The new MINI Electric is a refreshing blend of modern design and personalized features, making it one of the most exciting releases in its class. One of the standout features of this model is the ability to customize the tail lights and headlights. Whether you prefer a sleek, understated look or something more attention-grabbing, the MINI has you covered.
Beyond its visual appeal, this article will take you through every detail you need to know about the MINI Electric—from its exterior styling to the interior design, as well as the driving experience. It’s not all perfect, but with some careful consideration, it could be the right fit for your next car.
Exterior: Modern Simplicity with Character
MINI has always been known for its distinctive look, and the new MINI Electric doesn’t disappoint. Unlike previous versions that seemed a bit overdone with plastic and excess detailing, this model is cleaner and far more attractive. The minimalist design makes it stand out without feeling too flashy, which is a great balance between modern style and the MINI’s classic charm.
This version comes in three trims: Classic, Exclusive, and the top-of-the-line Sport. The Sport trim, in particular, has a more aggressive front bumper design and John Cooper Works badging, giving it a sporty edge. You also have the option to choose two-tone bodywork, like the striking red roof and door mirrors that offer a bold contrast to the car’s main color.
However, there’s a catch. If you’re leaning toward the electric model, there’s no option for a five-door version, unlike the petrol model, which offers more versatility. The petrol version is also based on a revised version of the old platform, while the electric MINI sits on an entirely new platform. Subtle differences include a blanked-out grille on the electric model for efficiency.
Interior: High-Tech and Eco-Friendly, but Some Drawbacks
Inside, the MINI Electric feels just as modern as the outside, with a large circular screen taking center stage. The display is crisp and colorful, making navigation and controls a breeze. However, there is a slight lag in response, which can be a bit frustrating if you’re in a hurry.
What’s interesting about this MINI is its eco-friendly approach. The materials used inside are recycled and hard-wearing, which is great for sustainability, but they might not feel the most comfortable against your skin if you’re wearing short sleeves—the texture can cause a bit of chafing. Despite this, the overall design is sleek, with flush door handles for the electric version, contributing to a smooth, minimalist look.
There’s plenty of storage space in the interior, from a decent-sized glove box to cup holders and USB-C ports. However, the lack of a vanity mirror light is a surprising omission, especially given the car’s premium price tag. The seating, though, is comfortable and multi-adjustable, giving drivers plenty of customization options for a perfect driving position.
Driving Experience: Fun and Responsive, but Firm
The MINI Electric is a lot of fun to drive, and its quick acceleration is one of the main attractions. It can hit 60 mph in just 6.7 seconds, which is impressive for a compact electric vehicle. If you enjoy a nimble, go-kart-like driving experience, the MINI delivers. However, the downside is the car’s firm suspension. It’s great for cornering and stability but can feel harsh over bumps, especially when driving around town at slower speeds.
Another thing to note is the one-pedal driving feature, which allows you to come to a complete stop simply by lifting off the accelerator. It’s perfect for city driving, where stop-and-go traffic can be a hassle.
The range of the MINI Electric varies based on the battery size. The smaller 37 kWh battery gives you about 177 miles, while the larger 49 kWh battery offers a bit more distance. However, real-world driving tests show you might only get around 80% of the claimed range, depending on how you drive.
Driving Experience: Fun and Responsive, but Firm
The MINI Electric is a lot of fun to drive, and its quick acceleration is one of the main attractions. It can hit 60 mph in just 6.7 seconds, which is impressive for a compact electric vehicle. If you enjoy a nimble, go-kart-like driving experience, the MINI delivers. However, the downside is the car’s firm suspension. It’s great for cornering and stability but can feel harsh over bumps, especially when driving around town at slower speeds.
Another thing to note is the one-pedal driving feature, which allows you to come to a complete stop simply by lifting off the accelerator. It’s perfect for city driving, where stop-and-go traffic can be a hassle.
The range of the MINI Electric varies based on the battery size. The smaller 37 kWh battery gives you about 177 miles, while the larger 49 kWh battery offers a bit more distance. However, real-world driving tests show you might only get around 80% of the claimed range, depending on how you drive.
Price: Worth the Premium?
One of the biggest sticking points with the MINI Electric is the price. The petrol version starts at £23,000, while the electric model with a smaller battery begins at £30,000. If you want the larger battery and additional features, you’re looking at a price tag of around £42,000. When compared to other electric vehicles like the Tesla Model 3, which starts at £38,000, the MINI seems a bit overpriced for its size and features.
Still, if you’re a fan of the MINI’s unique style and don’t mind paying for that extra bit of character, it could be worth the investment.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the MINI Electric?
So, should you consider the MINI Electric for your next car? It’s definitely a compelling option with its fun driving dynamics, stylish design, and eco-friendly features. But the price might make you think twice. If you’re looking for an electric vehicle with a bit of charm and personality, the MINI Electric is worth shortlisting. It’s not perfect, but it offers something different in a sea of increasingly similar electric cars.