MINI wants the second generation of the Countryman to be hybrid too

There is talk that 2017 will be one of the years in which hybrid and electric cars will play a more significant role than in other years. And among all the novelties that will feature in the brands’ various line-ups, we are going to focus on the MINI Countryman, whose second generation will include a hybrid version, forming part of a launch that will complement the range of this popular city car.

The hybrid model’s propulsion will come from a 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, sourced from BMW plants, which will send its power to the front wheels. The electric motor will send its traction to the rear wheels, complementing the thrust and favouring control and efficiency.

This same configuration is found in the BMW 225xe Plug-in Hybrid, so we can look at the figures this model offers. In other words, a total output of 221 CV and maximum torque of 385 Nm are expected. There is no official confirmation, only an estimate based on the model that uses an identical setup.

Continuing with this information, it is thought the electric motor could be powered by a 7.6 kWh lithium-ion battery. With this, it would have an all-electric range of around 46 kilometres, and it would be located under the rear seats so that its presence does not affect the cabin space. The power produced by the hybrid system will reach the wheels through a six-speed automatic gearbox.

According to comments made by the company’s vice president, Sebastian Mackensen, the experience of the new hybrid Countryman will not only be efficient but also fun to drive and very practical for city driving. To ensure that its performance and the experience of getting behind the wheel match the rest of the range, this version will get the same chassis and suspension system found across the rest of the range, so it will be a fully-fledged MINI with maximum driving enjoyment.

Via | Carscoops

Technical specifications of this car

CrossoverMINI Countryman21 versions · from 35,550 €