your place, it surely brings a wide smile to your face. All the credit goes to its improved size and noticeable cosmetic updates with a modern twist that says, “I’m eco-friendly, but I’m also here to have fun”. The company claims that it is the biggest model they have made to date.
The Countryman EV has a quirky style that makes it different from any other random EV in the market right now. From having big fully LED headlights set up to integrated DRLs to the unmistakable piano black Mini grille at the front and unignorably charm, is what makes it an attention seeker on the road.
From the side, it has been treated with body colour door handles and, a blacked-out roof with the same shade of decent-sized roof rails. It flaunts impressive-looking diamond-cut 17-inch alloy wheels, which are capable enough to combat multiple terrains. It is subtly redefined for the electrified era, offering a classic remixed feel with enough tech and innovation to appeal to today’s trendsetters.
Interior
As soon as the door opens, the Countryman welcomes the guests with a bunch of elements that catch their attention in no time. The company has used recycled fabric from every corner, which shows Mini’s commitment towards sustainability.
The cabin also has received an enhanced round-shaped 8.8-inch infotainment system. It serves as an instrument cluster as well. The unit is supported by wireless car connect technology including Android, Auto and Apple Car Play.
Lacks Few Features
The model could have become a full package if it would have offered a few trending features like ventilated seats, a 360-degree camera, paddle shifters and curtain airbags. If you think the list has stopped here, hold your horses. It does not even offer and spare wheel. However, this has been compensated with an impressive boot space of 460 litres. The space can be extended further when the second seats are folded.
The cabin also has top-notch features on board. It offers Experience Modes that can be your gateway to a world of emotional connection and inspire your senses. Each mode follows its creative design, and ambient lighting and some with sound palettes. With one single command, you can transform the look and feel of your cockpit completely.
What’s Under Hood?
The model is powered by a 66.4kWh battery pack that generates a maximum power of 201 bhp and 250Nm of peak torque. It is the same unit that has been used in BMW’s iX1.
Now, here comes the real question, “Deti Kitna Hai’? Well, the company says it is capable of providing a decent range of up to 462 km on a single. However, you must expect only around 400km to 410 km in the real world. The brand also says that the vehicle can touch 0 to 100kmph in just 8.6 seconds, and we are very satisfied with the claim.
As we mentioned at the start of the article we managed to drive this car for quite a decent km. It is best known for smooth go-kart” handling, and undoubtedly the latest offering is no such an exception. Whether taking a sharp turn, making cornering or doing zigzag on twisty roads, the responsive steering wheel would not let you down.
Final Thought
The Mini Countryman surely does not pretend to look cool from the outside; it surely has the genes that make the journey even more fun. It checks all the boxes, claimed by the brand. It is safe to say that the model is a perfect blend of innovation and cheekiness.
If you are looking for an entry-level EV in the premium segment, and have a budget of Rs 54.90 lakh (ex-showroom), the Countryman EV surely deserves a spot on your priority list. Despite, a slight cut in trending features, the model offers everything one can ask for. It is a quirky cousin in a family of stoic electric SUVs, and frankly, that makes it the most fun to hang out with.