MINI Risks Losing Ground to the Volvo EX30’s Range

Volvo and MINI electric vehicles have similar price points.

The Mini Countryman SE ALL4, commonly referred to as the Countryman Electric, along with the Volvo EX30, are among the latest electric vehicles to be released. Each model is competitively priced to challenge popular choices in the automotive sector, with the German-made Countryman Electric beginning at $45,200. The Swedish Volvo EX30 comes with a slightly higher price tag, starting at $46,195, yet this additional cost provides a significant improvement in driving range.

The Volvo EX30 provides over 250 miles of driving distance.

The 2025 Volvo EX30 has officially launched after experiencing several postponements that cast doubt on its availability. It comes in two configuration options featuring an all-wheel-drive system, offering an electric driving range of 253 miles. Although this doesn't top the competition, it provides significantly more distance compared to the Mini Countryman Electric. The German-made EV offers up to 212 miles, and can reach 80% battery capacity within just 30 minutes using a DC fast charging station. In contrast, the Volvo EX30 achieves 80% charge in approximately 27 minutes.

The Swedish electric SUV has a 69 kWh battery capacity, whereas the Mini Countryman Electric includes a 64.7 kWh battery. The Volvo EX30 offers two different trim levels, each featuring twin electric motors. A model with a single motor is anticipated to be introduced in the U.S. during the remainder of this year. In contrast, the Mini Countryman Electric only provides one trim option.

The Volvo EX30 includes numerous luxurious comforts, yet it doesn't lead its category in terms of driving distance. The Kia Niro EV provides similar range as the EX30, offering approximately 253 miles, whereas the Hyundai Kona Electric can go up to 261 miles. Interestingly, although these South Korean electric vehicles do not offer many equivalent features compared to the Mini Countryman Electric or Volvo EX30, they are positioned at a lower price point within this market segment.

Volvo's EX30 leads the competition in reaching 60 mph quickly

Although there is a notable variation in range between the two vehicles, the Volvo EX30 outperforms the Mini Countryman Electric in more than just this aspect. Both cars feature a twin-motor, all-wheel-drive system, yet the EX30 delivers superior performance. The electric motors in the EX30 provide 422 horsepower along with 400 lb-ft of torque. This impressive output allows the EX30 to reach 60 mph in only 3.4 seconds. In contrast, the Countryman Electric's pair of electric motors offer 308 horsepower and 364 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0–60 mph in 5.4 seconds.

Electric vehicles aren't typically known for their lightness, but there's a noticeable distinction between the EX30 and the Countryman Electric. The EX30 has a curb weight of 4,151 pounds, whereas Mini's only electric model comes in at 4,588 pounds.

The Countryman Electric is the larger option due to its 175-inch wheelbase. The EX30 has an overall length of 166.7 inches. Although they differ slightly in size, their internal passenger space presents a close contest. For instance, the EX30 provides 41.7 inches of front headroom compared to the Countryman Electric's 40.7 inches. However, the German electric vehicle delivers greater rear shoulder room with 54.8 inches as opposed to the EX30's 53 inches.

In terms of appearance, the Volvo EX30 and Mini Countryman Electric both showcase updated designs for their first year. The Swedish electric vehicle has a simpler look commonly seen in Nordic vehicles, whereas the Countryman Electric takes a more unusual approach. The EX30 comes equipped with 19-inch five-spoke black wheels that provide a dynamic foundation for the EV. Meanwhile, the Countryman Electric features 18-inch asteroid-style wheels that match the German car's playful character.

Final thoughts

Electric vehicles are still fairly new, and numerous drivers express some worries. Range anxiety, which refers to the fear that an electric vehicle might lose power while driving, has emerged as a significant issue for those transitioning to this type of car. Vehicles with longer ranges tend to appeal more to buyers, which helps the Volvo EX30 distinguish itself among limited options. Although the Mini Countryman Electric is indeed a distinctive choice aligned with the brand's identity, its shorter range may influence Mini fans who are considering switching to electric models.