Mini adds bigger batteries, more range and dollars to EV lineup in Australia

The iconic British automotive marque Mini will expand its electric Countryman lineup in Australia, with two new electric variants that will offer bigger batteries and more range to its existing electric offering with the Mini Cooper.

The new Countryman E and SE ALL4 will be available in three trims – Core, Classic, and Favoured – but are markedly more expensive than their petrol predecessors, at anywhere from $15,000 to $23,000 compared to the entry-level Mini Countryman C.

The new Countryman E is the more affordable of the two new BEV models, with the Core trim boasting a manufacturer’s recommended list price (MRLP) of $64,990 – and stepping up to $67,990 and $70,990 for the Classic and Favoured trims.

Producing 150kW from a single electric motor and 250Nm of torque, the Countryman E can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 8.6 seconds. A 63.8kWh battery delivers range of up to 462 kilometres for the front-wheel-drive BEV.

The Mini Countryman SE ALL4 starts at $72,990 and steps up to $75,990 and $77,990 for the Classic, Favoured, and JCW Sport trim levels.

With dual electric motors putting out 230kW of power and 494Nm of torque, the all-wheel-drive SE ALL4 delivers acceleration from 0-100km/h of 5.6 seconds. However, this second variant boasts the same 63.8kWh battery, and therefore delivers less range of up to 433 kilometres due to otherwise increased performance.

The Mini Cooper SE had a battery sized at just 33kWh – half of the Countryman – and had a limited range of around 230kms. Its price was last year reduced to $49,990 drive away. (See our Models page for details of all available EV models).

Both Countryman EV models also include as standard twin-tube gas filled pressure dampers with front and rear coil springs, and dynamic driving modes which can prevent the vehicle from rolling on an incline and to ensure sufficient braking power.

Inside, a 240mm OLED centre console screen includes access to the Mini Experience Mode, which allows customisation to the interior through a bespoke set of sounds, colours, and patterns.

Driving and Parking Assistant Plus are both available optionally for the two BEV models, on top of standard radar-based driver assistance system including cruise control, speed limiter, and lane change warning.

Adding Driving Assistant Plus includes Active Cruise Control, Stop&Go function and steering, as well as lane control functionality. Parking Assistant Plus adds a surround view system, allowing the driver to park the car with a view of the car from above, panorama, or 3D.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Wireless Phone Charging, and Comfort Access is available as standard on all variants.