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Kia Niro PHEV vs MINI Countryman PHEV: verdict and specifications

The MINI Countryman is a good car, but can't quite compete with the all-round package that is the Niro PHEV

Kia Niro vs MINI Countryman

Choosing between these two will only be difficult if you're concerned about badge cachet and driving dynamics. In these two areas, the MINI Countryman is a more convincing prospect despite its extra weight. It's also got a bit more space inside for passengers and luggage, but it's not a big enough advantage to gain traction against the Niro's all-round appeal.

1st: Kia Niro PHEV – 4.0 stars

For the money, the Kia Niro PHEV offers everything you need and nothing you don't: it's a sensible, efficient and easy-to-drive family SUV with all the standard equipment you could hope for when specified in '3' trim. The level of standard equipment puts the MINI to shame – you get much more for your £32,000 overall. It's not as fast, but its plug-in drivetrain does a better job of maximising efficiency.

2nd: MINI Countryman PHEV  – 3.5 stars

It's not a bad car by any means, but the Countryman PHEV feels a little too expensive and not quite clever enough to match the Niro in this test. It's undoubtedly the better car to drive and there's no arguing with the appeal of its image, but when you boil things down to what's most important, the Countryman is worse value overall. There's more space inside for people and luggage and its performance is punchier, but the Kia is the more sensible choice.

Specifications

CarKia Niro PHEV 1.6 GDi 3MINI Countryman PHEV Cooper S E ALL4 Classic
List price£31,945£32,980
Engine1.6-litre petrol + electric motor1.5-litre petrol + electric motor
TransmissionSix-speed auto, front-wheel driveSix-speed auto, four-wheel drive
Battery capacity8.9kWh7.6kWh
Power / torque139bhp / 265 Nm221bhp / 385Nm
0-60mph10.4 seconds6.8 seconds
Top speed107mph123mph
Charge time (socket / wallbox)N/a / 2hrs 15mins4hrs / 2hrs 30mins
Official MPG / CO2 / electric range201.8mpg / 31g/km / 30 miles166.2mpg / 40g/km / 32miles
Road tax / BiK rate £140 / 10%£140 / 12%
Length / width / height / wheelbase4,355 / 1,805 / 1,545 / 2,700mm4,297 / 1,822 / 1,559 / 2,670mm
Boot capacity (seats up/down)324 / 1,322 litres405 / 1,275 litres
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