The MINI Cooper and MINI Countryman are now available in ICE and electric variants

Photos: Clifford Chow and Augustine Lai

SINGAPORE

MINI recently launched two very important models at One Holland Village – the all-new MINI Cooper and MINI Countryman. If you do not know, MINI is on a path to full-electrification. Therefore, both models are now available with an electric drivetrain (a first for the MINI Countryman) and a petrol version as well. With the new cars, it is clear that MINI has gone on to reposition themselves a notch further up the premium brand ladder. But MINI enthusiasts will be pleased to know that while the iconic marque has evolved to become more luxurious, it still stays true to its origins and traditions.

Head of MINI Asia, Mr Daren Ching expressed with excitement saying ‘’The new MINI family is finally here, and it delivers pure charisma and premium refinement in spades’’. He added that the introduction of all-electric drivetrains across the new MINI Cooper and MINI Countryman lineup, allows drivers to embrace sustainable motoring in style, while maximising experiences with a responsible approach. Ms. Cheryl Chiok, Managing Director of Eurokars Habitat, also mentioned that the all-new MINI Cooper E,  is now classified under Category A COE, with the range offering seven distinct model variants. Customers now have unprecedented choices to express their flair and individuality, while still remaining faithful to the distinctive spirit of MINI.

With a new design language titled, ‘Charismatic Simplicity’, the new MINIs’ are characterised with short overhangs, a compact bonnet, long wheelbase and larger wheels; along with a distinctive three-part division between the body, windows, and contrasting roof. All this, while retaining the MINI DNA. At the front, both models feature an expressive octagonal grille that defines their bold aesthetic. Signature LED daytime running lights have a crafted welcome and farewell animation, heightening anticipation even before you start your MINI journey.

The new MINI will come with 8 experience modes

The interior of the new models also feature several changes. For instance, the new circular OLED display interface, which adopts new graphic resolution for a complete new feel, and thanks to the MINI Operating System 9 coupled with the MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant, the majority of the vehicle functions can now be operated intuitively through voice recognition, or by a touch of a button –  first for the brand.

For the first time, MINI also introduced seven different Experience Modes – Go-Kart mode emphasises MINI’s racing DNA, featuring dynamic anthracite and red accents, all this, to accompany a sharper drive. Vivid Mode mimics ambient lighting colours from album covers, while Core Mode, Green Mode, Timeless Mode, Balance Mode and Personal Mode cater to various moods and needs. Additionally, the unique Trail mode, exclusive to the MINI Countryman, satisfies drivers’ desire to explore. 

MINI’s approach to the interiors are also all new, with the integrating of knitted textiles and recycled material, the interiors of their new range of cars provide occupants with a sense of warmth, while reminding them about MINI’s commitment to sustainability.

Some performance numbers

The all-new MINI Cooper E features a 110kW (146hp) electric motor producing 290 Nm of torque, which allows it to accelerate to 100km/h in 8.4 seconds. Its 40.7kWh battery provides it with a range of 305km.

Meanwhile, the MINI Cooper SE puts out 160kW (212hp), and 330Nm, which enables it to reach 100km/h, in 6.7 seconds. With its larger 54.2kWh battery, it delivers a maximum range of 402km, which is significantly more than the previous MINI Cooper SE.

The petrol variant of the MINI Cooper S, which is essentially a heavily face-lifted version of the previous car, gets its drive from the same 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine. Over here it delivers 198hp and 300Nm, and it is paired to the same dual-clutch 7-speed transmission, driving the front wheels. It clocks the century sprint in 6.6 seconds.

The all-new MINI Countryman E ALL4 puts out 150kW (198hp) and 250Nm, which gets it to 100km/h in 8.6 seconds. Drive is via a pair of motors, which provides its all-wheel drive. Its 66.5kWh battery provides it a maximum range of 462km. The MINI Countryman SE ALL4 puts out a combined 230kW (304hp) and 494Nm, which allows it to reach 100km/h in 5.6 seconds. While it has the same 66.5kW as the Countryman E, its maximum range is slightly lower at 433km.

The MINI John Cooper Works Countryman ALL4 was also premiered during the launch. It receives its drive from the proven BMW-sourced two-litre inline-four, paired to a seven-speed Sport Dual Clutch Transmission.It puts out 292hp and 400Nm, and does 100km/h in 5.4 seconds.

Prices for the all-new MINI Cooper S, MINI Cooper E and MINI Cooper SE are  S$244,888, S$195,888 and S$217,888 respectively. Whereas, the all-new MINI Countryman E ALL4 and SE ALL4 are  S$229,888 and S$243,888 respectively. The high-performance MINI John Cooper Works Countryman ALL4 is priced at S$292,888.

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