Audi Q4 e-tron vs MINI Countryman SE

Buyers today who are shopping for an electric luxury crossover are spoilt for choice, for they have a plethora of offerings to check out. From European carmakers to Asian ones, there's bound to be a model that meets varied lifestyle needs.

Now, what draws someone to a particular model? Brand names play a role, but so do looks and design. And for a shootout, it's always fun to line up two contenders - the Audi Q4 e-tron and the MINI Countryman SE - that are at opposite ends of the style spectrum.

Which one offers the ideal blend of design, performance and practicality? Let's turn them on, take them for a spin and find out!

Both the Q4 and Countryman look futuristic, but the latter's design is more attention-grabbing

Differing interpretations

'Futuristic' is the aesthetic trend now and Audi reckons that the Q4's robot-like visage is what customers are seeking. The Q4 e-tron, with its angled daytime running lights, looks as if it's squinting at everyone. It looks even more intimidating with its 'grille' that resembles the metal shutters of a shopfront.

Subtly flared fenders and strong lines add muscularity to the Q4's body, while the full-width taillight is a look that's in line with the latest models being launched today. But compared to the Countryman, the Q4's design is conservative, for it wouldn't look out of place on an older Audi model.

The Q4's wheels merely look 'normal', whereas the Countryman's rims complement the rest of the car

The Countryman, on the other hand, draws glances with its unconventional looks. It might seem like an eclectic mix of elements, but compared to the Q4, it is fresher and more modern, yet unmistakably 'MINI'.

Rounded surfaces contrast against stronger geometric shapes, such as the octagonal grille, oblong wing mirrors, and trapezoid elements on the wheels. You'll even find blocky rectangular shapes on the trimmings below the front and rear bumpers and side skirts.

One look at both rear ends and it's clear that MINI is the one with a penchant for the unconventional

Interestingly, the only full-width element here is the 'Countryman' badge, which is spread across the entirety of the tailgate. As for the taillights, MINI has kept to having a pair of vertical ones, but the key difference is that the driver now has a choice of light patterns to display.

On looks alone, the Countryman is easily the more interesting contender. It stands out in a carpark instead of merely blending in, and if nothing else, the mix of elements gives people things to talk about.

The Q4's steering wheel features haptic buttons, while the Countryman continues to use physical buttons that drivers are more used to

A tale of two approaches

Interiors are Audi's strong suit and the Q4 e-tron is no exception. Apart from the build quality, the layout is also more intuitive than the Countryman's, especially since there are physical buttons for the climate controls.

The Q4 is also more driver-focussed, with the dashboard ergonomically angled towards the driver to make him or her feel more ensconced. The materials have a traditional luxury feel to them, so buttons emit a classy click when pressed, while surfaces like the armrests have a softer quality.

The Q4's cockpit oozes quality, but Countryman surprises drivers with its dynamic vibe and yes, massage function

In terms of infotainment, the Q4's menus are simpler and thus more user-friendly than the Countryman's, which does have a learning curve for new users (we'll get to this shortly). Basically, if you wanted to just get in and start driving, it's easier to do this in the Q4 e-tron.

MINI's approach to the Countryman, on the other hand, is more refreshing. Open the door and you're greeted by colour. Fabric (recycled polyester) covers the dashboard, and the door panels even have simulated 'overspray'. The youthful and playful vibe feels inviting.

First-timers will find getting to grips with the Q4's infotainment a cinch compared to the Countryman's system

Round and oblong shapes dot the cockpit as well, with the most obvious being the air vents, steering wheel, and 9.4-inch infotainment display. The latter is quite probably the most colourful item in the cabin, delivering punchy hues and snazzy graphics.

It's also from here that the driver can swap between the eight Experiences, which also varies what's shown on screen. And while the Countryman doesn't have physical climate controls, it does retain a few toggle switches, which makes the user experience more distinct.

Backseat passengers in the Q4 not only have more space, but their own climate zone, too

But when it comes to backseat space, it's the Q4 e-tron that's distinctly roomier, thanks to its longer wheelbase (2,764mm vs 2,692mm) and flat rear floor. And while the Countryman isn't exactly starved for legroom, its middle occupant must park their feet on either side of the rearward-protruding centre console.

The Q4 e-tron also has the edge in practicality for its boot capacity ranges from 520 litres to 1,490 litres (seats up/folded), while the Countryman's boot volume goes from 460 litres to 1,450 litres. Fortunately, the Countryman's load space is also square-shaped and there are split-folding seats for added flexibility.

The Q4 larger boot, which has a wider aperture as well, makes it the more viable load-hauler

A peppy face-off

The rear-wheel drive Q4 e-tron is no slouch in the field of performance. Its electric motor delivers a healthy 282bhp and 545Nm of torque, enabling this two-tonne crossover to finish the century sprint in 6.7 seconds. Fed by an 82kWh battery, the Q4 offers a driving range of 466km.

True to its 'traditional luxury' proposition, the Q4 not only moves silently, but softly as well, gliding over bumps you'd be more aware of in the Countryman. Refinement and comfort are its strong points, and these are burnished by the car's good manners.

Both the Q4 and Countryman feel very capable, but it's the latter that makes driving more entertaining

Power delivery, too, is always progressive and never sudden. You can pin the accelerator to the floor and the car won't be shockingly catapulted forwards. Even in Dynamic mode, the Q4 remains remarkably composed.

The Countryman SE, on the other hand, is more than eager to display its abilities. It has two electric motors putting out a combined 308bhp and 494Nm of torque, and with the extra traction from its ALL4 (all-wheel drive) system, gets from rest to 100km/h in 5.6 seconds.

Consider the Q4 if ride comfort is the priority, but ponder the Countryman if you want something more fun

Its zippier character is punctuated by a variety of soundtracks, each one specific to a particular drive setting or as MINI calls it, Experience. In 'Personal', the car sounds like a spaceship, whereas in 'Go-Kart', it emits rorty noises when you press on. This is one entertaining EV.

All this sounds whimsical on paper, but when you're behind the wheel, it makes sense. Electric cars are quiet by nature, so it's up to the carmaker to either double-down on this or take advantage of it to transform the experience into something fun and unexpected. By all accounts, it seems like MINI has chosen the latter option.

Rational vs emotional

The Q4 e-tron is clearly the sensible option here, for it is roomier, more user-friendly, and more practical than the Countryman. It also has the edge in refinement, and it doesn't feel slow despite the performance gap.

The Countryman SE is smaller, less spacious, and its functions have a learning curve. But its design has a lot more going for it. Call it strange or eclectic, but its exterior does draw glances, while its interior easily sparks conversations between driver and passengers. The there's the handling. It's not as cushy as the Q4, but the ride isn't something to complain about either.

Now, combine that with the Countryman's punchy and entertaining character, plus the fact that it costs less than the Q4 ($257,888 versus $264,999), and it's not hard to see why in this instance, you'll be tempted to indulge your heart rather than listen to your head.

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