In a surprising move, BMW Group Malaysia has disclosed the U25 MINI Countryman S All4 at the ongoing Sime Darby Motor Automania event, adding to its lineup alongside the electric SE and the high-performance John Cooper Works (JCW) models.
Positioned between the JCW and a mild hybrid variant, the Countryman S is priced at a staggering RM348,888 on-the-road without insurance, which is RM105,000 more than the outgoing F60 Cooper S Countryman in JCW trim and only RM41,000 less than the full-fledged JCW model.
The base price includes a standard two-year, unlimited-mileage warranty, but opting for a four-year warranty and service package raises the total to RM359,288. Imported as a completely built unit (CBU) from Leipzig, Germany, the Countryman S might see a price reduction if local assembly (CKD) is introduced soon.
The Countryman S mirrors the SE in appearance but swaps its dual electric motors for a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 204 PS and 320 Nm of torque. A 48-volt electric motor adds an extra 20 PS and 55 Nm, bringing the combined output to 218 PS and 360 Nm. With an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, it accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 7.1 seconds, reaching a top speed of 228 km/h. Fuel efficiency stands at 6.8 liters per 100 km on the WLTP cycle.
Visually, the Countryman S features red “S” badges and shares its design with the SE, including Vibrant Silver accents and 20-inch Windmill Spoke alloy wheels. The interior boasts a 3D-knit fabric dashboard, JCW sport seats in Vescin Beading faux leather, and a 9.4-inch circular OLED touchscreen with MINI Operating System 9 and voice control via a dog avatar named Spike.
It also includes augmented reality navigation, a 360-degree camera system, and various driver aids like autonomous emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. Optional Driving Assistant Plus features, such as adaptive cruise control, are available through a subscription or a one-time fee.