New Electric Looks: Mini Cooper and Countryman
Mini Cooper has perfected the art of keeping classic current — and staying current is all about going electric. Mini CEO Stefanie Wurst says Mini will be fully electric by 2030. In this context, Mini showed off its next Gen cars ahead of its annual hometown auto show, IAA, in Munich, Germany.
Now in its fifth generation, the signature Mini Cooper is a shape that is eternally mod. The Mini form is whimsical, immediately identifiable, and quirky cool, true to the ethos of the Mini customer cohort. But a closer look reveals a continual evolution to streamline that design Language, adding elements of personalization and distinction in its fifth generation.
Gone is the plastic around wheel arches which are smoothed out in flush surfaces. Circular headlights contrast against octagonal lines of a new grille. Silver replaces chrome. A high- voltage battery is installed in the floor, designed for spirited handling.
Sophia Thakur performs with the 2025 Mini Cooper and Mini Countryman in Munich, Germany.
The new Mini mixes the analog experience of its round dash with more accessible digital features in its ninth operating system. It’s offered in four available trims and materials are made from recycled polyester. Driver assistance features such as Parking Assistant Plus are aided by 12 ultrasonic sensors and four surround-view cameras. A smartphone can be used to power the car instead of a traditional key. The engine offers a range of about 190 miles, and can be fast-charged from 10 per cent to 80 per cent in under 30 minutes. Its sold as a gas-powered model, too.
The larger, elongated Countryman has more easily identifiable changes in its more cubic rear form. In its all-electric version has two driving set ups — the MINI Countryman E with an output of 204 hp and produces about 287 the MINI Countryman SE ALL4 that produces 313 hp and a range of 269 miles.
Countryman carries over much of the DNA and inspo from Cooper, such as its available four trim choices. It offers driver assistant features that allow for level two autonomy. Say “Hey Mini” and the new personal assistant system will respond.
Both vehicles go on sale in 2024 for the 2025 model year, and will also be sold as gas variants. The electric Cooper will initially not be available in the US. “The concept of a small electric car is a gigantic leap for people in urban environments and people making concious choices,” Wurst says. “Electric drivetrain and Mini fits really well. It seems to fit well in terms of the construction of the car and demographics and the mindset of our customers.”