2025 Countryman EV Test Drive: Not What You’d Expect, But It’s a Blast

The Mini brand is known for its unique design, small size, and fun driving experience. Now the company has expanded its vehicle range even further by launching the fully electric Mini Countryman. The 2025 Mini Countryman SE EV symbolizes this change. Not only has the car gotten bigger and heavier, but it has also been infused with electric power that further highlights the Mini’s sporty nature.

Great Performance, Fun Ride

A combination of two electric power units front and rear in the Countryman SE EV produces total output reaching 308 horsepower and 364 lb-ft of torque. The motors within this system enable the car to speed up from zero to sixty miles per hour in only 4.7 seconds. The vehicle reaches 102.6 mph with a quarter mile duration of 13.4 seconds.

The new Mini achieves the position of being the fastest model in Mini’s lineup surpassing its JCW gasoline counterpart. When purchased at $50,000, customers may find the performance lacks impressive speed compared to dual-motor EVs in the market.

Handling and Driving Experience

The car’s precise response on city streets and compact size help it maneuver easily in traffic. The steering is very light and responds quickly. It weighs about 4,572 pounds, which is 800 pounds more than its gas version, yet its suspension handles it well.

The accelerator is very responsive for a “go-kart” driving experience. The braking system is also quick and the pedal power is gradually realized.

A BMW-like feel, Mini’s identity

The Mini remains under BMW ownership and shows clear BMW characteristics throughout the driving experience as well as internal elements. The window switches and air vent controls and steering wheel display similarities with the BMW X1 because these vehicles share construction from the UKL2 platform.

Like the BMW, it comes with Harman Kardon speakers, augmented reality navigation, and driver assist technology. But the Mini retains its own identity, such as textile detailing on the steering wheel, a dashboard with light-projection, and decor that glows at night.

Design excess, technology shortage

The Mini’s signature central circular touchscreen has become more than just a design element. While the 9.5-inch screen looks fun, its user interface can be confusing at times. The tiny touch buttons and climate controls can be tricky to operate.

The Mini’s unit was so slow that it took about 90 seconds for navigation to load. This experience was also experienced by several MotorTrend testers in different Mini models, which suggests that the system’s performance lacks consistency.

Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are also difficult to fit on the round screen. Putting a square system into a circular interface doesn’t make the most of the screen.

Range and charging limitations

While the Mini is named “Mini,” its range and charging speeds live up to that name. The EPA estimates a range of just 212 miles, but our testing managed just 200 miles.

When connected to a 350-kW charger, it charges at a top speed of 131 kW and gets an average charging speed of 100 kW. 15 minutes adds 98 miles of range, and 30 minutes adds 156 miles of range, making it perfect as a local runabout or second car.

Mini’s cool style remains

The Countryman SE isn’t perfect—its infotainment system is slow, range is short, and the price is a little high. But when it comes to the driving experience, it has the same Mini-fun vibe.

Mini was never set out to make the most practical cars. It makes vehicles that never look boring. And this 2025 electric Countryman SE reinforces that idea.

Conclusion

The 2025 Mini Countryman SE EV is the start of a new generation. This car shows how Mini can keep its traditional fun and creative design alive even in electric format. Although its price, limited range, and technology shortcomings don’t make it perfect for all buyers, the Mini Countryman SE is a great choice for those who want a character-filled, fun-to-drive electric SUV.

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