Mini updates Countryman PHEV, drops diesels

Mini has updated the plug-in hybrid version of the Countryman SUV in a classic example of the evolution we can expect to see from electrified vehicles.

The petrol-electric hybrid now offers a 55 to 61km claimed range from a 9.6kWh lithium-ion battery pack.

Previously the Mini Countryman hybrid came with a 7.6kWh battery that offered a claimed range between recharges of up to 47km.

The version of the Countryman PHEV we tested in 2019 had a 40km range from the same 7.6kWh battery.

The outputs of the 65kW/165Nm e-motor and 100kW/220NM 1.5-litre triple-cylinder petrol-turbo engine remain unchanged, as does the six-speed auto and all-wheel drive system.

Sadly, the price does not stay unchanged. It’s now $60,900 plus on-road costs, up a hefty $3700 from the old $57,200 price.

That means the Toyota RAV4 hybrid and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV both start significantly cheaper. The Mini Electric also undercuts it at $54,800 plus on-road costs.

Pricing for the physically largest member of the Mini line-up now starts at $44,500 (up $2300) plus on-road costs for the cheapest petrol ICE model.

At least the turbo-diesel versions of the Countryman have been dropped, which is pleasing news for enviro-fans. A sporty new JCW Pure variant has been added.

Mini is claiming aesthetic, mechanical and connectivity improvements for the Countryman, which has been around in second-generation form since 2017.

A redesigned radiator grille with MINI’s signature hexagonal contours joins a new front and rear bumper design.

LED lighting technology is now a standard feature across the range, and at the rear, new light graphics trace the outline of a Union Jack motif, bringing the new Countryman in line with other Mini models.

The interior of the updated Countryman includes a new digital instrument display measuring 5.5 inches, a large 8.8-inch infotainment screen, an expanded suite of connected features in line with the app and wireless Apple CarPlay integration.