First Look at the Base MINI Countryman E & Countryman C

What does the base Countryman look like and what does “E” and “C” even mean? MINI has released plenty of images and data on the new Countryman but almost all of us has been focused on the higher-end electric Countryman SE. But what about the base models? We’ve got some of the first photos and a few exclusive details on what will surely be some of the most popular MINIs in the years ahead.

The U25 MINI Countryman Range Explained.

First let’s discuss the broader model range. The MINI Countryman is unique in the new MINI model range in allowing both electric and ICE to be offered. This has only been accomplished by designing the FAAR platform from the ground up to accommodate both in unique and very bespoke ways. If the upside it choice for the consumer, the downside is packaging trade-offs that limit the size of the battery pack amongst others things.

There are three base models in the new Countryman; the electric Countryman E, the petrol Countryman C and the diesel Countryman D. It’s important to note that not all markets will receive these base models. While it’s not a surprise the US market will not be importing the Countryman D, we can exclusively report that MINI USA will also not be brining the base ICE model – the Countryman C. The Countryman E is likely not being imported at launch but might eventually see the US market.

Base MINI Countryman E and Countryman C performance

The electric Countryman E will have an output of 204 hp and 184 ft lbs of torque. Interestingly that more than even the previous ICE powered Countryman S. The Countryman C will have 167 HP with a 131 MPH top speed. What we don’t have are 0-30 times which we can assume will be quicker for the Countryman E given the immediacy of its torque.

On the other end of the line-up will be the MINI Countryman SE ALL4 will deliver the most power ever seen in a MINI – 313 hp and 364 ft lbs of torque. Where the F60 ICE powered Countryman All4 S could do 0-62 mph (0-100 kph) in 7.3 seconds, this new 313 hp MINI Countryman SE does the same in only 5.6 seconds. That’s nearly a staggering 2 second improvement.

The ICE powered Countryman JCW has a similar HP power figure and quite a bit less torque. However with less weight to carry is can hit 62 mph in only 5.4 seconds. You can read more about the new ICE MINI Countryman JCW here.

MINI Countryman E Range

The MINI Countryman will not only be the most powerful ever but offer the more electric range than we’ve seen from the brand. The base MINI Countryman E will have a WLTP calculated range of 287 miles from its 64 kWh battery.

Four Individual Trims for the MINI Countryman E And Countryman C

Just because it’s the base model doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of ways to personalize it. U25 MINI Countryman E and C will be available in four different trims that effectively package a number of exterior and interior changes in easy to choose packages. However one important note, it’s unclear if MINI USA will leverage these trim specifications or create their own.

Essential Trim

The Essential Trim is standard and features trim in Vibrant Silver. Based on early information Essential will be available with a limited selection of brighter colors such as the new Indigo Sunset Blue. Certain functional parts on the inside and outside are highlighted with the new accent color Vibrant Silver – essentially a matte silver with a hint of champagne

Classic Trim

In the Classic Trim, MINI uses a modern 2D knitted textile in the interior of a production vehicle for the first time. On the dashboard and door handles, two-tone black knitted textile provides a contrast to the high-quality synthetic leather seat. Additionally Classic offers the option of Vibrant Silver for the roof matching the contrasting front grille.

Favored Trim

Favored Trim is the most expressive option, featuring a two-tone houndstooth pattern on the knitted-textile instrument panel. Available in two colors and with traditional accent stitching, the perforated Vescin sports seats complement in dark and light colors. The exterior with the front grille in Vibrant Silver can be combined with the all-new Spray-Tech roof which features a blending of three different colors. 

JCW Trim

Similar to BMW’s M Sport trim, MINI will offer a JCW Trim even on non JCWs. The JCW Trim has a distinctive front and year design. The frame of the front grille and the logo in high-gloss black are unique to this trim. Additionally the JCW Trim will offer a Chili Red roof for the first time on a non-JCW car. Finally JCW bonnet stripes will be offered in Chili Red or black.

Inside the JCW Trim offers the sportiest interpretation of the new materials. Combined with multi-colored knitted textile and black synthetic leather with red stitching, the JCW seat with sports seat geometry echoes the colors of the dashboard and door trim. 

Availability of the MINI Countryman C and Countryman E

The base models of the Countryman will be available globally with some exceptions. The biggest exception will be the US market where we will not see either imported at launch. While that may eventually change, it would appear that MINI USA plans to start with higher-spec, more profitable models at launch.

MINI Countryman E Gallery

For more coverage of the new generation MINI, check out the following articles and videos.

MINI Cooper EV: Premier | MINI Cooper EV: Hands-On Review | MINI Cooper EV: Video Review

MINI Countryman EV: Premier | MINI Countryman EV: Hands-On Review | MINI Countryman EV: Video Review

New MINI Family: 1st Look Video | MINI Circular Display & MINI OS9 Hands-On Review