Engine Drives Front Wheels, Motor Drives Rear Wheels: ALL4

The "MINI Cooper S E Crossover ALL4" is the first plug-in hybrid for the MINI brand. The powertrain is, of course, the main focus. The engine is a 1.5-liter 3-cylinder gasoline turbo producing a maximum output of 136 ps and a maximum torque of 220 Nm. This is combined with an electric motor with a maximum output of 88 ps and a maximum torque of 165 Nm, for a total system output of 224 ps. Paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, the gasoline engine drives the front wheels, and the electric motor drives the rear wheels, making it an all-wheel-drive model.

The maximum range using only the electric motor is approximately 42.4 km. The 7.6 kWh lithium-ion battery that powers the electric motor is housed beneath the rear seats. It can be fully charged from empty in about 3 hours using a 200V power source. The maximum speed in EV mode is 125 km/h.

Yellow Accents Signal the PHEV

While the exterior and interior are largely unchanged from the new "MINI Crossover," the addition of "yellow" accents throughout signifies that this is a plug-in hybrid model.

First, there's a yellow emblem shaped like a plug on the charging port cover on the left front fender. Similar emblems are found on the right front fender and the rear tailgate. A yellow "S" badge adorns the front grille and tailgate, and the "S" badge on the side sill when the doors are opened is also yellow. Additionally, the "Start & Stop" toggle switch located below the center panel is colored yellow.

To its left is the e-drive toggle, which allows the driver to switch between electric modes according to their preference. For example, you can select whether to actively use the motor or to maintain the current charge level using this switch.

Tetsuo Ikuno of BMW MINI Division Product Marketing commented, "This yellow symbolizes that this is a car equipped with MINI's electrification technology." He added, "By incorporating yellow accents throughout, we express that this car is special, not only to the driver but also to passengers and those around them."

Four Benefits of the PHEV

Regarding the plug-in hybrid model, Mr. Ikuno stated, "This is not just a car for tech enthusiasts." He continued, "By driving a plug-in hybrid, we offer several benefits to our customers."

One is the stress-free acceleration that takes advantage of the electric motor's characteristics. From a standstill, the motor generates strong torque, providing "a sense of calm during driving, as you can quickly catch up even if you start slightly behind."

Next is the quietness when driving in electric mode, as the engine is off. "This makes conversations inside the car easier and allows you to enjoy your audio more," said Mr. Ikuno.

The third benefit is a composed ride. Due to the structure of a plug-in hybrid, the heavy battery is placed low in the car, resulting in a lower center of gravity and a more stable driving feel. Mr. Ikuno noted, "This is a new sensation not found in previous MINI models."

Finally, there is the high economic efficiency. Plug-in hybrid models are exempt from acquisition and weight taxes and are eligible for subsidies for clean energy vehicles, offering financial benefits.

Furthermore, to broaden the customer base, the public charging service "Charge Now" is offered free for 12 months. "This is in consideration of the many people who cannot install charging facilities in their apartment buildings," explained Mr. Ikuno. Charge Now allows users to access the charging network of Japan Charging Service, a service partner, enabling charging at shopping malls or parking lots with charging facilities when out and about.

The base model, the MINI Crossover, was introduced to Japan in March of this year. Mr. Ikuno stated, "We have successfully attracted many customers with a premium orientation, who were less common among previous MINI buyers. With this plug-in hybrid model, we aim to welcome even more new customers and expand the range of people who can enjoy MINI."

MINI Cooper S E Crossover ALL4
Body Dimensions | Length 4,315 x Width 1,820 x Height 1,595 mm
Wheelbase | 2,670 mm
Vehicle Weight | 1,770 kg
Engine | 1,498 cc Inline 3-cylinder DOHC
Engine Max Output | 100 kW (136 ps) / 4,400 rpm
Engine Max Torque | 220 Nm / 1,400-4,300 rpm
Motor Max Output | 65 kW (88 ps)
System Integrated Max Output | 165 kW (224 ps)
System Integrated Max Torque | 385 Nm
Drive Battery | 7.6 kWh Lithium-ion
Transmission | 6-speed AT
Drivetrain | 4WD
Minimum Turning Radius | 5.4 meters
Trunk Capacity | 405-1,275 liters
Max Speed in EV Mode | 125 km/h
Fuel Economy (EU Hybrid Measurement) | 17.3 km/ℓ
Power Consumption | 5.40 km/kWh
EV Driving Equivalent Range (JC08 Mode) | 42.4 km
Steering Position | Right
Price | 4.79 million yen