If you’re a fan of the Mini cars but wish there was a hybrid or electric version, whether it’s because you are trying to get better mileage or maybe you just want to do your part for the environment, you’ll be pleased to learn that at the LA Auto Show, the carmaker took the wraps off the Mini Countryman S E, the company’s first hybrid vehicle.
On the outside the Countryman S E looks like your typical Mini car, but the differences are under the hood. The car is an AWD (all-wheel drive) in which the front wheels will be powered by the gas engine, while the rear wheels are powered by the car’s electric motor. The combination of the electric motor and gas engine means that it can output a combined 221 horsepower.
Mini will also be offering up a variety of different modes that drivers can choose from. Dubbed “eDrive modes”, some examples include how drivers can choose to go pure electric, electric with the gas engine kicking in at high speeds and hard acceleration, and a gas engine-only mode that will also help to keep the battery charged.
Other features include a 6.5-inch display for navigation and media, a panorama sunroof, keyless entry, laser headlights and fog lights. No word on pricing, but the Mini Countryman S E is expected to go on sale in the US come March 2017.
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