Couple Kym Hodgkinson and Luke Rowley take the new and innovative MINI Countryman E, available from Adelaide MINI Garage, for a spin over a spring weekend, experiencing firsthand what this all electric model offers.

Photography Gretl Watson-Blazewicz

Imagine this: open road driving through one of SA’s in-reach regions in a car that excels at modern comforts and its commitment to the environment.

According to couple Kym Hodgkinson and Luke Rowley, that’s exactly what you experience when sitting behind the wheel of the new all-electric MINI Countryman E. There’s a lot to love about this green-focused vehicle that refuses to compromise on style, speed and fun.

“It’s super smooth on the road, whisper quiet and surprisingly spacious,” says Kym, reflecting on her time in the hot hatch.

With its five-door design, the fresh iteration of the MINI Countryman E pushes the boundaries on what you should expect from the heritage brand – not only in size (it’s the largest MINI to date!) but also in its commitment to sustainability. The 2024 model reduces its environmental impact, delivering 150 kilowatts of power in a single e-motor that covers up to 462 kilometres of travel. And despite being the first electric version of this MINI model, the car retains its go-kart-like drive, with a top speed of 170 kilometres per hour. It’s also ready to go within 29 minutes, making this clean alternative convenient.

This green edge extends throughout the car interior. The surfaces of the steering wheel, floor, dashboard and headliner are made from recycled polyester sourced from PET bottles and material offcuts; the chrome interior and exterior elements and cast light-alloy wheels feature 70 percent secondary aluminium. These decisions see this electric car (and its Countryman siblings) reduce its CO2 emissions by up to 85 percent.

However, real ingenuity lies in its Vescin upholstering – a vegan-friendly leather alternative made of 100 percent recycled materials. Kym says you don’t even notice the difference: “The seats feel like a comfy leather hug.”

The MINI Countryman E marries its forward-thinking, eco-friendly mindset with cutting-edge technology. Kym says the large, circular infotainment system – fit with a parking assistant and MINI Navigation AR – sets the model ‘apart from any other car on the market’ while the creature comforts (think steering- wheel heating, wireless charging, active driver seat and electrical memory) elevate the on-road experience. There are even unparalleled safety features perfect for growing families, such as rear collision prevention, autonomous emergency braking and blind spot/lane change warning.

Size-wise, the third generation of the MINI Countryman has been noticeably upgraded, expanding its length by 130mm and height by 60mm. Combine that with a spacious sunroof (that’s double-glazed too) and ample boot space, and you have the ideal vehicle for getaways. “The boot space is as roomy as they come!” says Kym. “It’d have the whole family covered.”

As Kym and Luke wrap their weekend drive, it’s evident that the new MINI Countryman E is more than a car – it’s a lifestyle choice that embraces adventure and prioritises the future. “The whole experience is incredibly smooth,” reflects Luke. “It delivers that classic MINI feel combined with modern comforts.”

Adelaide MINI Garage
31–40 West Terrace, Adelaide
adelaideminigarage.com.au
@adelaideminigarage