The Countryman Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) Wired is the updated version of the popular compact crossover by Mini. The update, introduced last year, features added equipment and an additional RM18,000 on top of the standard RM250,888 retail price. We take the Countryman PHEV Wired for a spin and list the five most exciting features we experienced with this electrified Mini.
Features update
The Wired package comes with a list of add-ons to the Countryman PHEV. The upgrades include an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment unit that comes compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay (up from the 6.5-inch unit in the standard variant), a Heads-up display that projects essential driver centric information to a screen on the dashboard, three new USB Type C ports that join a single Type-A port, a wireless Qi charger in the center armrest, a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, and 19-inch Edged Spoke rims.
The Wired package comes with 19-inch Edged spoke rims (left), while the standard PHEV features the Yours Masterpiece rims (right).
Electrified power
Propelling the Countryman PHEV is a main 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder petrol unit that outputs 134 hp and 220 Nm of torque that drives the front wheels. An electric motor further assists the combustion engine with 87 hp and 165 Nm of torque that drives the rear wheels.
In unison, the total system output is 221 hp and 385 Nm, one that goes through a six-speed Steptronic automatic transmission and Mini’s ALL4 all-wheel drive for the best traction at all weather conditions. Accelerating hard from a standstill will propel this PHEV to the 100 km/h sprint in just 6.8-seconds. Because the PHEV can drive solely on battery power, the 7.6 kWh lithium-ion battery can provide the driver with an all-electric driving range of 40 km.
Loaded infotainment unit
One of the joys of the infotainment unit here is not only the larger display, but also the addition of wireless Apple CarPlay that comes as standard with the Wired package. Thanks to the BMW Professional system underneath the Mini Connected software, user interface and experience is easy to navigate and made fun with Mini’s colorful themes and animations.
Because the Mini Connected system comes with a built-in 4G SIM, the Countryman PHEV includes Intelligent Emergency Call, Concierge Service as well as Remote and eDrive Services that work with Mini’s Connected app. The app provides several remote access features to the car, including options to set climatization, check the lock and unlock statuses, flash headlights, honk the horn and check battery levels amongst others.
Driving dynamics and day-to-day use
As with most PHEV’s, the vehicle set up prioritizes on electric driving on the get-go, and a power assist when performance is required. With a fully charged battery, the driver can toggle to Max eDrive mode and head to the destination emissions-free, provided it is within accumulated battery range. Driving dynamics of the Countryman PHEV is, in part very similar to the Countryman Sport we’ve reviewed – firm and confident with sharp steering and a level of connectedness to the road that Mini is known. The addition of the Heads-up display does keep that focus on the road, a feature that we often praise and look for in When it comes to recharging the battery, it takes a mere three hours and a half via a standard three-pin domestic wall socket.
Is it electrifying?
The picnic bench folds out from under the trunk.
Without a doubt, we dare say that the PHEV Wired is a genuinely wholesome Mini Countryman offered in the market today. However, we are conflicted with recommending the Wired package that costs an RM18,000 premium over the RM250,888 standard Countryman PHEV retail price. As an alternative, if the Mini ownership and experience is one that takes priority over the hybrid powertrain, the Countryman Sports variant priced at RM248,888 is a solid choice.
The Mini Countryman background
The Mini Countryman requires no introduction. It represents the brand’s first venture into the compact crossover category and the first modern Mini to come with four-doors. The Mini Countryman Plug-In Hybrid and Countryman Sports variants are the second-generation models on sale in Malaysia. These Countryman variants are locally assembled, which makes Malaysia the first market in the world after the Netherlands to produce these cars.
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Keyword: Mini Countryman PHEV Wired: Five things you need to know about Mini’s latest plug-in hybrid model