MINI to debut plug-in hybrid at Goodwood | New Release - Car News May 2017

16:17 Friday 12 May 2017

MINI’s first ever plug-in hybrid model will debut at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed, the manufacturer has announced.

Order books have already been opened on the MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 hybrid even before it makes its maiden UK appearance at the event, which starts on 29th June. The model is priced from £31,585 on-the-road, but with zero tailpipe emissions is also eligible for a £2,500 Government grant.

The all-wheel drive system MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 hybrid has a 3-cylinder petrol engine plus a synchronous electric motor, together generating a system output of 165 kW/224 hp. With a 6-speed Steptronic gearbox, this gives the new model a 0-62mph of 6.8 seconds. Utilising the virtually silent electric motor from a standing start, the petrol engine gently kicks in at 50mph, although the driver can continue to select electric power only via the eDRIVE switch. The new model has a 25 mile all-electric range, and can run at up to 78mph without producing local emissions.

Its high-voltage lithium-ion battery can be charged using a conventional household socket or, for increased power input and faster charging, at a wallbox or public charging station. A full charge takes between two-and-a-quarter and three-and-a-quarter hours. The battery comes with a 6-year/60,000-mile warranty which lasts for six years or 60,000 miles. With the battery housed beneath the rear seat and boot, a flat load floor is made possible giving 405 litres of boot space. This grows to 1,275-litres once the rear backrests are folded down.

Standard equipment includes SatNav, Bluetooth, Cruise Control, Emergency E-call and Active Guard.
An “E” emblem on the radiator grille and side scuttles distinguish the model, as well as door sill finishers with a yellow “S” logo, exclusive 17-inch light alloy wheels, hybrid-specific dash displays and the eDRIVE toggle switch.

The MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 can be ordered now at MINI retailers.