Mini's first plug-in hybrid model to launch in June

The first Mini to feature a hybrid engine will be launched on June 24, making owning a Countryman more economical than ever before.

Mini has revealed that prices for the Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 will start at £31,585, offering good levels of economy at a competitive price. – Fuel consumption figures sit at 134.5mpg, according to the brand. This price does not include the government’s plug-in grant – which would bring the overall cost down to £27,085.

The Cooper S E Countryman All4 utlises a three-cylinder petrol engine, combined with an electric motor. Together, the pair produce 220bhp. The petrol unit is used to power the front wheels, while the electric motor sends drive to the rears. This should make the Countryman capable on difficult terrain, as well as enabling it to reach 60mph in a respectable 6.8 seconds.

The Countryman’s electric batteries can be charged via a domestic socket, or a public charging station. The batteries energy can be replenished in as little as two-and-a-quarter hours. The battery comes with a 60,000 mile or six-year warranty, too.

Setting off, only the electric motor is used. When 50mph is reached, the petrol engine is activated – though the driver can use electric-only power to reach up to 78mph in ‘Max eDrive’ mode. Mini believes that the car’s all-electric range is around 25 miles.