For all the Mini Gearheads, there is exciting news in the bucket for the upcoming July. On July 24, 2024, Mini will unveil the all-new electric Mini Countryman and the redesigned Mini Cooper S. The eighth-generation BMW 5 Series will also make its premiere at the same time as this unveiling. Since their global premiere last year, these cars have created a great deal of expectation, particularly with the Countryman making its electric vehicle debut in India.
Mini Countryman Electric: A New Entry
The Mini Countryman Electric is a significant addition to the Indian market, sharing its platform with the BMW iX1, which is already available here. This electric SUV features a unique octagonal grille, redesigned headlights with new signature LED daytime running lights, and updated taillights and tailgate. Inside, the Countryman Electric boasts a minimalist design with a 9.5-inch round OLED infotainment display and a head-up display that replaces the traditional instrument console.
Power and Performance
The Countryman Electric is powered by an electric motor that produces 201 brake horsepower (bhp) and 250 Nm of torque. This allows the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.6 seconds. There's also a more powerful variant, the Countryman ALL4, which has a dual-motor setup generating 309 bhp and 494 Nm of torque. Both versions use a 66.45 kWh battery pack, with the Countryman E offering a range of up to 462 km on a single charge. In India, the Countryman is likely to be available in the single-motor variant.
Pricing and Competition
The Countryman Electric will be imported as a Completely Built Unit (CBU) and is expected to be priced around Rs. 70 lakh (ex-showroom). It will compete with other electric SUVs like the Kia EV6, BMW iX1, Volvo XC40 Recharge, and Hyundai Ioniq 5.
Mini Cooper S: A Refreshing Update
The fourth-generation Mini Cooper S has undergone several updates while maintaining its classic design. It features round headlamps, an octagonal grille, and Union Jack-inspired taillights. The interior continues the minimalist theme with a large round central display that handles most in-car controls, doubling as the infotainment system and instrument cluster.
Engine and Performance
The new Mini Cooper S is powered by a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, delivering 201 bhp and 300 Nm of torque. This is an increase of 26 bhp and 20 Nm over the previous model. The car uses a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.6 seconds.
Pricing and Market Position
The outgoing 3-door Mini Cooper S hatchback is priced at Rs. 42.70 lakh (ex-showroom), and the new model is expected to be priced slightly higher. Although the Mini Cooper S does not have direct competitors, it will be up against entry-level luxury cars from brands like BMW, Mercedes, and Audi.
In Conclusion, the upcoming launch of the Mini Cooper S and the electric Mini Countryman in India marks an exciting development for car lovers. These models bring together updated design, enhanced performance, and innovative features. With Countryman Electric joining the market, Mini is also stepping into the rapidly growing segment of electric vehicles in India. Enthusiasts and potential buyers are eagerly waiting to see these new models hit the roads, promising a blend of classic Mini charm and modern technology.
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