Mini Cooper Review: A Fun and Entertaining Electric Vehicle
The all-new Mini Cooper electric vehicle proves that electric cars can be thrilling to drive. It retains the iconic Mini look but with a more mature design, featuring a clean exterior and a minimalist interior that includes recycled fabrics and ambient lighting. The circular dashboard display is sharp and responsive, complemented by physical controls on the steering wheel for ease of use.
While some may find the Mini Cooper’s ride a bit firm, driving enthusiasts will appreciate its agility on bends and decent acceleration. The car comes with various sound effects that can be turned off, adding character to the driving experience. However, the slow charging time, especially for the base Cooper E model at 75 kW, is a drawback. Additionally, the cost can quickly escalate when adding optional features typical of Mini vehicles.
During testing in Oxfordshire, both the Mini Cooper E and Cooper SE showcased their capabilities across different road conditions, from city traffic to dual-carriageways. The Cooper E starts at £30,000, while the sportier SE begins at £34,500. The Cooper E features a 36.6 kWh battery with a range of 182 miles, while the SE boasts a larger 49.2 kWh battery, providing a range of 249 miles and faster charging at 95 kW.
The interior of the Mini Cooper offers more space than before, with adult-friendly rear seats and a refreshed cabin design dominated by a circular 9.5-inch OLED screen. The use of recycled fabrics gives the interior a retro yet modern feel, while physical controls and a range of storage options enhance practicality. However, the boot space is limited to 200 litres, without additional storage under the bonnet.
In terms of technology and infotainment, the Mini Cooper showcases a new circular display that integrates various functions but lacks a driver display, offering a head-up display as an option. The system may have a learning curve but provides a visually appealing interface. The Cooper also offers a premium sound system and augmented reality features in higher-level packages.
The Mini Cooper E and SE are priced from £30,000 to £34,500, with additional costs for upgrades and optional features. Running costs are lower than traditional vehicles, thanks to its electric nature, but beware of high-speed charging costs. Both models take around 30 minutes to charge from 10 to 80 percent, with a max charging rate of 95 kW for the SE.
Overall, the Mini Cooper electric models offer a compelling driving experience, a premium interior, and a fun design. While slower charging times and potential high costs for additional features may deter some buyers, the Mini Cooper remains a stylish and enjoyable EV option in the market.