autoX Awards 2024: Among all the vehicles available in the country, Minis are widely regarded for their X-factor and fun-to-drive quotient. However, Mini India is now aiming to add efficiency to the list with the introduction of the Countryman EV. This model is targeted directly at enthusiasts, striving to be an SUV that can truly claim to do it all.
In India, the electric Mini Countryman is available only in the single-motor variant. This motor generates 204 horsepower and 250Nm of torque. When you press the throttle, the Countryman accelerates smoothly and in a linear manner, with the speedometer displaying a steady, progressive rush. While it may not be the quickest car on the road, I would describe its performance as brisk. Mini India’s claimed 0 to 100 km/h time of 8.6 seconds is an accurate representation of how it drives. It’s not fast enough to overwhelm beginners, but it does offer an enjoyable experience nonetheless.
The Countryman EV offers what Mini calls ‘experiences’, but only three of them – Core, Efficient, and Go-Kart – actually have any impact on the driving dynamics of the car. Core provides the best balance between performance and efficiency; Go-Kart enhances steering and throttle response, and Efficient…well, it’s self-explanatory, isn’t it? Despite sacrificing battery capacity, the Go-Kart delivers the fastest and liveliest driving experience.
Also Read: 2024 Mini Countryman Electric First Drive Review: Perfect SUV For Car Lovers In India?
The Countryman EV’s 66.45kWh battery pack offers a claimed range of 462km on a single charge. In real-world conditions, our test drive yielded a range of about 380km, which, in my opinion, is not bad at all. Although the Countryman EV isn’t the fastest amongst the cars we have, its handling is remarkable for its size and weight, even though the motor’s performance is not. While it doesn’t feel fast, it holds its line effortlessly through corners. The steering is incredibly responsive, although it does feel slightly artificially weighted. All in all, the Mini Countryman EV might just be the most practical and well-rounded Mini for the family, blending efficiency, handling, and the brand’s signature driving enjoyment into one attractive package.
- Mini Countryman EV (Lap Time: 1.10.94)
| PARAMETERS | POINTS | SCORE |
|---|---|---|
| QUALITY | 5 | 4 |
| COMFORT / SPACE | 5 | 3.5 |
| REFINEMENT | 5 | 4.5 |
| DESIGN | 5 | 2.5 |
| DRIVETRAIN | 5 | 4 |
| RIDE & HANDLING | 5 | 3.5 |
| PRACTICALITY | 5 | 3.5 |
| X FACTOR | 20 | 12 |
| LAP TIME | 15 | 9 |
| VALUE FOR MONEY | 30 | 15 |
| TOTAL | 100 | 61.5 |
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