Next-Gen MINI Countryman to Enter Production Late in 2023, EV Model Included
A new generation of the MINI Countryman is just around the corner, and this one will offer both conventionally powered and fully electric models side by side. Production is set to begin in late 2023 at the BMW plant in Leipzig.
This will be the first time that a MINI model is produced entirely in Germany.
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"We are delighted to be able to hand over the first MINI "Made in Germany" to our customers in a CO2-neutral manner thanks to the plant's sustainable energy supply. In this way, the new all-electric MINI Countryman demonstrates what the brand stands for: electrified go-kart feeling and a strong focus on a minimal environmental footprint," said Stefanie Wurst, Head of MINI.
The redesigned and re-engineered Countryman has yet to reveal itself, but that should come shortly. While the small crossover remains camouflaged in the pictures released today, we can see that its silhouette is pretty much unchanged, though most likely bigger in every dimension.
The evolution will be primarily visible through details such as the front grille, headlights, taillights, bumpers and wheels.
Few technical details have been shared thus far. Gas models could use the 2023 BMW X1's turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 241 horsepower, but the available plug-in hybrid system may not be back with the addition of the fully electric Countryman. The latter will feature a particularly flat high-voltage battery (also produced at the BMW plant in Leipzig) for additional space and comfort in the cabin.
Sales of the new MINI Countryman models in North America are expected to start next year.
