Mini’s 2026 Countryman SE ALL4 Electric: The Most Fun You Can Have With a Bad Idea | Review

Mini’s flagship electric Countryman SE ALL4 delivers a thrilling driving experience that outpaces some John Cooper Works (JCW) Minis, but its compact battery demands patience on long trips.

The dual-motor electric powertrain pairs a 64.6 kWh battery with two electric motors, producing 230 kW (308 HP) and 494 Nm (365 lb-ft) of torque. Mini claims a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint in 5.6 seconds, though our tester hit it in 5.3 seconds.

The single-speed transmission and 17.2 kWh/100 km efficiency figure highlight its electric character, but the 432 km (268-mile) WLTP range underscores the trade-offs of a smaller battery in a crossover segment dominated by larger packs.

Priced from AU$83,862 (including on-road costs) in Favoured trim, the SE ALL4 sits above the base C (AU$56,700), E (AU$75,526), and JCW ALL4 (AU$78,652) variants, all of which use internal combustion engines.

The Countryman’s polarizing design—once dismissed as Mini losing its way—has endured for 16 years and three generations, proving its appeal lies in more than just practicality.

The SE ALL4’s cabin is a masterclass in playful premium design, with a circular OLED infotainment display at its heart.

The screen’s vibrant, interactive software changes colors and animations with each drive mode, while tactile toggles below mimic the tactile feel of a traditional key switch.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto float in a dedicated box, and the Harmon Kardon 12-speaker audio system (standard on Favoured trim) enhances the sensory experience. Ambient lighting uses tiny projectors to cast intricate patterns, adding theater to every drive.

The front seats offer firm support, but rear legroom is tight for adults over 6 feet tall, and cargo space is a modest 460 liters.

Despite its compact dimensions (175 inches long, 72.5 inches wide, 64.3 inches tall), the Countryman SE ALL4 feels planted and responsive, with the dual-motor setup delivering instant torque and a playful demeanor. The trade-off? A smaller battery that prioritizes driving fun over long-distance comfort.

For those who value character over cold rationality, the SE ALL4 is a compelling choice—even if it’s not the most practical electric crossover on the market.