New EV options are arriving on the market every year. The Nissan Leaf enjoys the claim to fame as America’s first mass-market, all-electric vehicle. Mini has actually been in the EV game for quite some time, as well, and its newest electric model is the Mini Countryman SE. While cross-shopping Nissan and Mini may be uncommon, these may be closer rivals than you think.
Let’s take a closer look at these electric vehicles and see which is right for you.
2025 Nissan Leaf Plus
Now in its second generation, the Nissan Leaf is the original mass-market EV, and it still offers EV shoppers an affordable way to go electric. What it lacks in driving thrills, it makes up for in value and efficiency. The Nissan Leaf starts at $29,280, but pricing for the longer-range Leaf Plus starts at $37,330.
Nissan Leaf Plus Highlights
More efficient: Although the Nissan Leaf Plus has the same max range as the Mini Countryman SE, the Nissan uses electrons more efficiently. According to EPA estimates, that translates to lower charging costs to the tune of about $100 annually.
More affordable: The Nissan Leaf has a considerably lower starting price than the Mini Countryman SE, even in the Leaf’s top SV Plus trim. It’s part of what makes the Nissan the value choice between these two.
Subtle aesthetics: The Mini Countryman is dripping with quirky personality inside and out, but maybe that’s not your style. If you like the idea of an EV with subtle styling that flies under the radar, you’ll appreciate the more conventional-looking Leaf.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Leaf Plus models for sale near you.
2025 Mini Countryman SE
The Mini Countryman is all-new for the 2025 model year. It’s bigger than its predecessor, has an interesting new look, a huge, round central display, and an all-electric variant called the Countryman SE. Pricing starts at $46,375.
Mini Countryman SE Highlights
Roomier interior: The Mini has a little more rear legroom and cargo room behind the back seats than the Nissan. The Leaf has an awkward bump in the cargo area when you fold down the back seats, but the Countryman SE’s rear seats fold flat, creating a roomy 56.2 cubic-foot cargo hold.
All-wheel drive (AWD): Mini’s ALL4 all-wheel drive system comes standard in the Mini Countryman SE, while all-wheel drive is unavailable on the Nissan Leaf Plus. This enhances the sporty driving character of the Mini while also giving it better all-weather traction.
Sporty performance: While value and efficiency are the calling cards of the Nissan Leaf, the Mini has a sportier reputation to live up to. Its electric powertrain makes a healthy 308 hp (313 with Boost Mode engaged) and 364 lb-ft of torque, making it much more fun to drive than the more sedate Leaf.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Countryman SE models for sale near you.
Similarities
The Nissan Leaf Plus and Mini Countryman SE coincidentally have the exact same maximum range rating of 212 miles on a full charge. Although one’s a hatchback and one’s an SUV, their passenger space is more similar than you might expect. Additionally, they have the same battery warranty coverage.
Pricing
New 2025 MINI Countryman Electric Prices
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Retail Price
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Fair Purchase Price (92620)
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The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2025 Nissan LEAF vehicles and New 2025 MINI Countryman Electric vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.
Specifications
| 2025 Nissan Leaf Plus | 2025 Mini Countryman SE | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | Single electric motor | Dual electric motors |
| Horsepower | 214 hp | 308 hp |
| Torque | 250 lb-ft | 364 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 1-speed automatic, FWD | 1-speed automatic, AWD |
| MPGe | 121 city/98 hwy/109 combined MPGe | 99 city/94 hwy/96 combined MPGe |
| Range | 212 miles | 212 miles |
| Also Available | 149-mile range | 204-mile range |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 3 Years/36,000 Miles | 4 Years/50,000 Miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 Years/60,000 Miles | 4 Years/50,000 Miles |
| Battery Warranty | 8 Years/100,000 Miles | 8 Years/100,000 Miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety | 5-Star | Not rated |
| Max Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 106.3 inches | 106 inches |
| Overall Length | 176.4 inches | 175 inches |
| Width | 70.5 inches | 72.6 inches |
| Height | 61.5 inches | 64.6 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 36.1 feet | 38.7 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 41.2 inches | 40.7 inches |
| Headroom, Rear | 37.3 inches | 37.4 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 42.1 inches | 40.4 inches |
| Legroom, Rear | 33.5 inches | 35.1 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 54.3 inches | 55.7 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Rear | 52.5 inches | 54.8 inches |
| Cargo Volume | 23.6/30 cubic feet | 24.8/56.2 cubic feet |
Conclusion
These EVs have a few things in common, but they’re suitable for different tastes and budgets. The Nissan Leaf Plus is more affordable and efficient. For better or worse, it’s an appliance car; it’s just for getting from A to B with super low charging costs. Meanwhile, the pricier Mini Countryman SE has that unique Mini character, and it’s as fun to drive as it is to look at. Additionally, all-wheel drive and more cargo space add to its practicality. The right EV for you depends on your budget and which one suits your style.
