If you didn’t know, the MINI brand is part of the BMW Group. It’s true. And that can only mean one thing: dealing with MINI PR is every bit as much of a pain in the arse as dealing with BMW PR. It’s just how it is. The lack of self-awareness is astonishing, as if they’re doing us a favour.

But, in the interests of fairness — and journalistic integrity, the latter of which is made-up garbage because it doesn’t actually exist in editorial newsrooms — we will at least feign journalistic integrity and neutrality.

The Midnight Hour

MINI is introducing the new Countryman SE Midnight Edition, a limited new version of its electric Countryman that combines a distinctive exterior treatment with a higher level of standard equipment.

Available exclusively in SE ALL4 form, the Midnight Edition can be specified in Indigo Sunset Blue — a new colour for the Countryman — or Midnight Black, with both paired with a Midnight Black roof. It also gets 18-inch Asteroid Spoke alloy wheels, available in Jet Black or Vibrant Silver, plus sun protection glass.

Based on Classic trim, the Midnight Edition adds Vescin Black/Blue Cloth upholstery, a dark headliner, heated front seats, wireless charging, a head-up display and a luggage net as standard.

The specification also includes four years of the MINI Connected Package, providing services such as real-time traffic information, advanced navigation, video streaming and connected apps.

Driving Assistant Plus is also standard, adding features including active cruise control, lane centring and Stop & Go functionality.

Power comes from MINI’s revised 64.6kWh battery, giving the Countryman SE an electric range of up to 285 miles and a 0-62mph time of 5.6 seconds. DC fast charging is supported at up to 130kW.

Priced at £41,645 OTR, the MINI Countryman SE Midnight Edition is available to order now from MINI retailers, with first deliveries expected in early 2027. It also remains eligible for the government’s £3,750 Electric Car Grant.