MINI Countryman 2024 Review

The Malaysian C-Segment electric vehicle market is rapidly expanding, with consumers seeking models that boast high brand recognition along with practicality and range performance to meet family needs. The 2024 MINI Countryman SE All4, being MINI’s first all-electric C-segment SUV, not only continues the brand's classic design but is also equipped with a dual-motor all-wheel drive system and an LFP battery pack. Its core features include a combined 317.4PS horsepower, an official range of 432km, and spacious five-seat capacity. In this test drive, our focus is to evaluate whether it can balance MINI's driving fun with the everyday practicality of an EV.

From the exterior, the new car retains MINI's iconic round headlights and retro contours, but its dimensions have been comprehensively upgraded: length 4433mm, width 1843mm, height 1656mm, and a wheelbase of 2692mm, which is significantly larger than the previous generation gasoline version. The front features a closed grille paired with surrounding LED daytime running lights, offering high recognizability. The side profile boasts clean lines and is equipped with sporty 245/40R20 tires, while the rear features smoked LED taillights and a spoiler, adding a dynamic vibe. The overall design preserves MINI's charming genes while embodying the grandeur of a C-Segment SUV.

Entering the cabin, the 9.4-inch circular OLED screen in the center console becomes the visual focal point. The interface is smooth and supports touch interaction, complemented by physical toggle switches below, ensuring clear operational logic. The interior materials mainly consist of soft leather and metallic trims, offering a premium feel. The front seats support electric adjustment, memory, and massage functions, ensuring comfort even on long journeys. Space is a highlight, as a 175cm tall passenger sitting in the rear still has about two fists of legroom and adequate headroom. The trunk's default capacity is ample enough to accommodate three carry-on suitcases, and folding the rear seats in a 40:20:40 ratio can expand the storage further. In terms of configuration, features such as HUD (head-up display), a 360-degree panoramic camera, automatic parking, and a full suite of active safety systems (including lane-keeping assistance and automated braking) come standard, meeting daily convenience and safety needs.

In terms of dynamic driving, the dual-motor all-wheel drive system provides a combined output of 317.4PS, delivering immediate power response upon acceleration. The official 0-100km/h time is 5.6 seconds, and in real-world experience, pressing the accelerator deeply provides a noticeably exhilarating push-back sensation, with ample power reserves for overtaking. The suspension system adopts a front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link independent structure, tuned for sportiness while maintaining comfort. It smoothly absorbs bumps from speed bumps, and body roll is well-controlled during high-speed cornering, with the steering maintaining precision, all while retaining MINI's distinct driving pleasure. Regarding range, in urban conditions during our testing with the air conditioning and music on, the actual range achieved about 85% of the official figures, with an energy consumption of approximately 16kWh/100km. Range drops slightly on highways, but the official 432km range is sufficient for daily commutes and weekend short trips. Additionally, the vehicle offers excellent soundproofing, with wind and tire noise well-contained at high speeds. The seats provide good support and wrapping for enhanced comfort.

In summary, the main advantages of the 2024 MINI Countryman SE All4 are evident: first, it has high brand recognition with a design that balances retro and modern styles; second, it offers strong practicality with a five-seat layout and flexible storage to meet family needs; third, it comes well-equipped, with massage seats, HUD, and a full suite of safety systems as standard, making its price-performance ratio stand out among luxury electric vehicles in the same segment. Compared to competitors like the BMW iX1 or Mercedes-Benz EQB, its price is more affordable (RM 260,000) while retaining a purer driving pleasure. This car is suitable for two types of buyers: first, young families pursuing individuality and branding while requiring five-seat space; second, consumers who love the MINI driving experience and wish to transition to an electric vehicle. Overall, it is a pure electric SUV that balances fun and practicality, fully meeting the needs of the C-segment market.