MINI has pulled the covers off the latest iteration of its Countryman C-segment crossover, now available to order, with a plug-in hybrid variant for the first time.

The latest model is the largest, and supposedly the most versatile, vehicle to be launched in the brand's 57-year history.

The plug-in hybrid model will be offered in the shape of the new Cooper S E Countryman All4, which combines a turbo petrol engine with an electric motor for a fuel consumption figure of 134.5mpg and a 0-62mph in 6.9 seconds.

The rest of the Countryman line-up will be powered by a selection of diesel and petrol units from MINI's latest generation of TwinPower Turbo engines. The most powerful offers 189bhp in the Cooper S Countryman and Cooper S ALL4 Countryman. With automatic gearboxes, these cars can achieve respective 0-62mph times of 7.4 and 7.2 seconds.

Aside from the plug-in hybrid, the most economical variant in the Countryman line-up is the Cooper D Countryman, which MINI claims can achieve 64.2mpg combined with CO2 emissions of 113g/km.

The Countryman will be available with a choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and either a manual or Steptronic automatic transmission.

MINI has also increased the standard equipment available with even entry-level cars now featuring satellite navigation, Bluetooth, cruise control and Emergency E-call as standard. An 8.8in touchscreen infotainment display can now also be specified for the first time on a MINI, as part of the Mini Navigation System XL.

The new Countryman can seat five and features a 450-litre boot with the rear seats in place, rising to 1,309 litres with the back seats folded flat. An electronic tailgate that incorporates touch-free opening and closing will make loading heavy items into the boot that much easier.

Now available to order, prices start at £22,465 with first customer deliveries due in February.