Going from just one electric option, MINI is opening the floodgates even within just one of its new model ranges, and the 2024 MINI Countryman will be available in two key variants – single-motor/2WD and twin-motor/AWD – with three model grades offered for each.At the most affordable point, the 150kW single e-motor Countryman E opens the bidding with the Core priced from $64,990 plus on-road costs. The next rung up is the mid-range Classic from $67,990, while the most premium Favoured starts at $70,990 plus ORCs.In addition to the entry version, the Countryman SE has a second electric motor introducing MINI’s All4 all-wheel drive system and a power boost to 230kW.Later in the year, MINI will introduce a flagship JCW Sport costing $77,990 plus ORCs, but from launch in the third quarter of 2024 the SE will be on offer as the Classic (from $72,990) and Favoured (from $75,990).Luxury car tax (LCT) for fuel efficient vehicles has a threshold of $89,332 for the 2023-2024 financial year, which means the entire range of Countryman EVs avoids that unpleasant extra cost hitting the bottom line.For our first meeting with the new Countryman in Portugal, we were given access to the most premium option – a Countryman SE specced in Favoured trim.