The Mini Countryman Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) was launched in Malaysia on 5 April 2018. The Countryman PHEV as of 2020 comes standard with the Wired package; before its introduction was an RM18,000 option that includes additional equipment and updates. Mechanical specifications are identical as before and are priced on the road without insurance at RM258,888. Prices including the 2020/2021 SST exemption is RM 255,149.

Dimensions for Length, Width, Height in (mm) are 4,299 x 1,822 x 1,557. Wheelbase is 2,670 mm.

The second-generation Countryman is designed to be leaner and more masculine than its predecessor. As opposed to the more urban look the first generation had, the current Countryman sports a stronger SUV look.

The rear receives the same treatment and now resembles closer to the Cooper hatchback than before. The bumper comes with a two-tone finish with a gloss black centrepiece and touched up with contrasting sills and diffuser elements. Differentiating the Countryman variants is the yellow Mini Electric badge on the rear trunk.

Headlamps are LED units with cornering and daytime driving lights. Fog lights are also LED units.

Tail lamps are LED units.

The wing mirrors are power-adjustable, retractable, auto fold and can be customised with black or white caps.

Front brakes are ventilated discs and rear solid disc units.

Rims are 19-inch Edged spoke units, replacing the Yours Masterpiece design.

Whilst the previous generation completely fulfilled the Mini circular design stuffed with hidden Mickeys and a lack of rulers, the current generation takes its design cues from the hatchback and does its own symmetry with the air vent design and across the dashboard. The overall styling is still very unique to Mini with simple and easy fonts and readouts.

Unlike the first generation Countryman, and the pre-upgraded Wired PHEV variant, the current range specs a good sized 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment unit that is compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay (note wireless). 

The driver multi-info display shows sufficient vehicle information together with variable cruise control and the battery charging gauge.

Upholstery is the same Carbon Black Leather Cross Punch. A combination of leather and suede.

Unlike the non-hybridised Countryman’s, the PHEV’s rear passenger seats do not slide forwards. However they do recline with a 40:20:40 folding and have 405-litre boot space and open up to 1,275-litres with the rear seats down.

There’s audio, driver instrument controls and cruise and limiter function. 

There are two primary cupholders on the front centre console. And accompanying slots by the doors.

There are three USB type C ports for charging (two below the centre armrest for rear passengers and one at the front together with a Type A). There’s a wireless Qi charger located in the centre armrest as well.

As it is, the build quality is still superior and premium, with good cabin insulation. This follows BMW’s own quality control despite it being assembled in Malaysia.

Due to the PHEV battery, the Countryman PHEV is deficient in 45-litres compared to the non-hybridised models. Space stands at 405-litres of boot and opens up to 1,275-litres with folded rear seats.

Active safety includes anti-lock braking system, brakes assist, cornering brake control, electronic braking force distribution, dynamic braking lights, and attention assist.

Passive safety includes front and side airbags for driver and front passenger and head airbags for all four seats. Isofix child seat anchors are on the rear passenger seats, as well as also includes reverse cameras.

Driver assistance includes park distance control, rear view camera and driver head-up display.

In terms of equipment, the 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment unit is compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay.

There are 12-speakers for the Harman Kardon audio system as standard. 

The Countryman PHEV is powered by a main 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine that outputs 134 hp and 220 Nm of torque. This is supplemented by an 87 hp electric motor with 165 Nm of torque. Total system output is 224 hp and 385 Nm.

Transmission is a 6-speed Steptronic automatic.

The Countryman PHEV is an ALL4 all-wheel drive system. The combustion engine powers the front wheels while the electric motor drives the rear. The system comes together for the all-wheel drive mode.

It takes just three and a half hours to charge the PHEV battery on a standard household three-pin socket.

The Mini Connected system in the Countryman PHEV has a built-in 4G SIM card, which allows for Intelligent Emergency Call, Concierge Service as well as Remote and eDrive Services that work with Mini’s Connected app. The app provides several remote access features to the car, including options to set climatisation, check the lock and unlock statuses, flash headlights, honk the horn and check battery levels and more.

Ride comfort is firm and confident and the weight of the battery although adds weight, Mini has balanced it well with the power delivery.

Sound insulation is good as per Mini’s with commendable cabin quietness.