MINI Countryman SE ALL4 313PS – Test: Spacious, practical and electric!

Countryman, in its third generation, is an integrated B-SUV, larger, more comfortable, spacious with hi-tech and at the same time fun environment. It may not be mini in terms of dimensions at all, but Countryman’s philosophy remains true to the British brand. The “squared” pattern in its exterior design is preserved, as are the classic features of MINI, with the large surface of windows separate from the roof, as is the case with the simple and unspoiled lines and surfaces. The headlights with the perimeter polygonal day lights stand out, but also the slightly curved roof of the new Countryman that goes seamlessly to column C. Indeed, the overall design also justifies the aerodynamic sector, since it results in a coefficient of only 0.26 Cd. ADVERSE Compared to its predecessor it is larger in length by 13 cm, now reaching 4.433 km, its width is 1.843 km, while its height is 8 cm taller and reaches 1,656 km. The increase in the wheelbase to 2,692 mm gives spaciousness for the five passengers, but also upgraded comfort. A similar picture is found inside the new MINI Countryman with simple lines and minimalist culture having the first reason. The decoration is modern and impressive, with an excellent choice of materials, which are quality and environmentally friendly, excellent fitting and pop features and functions. The console and the door panels are covered with 2D textile knitted lining made of recycled polyester. The overall experience in the cabin is pleasant, while you cannot overlook attention to detail, characteristic of the British brand. CORVERSE Unlike most models that usually decorate their dashboard two or three screens, MINI Countryman insists on one and characteristic. Thus, we encounter the unique OLED 9.44 inch touch screen with glass contour and diameter increased by 240 mm. It is placed in the center of the dashboard and gives the feeling that it is suspended. There are all the information on the driver and the functions of the car with the commands given through touch or voice commands thanks to the MINI Operating System 9 . Also, a plus in the ergonomics of the new crossover is moving the screen closer to the driver and passenger, so that they can handle it more easily. Under the screen we find a number of switches, with which we have the ability to adjust the driving functions and the new MINI Experience Modes, which reflect the changes by digital and visual means, creating a more funky situation. In essence, the “Experiences” switch activates the different driving modes. Among the switches is the start/stop in the permanent key format. The seamless design also means the absence of the instrument panel, so its role in the version of our test has been taken over by Head-Up Display for the necessary information needed by the driver. In the piece of practicality, storage spaces for the various small objects exist, without altering the minimalist style of the cabin. Spatially, the five passengers enjoy the spaciousness of the increased wheelbase, despite the battery restricting the floor space a little. In addition to the comfort of the cabin, passengers have 460 litres of storage space for their luggage, which increases to 1,450 litres with the rear seats folded. It is worth noting that the rear row of seats can be moved by 130 mm. The new MINI Countryman is manufactured in Germany and is based on the FAAR platform, as are BMW X1 and X2 with all the technological advantages this entails. For example, MINI Countryman is the first vehicle with level 2 aid systems that allow autonomous driving. In addition, in addition to automatic parking operations, the sharp Parking View 360 degrees, has not been convenient to us a few times. Another advantage of using the FAAR platform is the rich range of Countryman engines with thermal and pure electric versions. The car of our test is the strongest electric version of Countryman. i.e., the four-wheeled electric MINI Countryman SE ALL4 combined performance 313 horsepower (230KW) . The two electric engines of Countryman SE ALL4 produce combined torque 494Nm and the electric Countryman achieves from a 100 km/h stop to 5.6 dp , while the final speed is limited to 180 km/h . One lithium ion battery with a capacity of 66.45kWh pronounces 433 km of autonomy, in the WLTP cycle, one of the competitive numbers of the class. In practice, we reached this number, while average consumption ranged from 15,6kWh/100km to 19,1kWh/100km (17,6kWh/100km v WLTP) in a mixed environment, while at a more rapid pace we saw 23kWh/100km. Charging to DC charger up to 130 kW from 10% to 80% takes 30 minutes. The driving position is expected ideal for our proper and safe driving. The settings in a seat and steering wheel make it easier to find it in summary procedures. Driving the electric MINI Countryman into the city, everything is relaxing and comfortable. The process of movement is not boring within the wound urban center, while the torque is readily available, interrupting driving despite continuous slowing and acceleration due to movement. Within the cabin there is a civilized breeze, the rolling quality is at a very good level, as the sound insulation, however, passes the sound from the road when the speed increases. Posts absorb most of the roughwork of the pavement, while no vibrations pass inside. Although we would expect complete silence due to the silent electric motor, the MINI Driving Sounds had a different view and depending on the driving program we choose, the sound is different. Especially in the Go Kart (Sport) program, pressing the right pedal you expect to take off influenced by sound. And of course the torque. On the highway it is straightforward, extremely stable and we enjoyed the robust footstep and overall the comfort of the car. On the provincial road and with the Go Kart program, where it changes mapping, Countryman shows its wildest aspect, but again in a civilized way. The steering wheel, although with a thick hoop for our preferences, has a nice feeling and follows the driver’s orders. The body weight of 2,035 kg, however, does not particularly affect its match behavior and the very good distribution contributes to this thanks to the low placing of the battery on the floor of the electric MINI Countryman. Under pressure, Countryman responds positively, however, it is not on the same fun-to-drive level as the lighter and shorter MINI Cooper wheelbase. The robust frame, suspension and four-wheel drive cooperate perfectly and in combination with the high level of adhesion and the driver’s safety and assistance systems give confidence and confidence behind the steering wheel of the electric SUV. On a mild off-road route, Countryman responded decently, since 20 million from its ground give an air of additional certainty. In conclusion, the new MINI Countryman, in its top electric version, is the ideal premium proposal for friends of the British brand who grew up, married, had children and their needs changed, resulting in greater space and practicality, economy in use and, all of this without separating the MINI heritage. It is also an interesting choice for the bachelor and bachelor who need… liters of trunks for their travels and hobbies and especially style for their ecological movements. However, it is certainly also addressed to those who want… endless flows with zero environmental footprint, modern technologies and the flag of elegant practicality high. The price of MINI Countryman SE ALL4 starts from 49,950 euros without the state subsidy.