2025 Minis showcase innovative EV technology and bold designs

author: FutureCar Staff    

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In 2020, the Mini Cooper SE demonstrated that an all-electric Mini can offer a fun driving experience. However, its limited range of only 110 miles (177 km) posed a challenge. Looking ahead to 2025, Mini is fully embracing electrification with the upcoming Cooper E and SE models, which now boast a more substantial range.

Let's begin by clarifying the models and trims offered by Mini. The Mini Cooper will now refer to the three- or five-door configurations, including the Convertible. While there will still be gas-powered Cooper and Cooper S models, Mini is currently unveiling the electric Cooper E and SE, which are built on a different platform. These Coopers will be available in four cosmetic trims: Essential, Classic, Favoured, and JCW.

In addition to the Cooper models, Mini has also introduced the new Mini Countryman. This crossover SUV is now larger and more capable, and it is available in both electric and gasoline-powered versions.

Let's focus on the electric Cooper models. The Cooper E trim offers 184 hp (137 kW) and 214 lb-ft (290 Nm) of torque, with a 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) time of 7.3 seconds. It is estimated to have a range of 190 miles (305 km) on the European WLTP cycle, which translates to around 175 miles (281 km) on the EPA test cycle. The Cooper SE, on the other hand, provides more power with 218 hp (163 kW) and 243 lb-ft (330 Nm) of torque, accelerating from 0 to 62 mph in 6.7 seconds. Its larger 54.2 kWh battery pack allows for a range of 250 miles (402 km) on the WLTP cycle or approximately 215 miles (346 km) on the EPA cycle.

The 2025 Countryman is even bigger than its predecessor, with increased height and width. The Countryman E model offers 204 hp (152 kW) and 184 lb-ft (250 Nm) of torque, achieving a 0 to 62 mph time of 7.3 seconds. Mini is targeting a range of 287 miles (461 km) on the WLTP cycle or about 250 miles (402 km) on the EPA cycle. The Countryman SE ALL4 adds all-wheel-drive capability and boasts 313 hp (233 kW) and 364 lb-ft (493 Nm) of torque. However, the range decreases to 269 miles (476 km) on the WLTP cycle or roughly 235 miles (378 km) on the EPA cycle.

If you prefer a non-electric option, Mini also offers the Countryman in four different trims with internal combustion engines. These include the front-wheel-drive Mini Countryman C, the all-wheel-drive Mini Countryman S ALL4, and the high-performance Mini Countryman JCW ALL4. Unfortunately, specific specifications for these models have not been released yet.

While the range of the Cooper models has significantly improved compared to the previous Mini SE, the charging speeds may leave something to be desired. The Cooper E has a maximum charging speed of 75 kW, while the SE can charge at up to 95 kW. While these speeds are an improvement over the outgoing SE's 50 kW, they are relatively low compared to many modern EVs. The Countryman EV models, however, offer a faster charging rate of 130 kW.

Despite any concerns about charging speeds, the interiors of both the Cooper and Countryman models are sure to impress. The dashboards feature woven, recycled fabrics that serve as a visual light-stage for projectors integrated into the back of the 9.4-inch circular OLED panel, which functions as both an infotainment system and a gauge cluster. This "Mini Interaction Unit" runs Mini Operating System 9, which is built on top of Android and offers snappy performance and mobile device-like features. The system includes over-the-air updates and integrated multiplayer games that can be controlled using a smartphone. The user interface is highly customizable, and it is expected to support Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

FutureCar Staff