Hey there, gearheads and MINI enthusiasts! Are you guys curious about the 2022 MINI Countryman Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV)? Well, you've come to the right place! In this in-depth review, we'll dive headfirst into everything that makes this compact SUV tick. We'll explore its performance, fuel efficiency, interior, tech features, and of course, whether it lives up to the MINI legacy. So, buckle up, because we're about to take a joyride through the world of the 2022 MINI Countryman PHEV!

Performance and Driving Experience

Let's kick things off with what matters most: the driving experience. The 2022 MINI Countryman PHEV combines a 1.5-liter three-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine with an electric motor, resulting in a combined output of 221 horsepower and 284 lb-ft of torque. That's enough oomph to get you from 0 to 60 mph in a respectable 6.8 seconds. Now, that might not sound mind-blowing, but trust me, it feels plenty peppy, especially when you consider the instant torque delivery from the electric motor. It's that immediate shove that makes city driving a breeze and adds a fun, responsive feel to your daily commute.

The beauty of the PHEV setup lies in its versatility. You can switch between different driving modes to suit your needs. There's the standard AUTO eDRIVE mode, which intelligently switches between the electric motor and the gasoline engine, maximizing efficiency. Then, there's the MAX eDRIVE mode, which prioritizes electric driving, allowing you to cruise silently and emissions-free for a certain distance. Finally, the SAVE BATTERY mode lets you conserve the battery's charge for later use. This is particularly handy if you know you'll be entering an urban area where electric driving is preferred. The Countryman PHEV also features regenerative braking, which helps to recharge the battery as you decelerate, further enhancing fuel efficiency. The handling is typical MINI: nimble, agile, and engaging. The steering is precise, and the suspension strikes a good balance between comfort and sportiness, making it enjoyable to drive on both winding roads and city streets. The all-wheel-drive system (ALL4) provides excellent grip and stability, ensuring confident handling in various weather conditions. Overall, the 2022 MINI Countryman PHEV delivers a well-rounded driving experience that's both fun and practical.

Engine and Electric Motor

As mentioned earlier, the 2022 MINI Countryman PHEV features a 1.5-liter three-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine. This engine, while small in size, is surprisingly potent, thanks to MINI's clever engineering. It's mated to an electric motor that's powered by a 7.6 kWh battery pack. The electric motor contributes significantly to the overall performance, providing instant torque and enhancing acceleration. The combined output of the engine and electric motor is 221 horsepower and 284 lb-ft of torque, which translates to brisk acceleration and a lively driving experience. The transition between the electric motor and the gasoline engine is seamless, so you likely won't even notice the switch. The electric motor provides a decent all-electric range, allowing you to complete your daily commutes without using a drop of gasoline. The engine is relatively fuel-efficient, especially when combined with the electric motor, resulting in impressive overall fuel economy figures. The PHEV powertrain is a clever combination of gasoline and electric power, offering the best of both worlds: performance and efficiency.

Driving Modes and Handling

The 2022 MINI Countryman PHEV provides a range of driving modes to customize your driving experience. The AUTO eDRIVE mode is the default setting, which intelligently uses the electric motor and the gasoline engine to optimize fuel efficiency. The MAX eDRIVE mode prioritizes electric driving, allowing you to travel emissions-free for a certain distance. The SAVE BATTERY mode lets you conserve the battery's charge for later use. The steering is precise and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and enjoy the car's agility. The suspension strikes a good balance between comfort and sportiness, making it suitable for both daily driving and spirited jaunts. The ALL4 all-wheel-drive system provides excellent grip and stability, enhancing handling in various weather conditions. The Countryman PHEV's driving dynamics reflect MINI's reputation for creating fun-to-drive cars, with a touch of practicality added for good measure.

Fuel Economy and Charging

Alright, let's talk about the numbers! Fuel efficiency is a key selling point for any PHEV, and the 2022 MINI Countryman PHEV delivers respectable figures. The EPA estimates that it can achieve up to 73 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) when running on electricity and gasoline combined. When running solely on electricity, the all-electric range is around 17 miles, which is sufficient for many daily commutes and errands. Keep in mind that the actual range may vary depending on driving conditions, speed, and other factors.

Charging Time and Options

Charging the 2022 MINI Countryman PHEV is a straightforward process. You can charge it at home using a standard 120-volt outlet, which will take approximately 8-10 hours to fully charge the battery. If you have access to a 240-volt Level 2 charger, the charging time is significantly reduced to around 2.5 hours. Public charging stations are becoming increasingly common, and the Countryman PHEV is compatible with most of them. The charging port is conveniently located on the front left fender. The charging process is simple: plug in the charging cable, and the car will start charging automatically. You can monitor the charging status via the infotainment system or the MINI Connected app. The Countryman PHEV's charging options provide flexibility and convenience, allowing you to charge the car at home, at work, or on the go. Charging times vary depending on the charger type, but the vehicle is designed to be easily charged.

Interior and Technology

Step inside the 2022 MINI Countryman PHEV, and you'll be greeted by a stylish and well-appointed cabin. The interior is unmistakably MINI, with its iconic circular infotainment display, toggle switches, and high-quality materials. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, providing ample space for both the driver and the front passenger. The rear seats offer decent legroom and headroom, making them suitable for adults on shorter trips. The cargo space is adequate, with enough room for groceries, luggage, or other essentials. The infotainment system is user-friendly and features a crisp display. It includes features like navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a host of other connectivity options. The Countryman PHEV also comes equipped with a variety of advanced driver-assistance systems, such as lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control, adding to its safety and convenience. The interior design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The materials used throughout the cabin feel premium and durable. The infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use, providing access to a wide range of features. The technology seamlessly integrates with the overall driving experience, enhancing the vehicle's practicality and enjoyment.

Infotainment and Features

The 2022 MINI Countryman PHEV's infotainment system is centered around a circular display that's both stylish and functional. It's controlled via a rotary dial and touchscreen, allowing you to easily access various features. The system includes navigation, which provides turn-by-turn directions, real-time traffic updates, and points of interest. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's system. You can access your favorite apps, make calls, and send text messages hands-free. The system also includes a range of other features, such as Bluetooth connectivity, a premium sound system, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Countryman PHEV is equipped with a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and parking sensors. These features enhance safety and convenience, providing peace of mind while driving. The infotainment system is user-friendly and intuitive, making it easy to navigate its various features. The integration of smartphone connectivity options further expands the system's capabilities, allowing you to stay connected on the go.

Comfort and Space

The interior of the 2022 MINI Countryman PHEV is designed to provide a comfortable and spacious experience. The front seats are well-bolstered, offering good support for both short and long journeys. The rear seats offer ample legroom and headroom for passengers, making them suitable for adults. The cargo space is sufficient for everyday use, with enough room for luggage, groceries, or other items. The interior is crafted from high-quality materials that provide a premium feel. The layout of the cabin is well-thought-out, providing easy access to all controls and features. The MINI Countryman PHEV delivers a comfortable and practical interior, making it a great option for families and individuals alike.

Design and Styling

Alright, let's talk about looks! The 2022 MINI Countryman PHEV retains the iconic MINI design, but with a touch of ruggedness thanks to its SUV body style. It features the signature MINI grille, round headlights, and a floating roof design. The PHEV model is distinguished by its charging port door and subtle badging. The overall design is both stylish and functional, appealing to those who want a vehicle that stands out from the crowd. MINI offers a variety of customization options, allowing you to personalize your Countryman PHEV with different colors, trims, and accessories. The design is a blend of classic MINI elements and modern SUV styling cues, creating a unique and eye-catching vehicle. The exterior design is both functional and visually appealing, with a focus on both style and practicality. The overall appearance is a testament to MINI's commitment to creating fun and iconic vehicles.

Exterior and Interior Design

The exterior of the 2022 MINI Countryman PHEV maintains the classic MINI design DNA, but adds a touch of ruggedness thanks to its SUV body style. The front fascia features the iconic MINI grille, round headlights, and a distinctive bumper design. The side profile showcases the Countryman's proportions, with its compact size and practical SUV shape. The rear features a stylish tailgate, LED taillights, and a sporty bumper design. The interior design of the Countryman PHEV is classic MINI, with a focus on quality materials, stylish design elements, and functionality. The dashboard features a large circular infotainment display surrounded by a stylish trim. The seats are supportive and comfortable, with a choice of upholstery options. The overall design creates a stylish and functional interior space. The exterior design offers a blend of classic MINI elements and modern SUV styling cues. The interior design reflects MINI's commitment to creating high-quality, stylish, and user-friendly vehicles.

Safety Features

Safety is always a top priority, and the 2022 MINI Countryman PHEV comes equipped with a range of safety features to protect you and your passengers. Standard features include airbags, anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a rearview camera. In addition, the Countryman PHEV offers available advanced driver-assistance systems such as lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. These systems work to enhance safety and help prevent accidents. The Countryman PHEV has received good safety ratings from various organizations, reflecting its commitment to protecting occupants. The safety features provide peace of mind and contribute to a safe and enjoyable driving experience. The combination of standard and available safety features makes the Countryman PHEV a safe and reliable vehicle.

Safety Ratings and Driver-Assistance Systems

The 2022 MINI Countryman PHEV has received positive safety ratings from reputable organizations, reflecting its commitment to protecting occupants. These ratings are based on crash tests and evaluations of the vehicle's safety features. The Countryman PHEV is equipped with a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems designed to enhance safety and prevent accidents. These systems include lane departure warning, which alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane, automatic emergency braking, which can automatically apply the brakes to avoid or mitigate a collision, and adaptive cruise control, which maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead. These features enhance the safety of the vehicle and contribute to a safer driving experience. The combination of strong safety ratings and advanced driver-assistance systems makes the Countryman PHEV a safe and reliable vehicle.

Pros and Cons

Let's break down the good and the not-so-good:

Pros:

• Fun to Drive: The MINI Countryman PHEV lives up to the brand's reputation for providing a fun and engaging driving experience.
• Fuel Efficiency: The PHEV powertrain offers excellent fuel economy, especially in city driving.
• Stylish Interior: The interior is well-designed, with high-quality materials and a user-friendly infotainment system.
• Practicality: The Countryman PHEV offers decent cargo space and is relatively easy to park and maneuver.
• Iconic Design: The MINI design is instantly recognizable and adds a touch of personality.

Cons:

• Limited Electric Range: The all-electric range of 17 miles may not be sufficient for all daily commutes.
• Price: The PHEV model is more expensive than the gasoline-powered Countryman.
• Rear Seat Space: Rear seat space can be a bit tight for taller passengers.

Conclusion

So, is the 2022 MINI Countryman PHEV worth it? If you're looking for a stylish, fun-to-drive, and fuel-efficient compact SUV, then absolutely! It offers a unique blend of MINI's iconic design, engaging driving dynamics, and the benefits of a plug-in hybrid powertrain. While the limited electric range and higher price tag might be drawbacks for some, the overall package is compelling. It's a great option for those who want to experience the thrill of a MINI while reducing their carbon footprint. Thanks for hanging out, guys! Hope this review helped you make a decision, and as always, drive safe out there!