The MINI Countryman is a small crossover SUV with more of an emphasis on performance than efficiency, though the Hybrid Plug-In model adds a dose of practicality. It competes against other MINI models as well as small crossovers like the Hyundai Kona.

What’s New for the 2023 MINI Countryman Hybrid Plug-In

The MINI Countryman gained the Hybrid Plug-In powertrain for the 2018 model year, and the lineup has been steadily updated in the years since with new standard and optional features. For 2023, this MINI gains standard Apple CarPlay, and a new Untamed Edition is available with exclusive styling updates.

Design

The MINI Countryman looks and feels like an upscaled MINI Cooper and is successful in its approach. This subcompact SUV flaunts the brand’s signature retro styling in a range of bright colors and exterior graphics. The official name of the Hybrid Plug-In is the Cooper SE Countryman All4. This year, it’s available with the new Untamed Package, which adds a choice of different exterior colors with black trim, two-tone 18-inch wheels, and unique exterior graphics.

Powertrain

The MINI Countryman SE All4 combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a battery pack. A six-speed automatic transmission puts power to the front wheels and the electric motor drives the rear wheels, hence the All4 all-wheel drive (AWD) designation. This powertrain is good for 221 horsepower and 284 pound-feet of torque, and an all-electric range of 17 miles, which can be topped off in about two hours with a regular wall outlet. The EPA rates this version of the Countryman for 29 mpg combined in hybrid mode.

Interior

The MINI Countryman seats five passengers regardless of trim. The cabin has a sporty design with big gauges and vents. It includes front sport seats and a wide range of upholstery and trim colors and finishes. The available Untamed Edition package adds green leather upholstery. There are 17.4 cubic feet of capacity in the cargo area, which opens up to 47.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.

Technology

The 2023 MINI Cooper SE Countryman All4 comes standard with an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and this year, Apple CarPlay is also newly standard though Android Auto remains unavailable. MINI also includes a Harman Kardon premium audio system. Other options include navigation with real-time traffic information, wireless device charging, and ambient lighting.

Safety

Though the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) did not test the Hybrid Plug-In model separately, the MINI Countryman earned the highest rating of Good in the five crash tests conducted. The Countryman has not been tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The 2023 MINI Countryman Plug-In includes forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, rear parking sensors, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and a reversing camera. Available safety tech includes adaptive cruise control and a head-up display (HUD).

Pricing

As of this writing, MINI lists pricing for the Cooper SE Countryman All4 at $41,500, which carries over from the 2022 model. The Untamed Edition adds $1,500 to that price. The Cooper SE Countryman All4 has the same base MSRP as the Countryman in its John Cooper Works performance trim, though both of these prices are high for the class.