Mini has announced that it will be bringing a new electric crossover to South Africa in the second quarter of 2024.
The incoming vehicle is the new Countryman SE ALL4, which will become the brand’s second battery-powered model in the country after the Cooper SE – one of the most affordable electric vehicles (EVs) on the market.
The South African pricing for the new EV has yet to be announced, however, the larger vehicle should cost more than the Cooper, which places its retail sticker somewhere above the latter’s R783,500.
What to expect
The Countryman SE ALL4 uses two electric motors to provide power to both axles, with energy being supplied by a 66.45kWh battery pack with a driving range of roughly 433km. When using a DC cable with a capacity of up to 130kW, a 10-80% charge should take approximately 30 minutes.
The motors give the Mini a combined output of 230kW and 494Nm, letting it sprint from 0 to 100km/h in 5.6 seconds before maxing out at a top speed of 180km/h.
The crossover has also been fitted with a new Plug & Charge system, which can recognize and automatically start charging at a public charging station without additional authorization, said the company.
Furthermore, the car is equipped for Level 2 partially automated driving on the motorway, as drivers are able to take their hands off the wheel at speeds of up to 60km/h, provided they remain ready to take the wheel at a moment’s notice.
This system is able to identify gaps in traffic and make lane changes where necessary, adjusting the car’s speed in the process.
In terms of proportions, the compact SUV measures 4,433mm in length, 1,843mm in width and 1,656mm in height, making it noticeably bigger than both the Cooper SE and the base Countryman.
The front grille and bonnet have been redesigned to give the SE a fresh look, and everything has been tested to be aerodynamically optimal to improve its energy efficiency.
Also complementing the exterior look are new LED headlights and taillights, and a set of 20-inch light alloy wheels. Depending on the trim level, you’ll also receive a contrasting two-tone roof with the option of a new Vibrant Silver colour.
The interior’s focal point is a round OLED central display with a toggle bar, which pulls double duty as the driver and infotainment screen, and can be customized with different colours and patterns.
The improvements to the cabin mean that the front seats have gained about 3cm of shoulder room each, while the rear seats have gained 2.5cm of space.
Other notable fixtures include a two-tone textile upholstery, a wireless charger, a panoramic sunroof, and a new Mini Driving Sounds system to add ambience to the otherwise quiet road experience.
More information about the new Mini Countryman SE ALL4, including its local pricing, model line-up, and finalized equipment sheet, will be revealed closer to its launch date next year.
Mini Countryman SE ALL4
Keyword: New electric Mini coming to South Africa – Details