2021 MINI Cooper Countryman SE: Review, Specs & More

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2021 MINI Cooper Countryman SE, a plug-in hybrid that promises the iconic MINI charm with a dash of eco-friendliness. If you're wondering whether this quirky crossover is the right fit for your lifestyle, you've come to the right place. Let's get started!

Overview of the 2021 MINI Cooper Countryman SE

The 2021 MINI Cooper Countryman SE All4 is MINI's foray into the plug-in hybrid market, blending the familiar MINI styling and handling with an efficient hybrid powertrain. It combines a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with an electric motor, offering all-wheel drive and a combined output of 224 horsepower. This setup allows for a purely electric driving range, making it suitable for short commutes while still providing the flexibility of a gasoline engine for longer journeys. The Countryman SE also retains the practicality of the standard Countryman, with a spacious interior and ample cargo space. For those looking to dip their toes into the world of electric vehicles without sacrificing the fun-to-drive factor, the 2021 MINI Cooper Countryman SE presents an intriguing option. It's a vehicle that aims to deliver the best of both worlds: the efficiency and environmental benefits of an electric car, and the range and convenience of a traditional gasoline-powered one. The integration of the electric motor and gasoline engine is seamless, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience. The electric motor delivers instant torque, which enhances acceleration, while the gasoline engine kicks in to provide additional power when needed. This combination makes the Countryman SE feel surprisingly quick and agile, especially in city driving conditions. Furthermore, the all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction and stability, regardless of the road conditions. Whether you're navigating through snowy streets or cruising down the highway, the Countryman SE offers a confident and secure driving experience. The interior of the Countryman SE is also well-appointed, with comfortable seats, high-quality materials, and a user-friendly infotainment system. The cabin is spacious enough to accommodate five passengers, and the rear seats can be folded down to create even more cargo space. The infotainment system includes a variety of features, such as Apple CarPlay compatibility, navigation, and real-time traffic updates. Overall, the 2021 MINI Cooper Countryman SE is a well-rounded plug-in hybrid that offers a compelling combination of efficiency, performance, and practicality. It's a vehicle that's sure to appeal to those who want to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing the fun and excitement of driving a MINI.

Performance and Handling

Let's talk performance! The 2021 MINI Cooper Countryman SE doesn't disappoint. Under the hood, you'll find a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor. Together, they crank out a respectable 224 horsepower and 284 lb-ft of torque. This power is sent to all four wheels via an All4 all-wheel-drive system, providing excellent traction in various conditions. The electric motor provides instant torque, making the Countryman SE surprisingly quick off the line. The transition between electric and gasoline power is seamless, and the car feels responsive and eager to accelerate. The Countryman SE offers several driving modes, including a pure electric mode for emissions-free driving. In this mode, the car can travel up to 17 miles on electric power alone, which is perfect for short commutes or errands around town. When the battery is depleted, the gasoline engine kicks in automatically, allowing you to continue driving without range anxiety. The handling of the Countryman SE is typical MINI – nimble and engaging. The steering is precise and well-weighted, and the car corners flat with minimal body roll. The suspension is firm but not harsh, providing a comfortable ride on most road surfaces. Overall, the 2021 MINI Cooper Countryman SE is a fun-to-drive and capable vehicle that offers a good balance of performance and efficiency. It's a great choice for those who want a stylish and practical crossover with a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The regenerative braking system helps to recapture energy during deceleration, further enhancing efficiency. The system is well-integrated and doesn't feel intrusive, providing a natural braking feel. The Countryman SE also comes standard with a variety of driver-assistance features, such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These features help to enhance safety and provide added peace of mind. The interior of the Countryman SE is also well-designed and comfortable, with supportive seats and high-quality materials. The infotainment system is easy to use and features a variety of connectivity options, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Overall, the 2021 MINI Cooper Countryman SE is a well-rounded and enjoyable vehicle to drive. It offers a good combination of performance, efficiency, and practicality, making it a great choice for those who want a stylish and eco-friendly crossover.

Interior and Technology

Step inside the 2021 MINI Cooper Countryman SE, and you'll be greeted by a familiar MINI interior. The design is quirky and stylish, with a large central display, toggle switches, and a variety of customizable options. The seats are comfortable and supportive, and there's plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The Countryman SE also offers a decent amount of cargo space, making it practical for everyday use. Tech-wise, the Countryman SE comes standard with an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which includes Apple CarPlay compatibility. The system is easy to use and responsive, and the graphics are clear and sharp. Other available features include navigation, a Harman Kardon sound system, and a head-up display. One of the standout features of the Countryman SE is its MINI Connected app, which allows you to remotely monitor and control various aspects of the car. You can use the app to check the battery level, start the engine, pre-condition the cabin, and even locate the car. The app also provides access to a variety of other features, such as real-time traffic updates and online search. Overall, the interior and technology of the 2021 MINI Cooper Countryman SE are well-designed and user-friendly. The car offers a good balance of style, comfort, and convenience, making it a great choice for those who want a tech-savvy and practical crossover. The customizable options allow you to personalize the interior to your liking, and the MINI Connected app provides a seamless and connected driving experience. The ambient lighting adds a touch of elegance to the cabin, and the available panoramic sunroof provides plenty of natural light. The Countryman SE also comes standard with a variety of safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These features help to enhance safety and provide added peace of mind. The overall design of the interior is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, creating a comfortable and enjoyable driving environment. The attention to detail is evident throughout the cabin, from the high-quality materials to the thoughtful placement of controls. The 2021 MINI Cooper Countryman SE is a well-rounded and stylish crossover that offers a good combination of practicality, technology, and comfort.

Fuel Economy and Range

When it comes to fuel economy, the 2021 MINI Cooper Countryman SE shines, especially if you utilize its plug-in hybrid capabilities. The EPA estimates that it achieves 73 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) combined when running on both electric and gasoline power. On gasoline alone, it's rated at 29 MPG combined. The electric-only range is estimated at 17 miles, which is sufficient for many short commutes and errands. Of course, real-world fuel economy will vary depending on driving conditions and how often you charge the battery. If you primarily drive short distances and charge regularly, you can significantly reduce your fuel consumption. The Countryman SE can be charged using a standard 120-volt household outlet, but a 240-volt Level 2 charger will significantly reduce charging time. With a Level 2 charger, the battery can be fully charged in about 3 hours. The Countryman SE also features regenerative braking, which helps to recapture energy during deceleration and further improve fuel efficiency. The system is well-integrated and doesn't feel intrusive, providing a natural braking feel. Overall, the 2021 MINI Cooper Countryman SE offers excellent fuel economy and a decent electric-only range, making it a great choice for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on gas. The plug-in hybrid powertrain provides the best of both worlds: the efficiency of an electric car and the range of a gasoline-powered one. The ability to drive on electric power alone for short distances can significantly reduce fuel consumption, especially for those who primarily drive in urban areas. The regenerative braking system helps to further enhance efficiency, and the available Level 2 charger makes it easy to keep the battery topped up. The Countryman SE also comes standard with a variety of driver-assistance features, such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These features help to enhance safety and provide added peace of mind. The interior of the Countryman SE is also well-designed and comfortable, with supportive seats and high-quality materials. The infotainment system is easy to use and features a variety of connectivity options, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Overall, the 2021 MINI Cooper Countryman SE is a well-rounded and enjoyable vehicle to drive. It offers a good combination of performance, efficiency, and practicality, making it a great choice for those who want a stylish and eco-friendly crossover.

Pricing and Value

The 2021 MINI Cooper Countryman SE typically starts around $41,500. However, the final price can vary depending on the options and packages you choose. While this price point is higher than some of its competitors, the Countryman SE offers a unique blend of style, performance, and efficiency. When evaluating its value, consider the potential savings on fuel costs, especially if you can utilize the electric-only range for most of your daily driving. Additionally, the Countryman SE may be eligible for federal and state tax credits, which can further reduce the overall cost of ownership. The standard features and equipment of the Countryman SE also add to its value proposition. It comes well-equipped with features such as an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay compatibility, and a variety of driver-assistance features. The all-wheel-drive system provides added traction and stability, making it a capable vehicle in all weather conditions. Overall, the 2021 MINI Cooper Countryman SE offers a good value proposition for those who are looking for a stylish, efficient, and fun-to-drive crossover. The plug-in hybrid powertrain provides the best of both worlds: the efficiency of an electric car and the range of a gasoline-powered one. The potential savings on fuel costs and the availability of tax credits can help to offset the higher initial price. The standard features and equipment of the Countryman SE also add to its value, making it a well-rounded and desirable vehicle. The MINI brand also carries a certain cachet, and the Countryman SE is sure to turn heads wherever you go. The customizable options allow you to personalize the car to your liking, and the MINI Connected app provides a seamless and connected driving experience. The ambient lighting adds a touch of elegance to the cabin, and the available panoramic sunroof provides plenty of natural light. The Countryman SE also comes standard with a variety of safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These features help to enhance safety and provide added peace of mind. The overall design of the interior is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, creating a comfortable and enjoyable driving environment. The attention to detail is evident throughout the cabin, from the high-quality materials to the thoughtful placement of controls. The 2021 MINI Cooper Countryman SE is a well-rounded and stylish crossover that offers a good combination of practicality, technology, and comfort.

Is the 2021 MINI Cooper Countryman SE Right for You?

So, is the 2021 MINI Cooper Countryman SE the right car for you? If you're looking for a stylish, fun-to-drive, and relatively efficient crossover with a plug-in hybrid powertrain, then it's definitely worth considering. It's a great choice for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing the driving experience. However, if you need a lot of cargo space or have a long commute, you might want to consider other options. Also, the higher price point may be a deterrent for some buyers. Ultimately, the best way to decide if the Countryman SE is right for you is to take it for a test drive and see how it fits your lifestyle. Consider your daily driving needs, your budget, and your preferences when making your decision. The 2021 MINI Cooper Countryman SE is a unique and appealing vehicle that offers a lot of benefits, but it's not for everyone. Do your research, compare it to other options, and make an informed decision. The MINI brand is known for its quirky and fun-loving image, and the Countryman SE embodies that spirit. It's a car that's sure to put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel. The plug-in hybrid powertrain provides a smooth and responsive driving experience, and the all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction and stability. The interior is well-designed and comfortable, with plenty of features and amenities. The exterior styling is distinctive and eye-catching, and the Countryman SE is sure to stand out from the crowd. Overall, the 2021 MINI Cooper Countryman SE is a well-rounded and desirable vehicle that offers a good combination of style, performance, efficiency, and practicality. It's a great choice for those who want a stylish and eco-friendly crossover that's fun to drive and easy to live with.