MINI Electric review

MINI hasn’t wavered from its core values in delivering the new Electric model. It remains fun to drive, with lively performance and a classy image, while the all-electric powertrain just adds further value to the iconic small car.

The limited range might put off some customers, but the real challenge to sales success for the MINI Electric will come in the form of close retro rival, the Honda e. Both are similarly priced and will travel roughly the same distance on a single charge. But, great design so often wins the day, and it’s a tough choice between the quiet cool of the MINI, or the funky, tech-laden Honda e.

About the MINI Electric

The original MINI was created in 1959 as a response to the global oil crisis. Designer, Alec Issigonis, was charged with producing a small car that created maximum space with minimal dimensions, had room for four people, was good to drive and delivered low fuel consumption. We think it’s safe to say he succeeded.

While ownership of the brand has certainly had its highs and lows, it was in 2001 that a new BMW-owned MINI generation was unveiled, leading to the success story we know today.

For around 20 years, MINI has been the default premium small car. Available in an increasing number of body styles, from regular three-door hatch, to the SUV-styled Countryman and open-top Convertible models, the iconic retro look has been repackaged to appeal to an increasing number of customers.

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Now, it’s the turn of the MINI Electric. However, the three-door hatch won’t have it all its own way. The market for small fully-electric cars is growing rapidly, as more people seek cleaner alternatives for their urban driving needs. 

Trailblazers such as the Renault Zoe and Nissan Leaf have grown in popularity and led to other manufacturers launching their own take on a small EV. Hyundai has produced the Kona Electric SUV, while Kia has its latest Niro EV, another compact SUV design. In the supermini space, Peugeot’s e-208 also shares a lot of PSA-group tech with the Vauxhall Corsa-e model and these, along with the Honda e and new electric Fiat 500, will be key rivals for the MINI Electric. 

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With the MINI Electric range starting from around £29,000, it undercuts the Honda e by around £8,000. There are three core trim levels to choose from: Level 1 is generously equipped with a choice of 16 or 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, sat-nav and cruise control. The mid-spec Level 2 trim adds 17-inch alloys of different design, heated seats and a rear view camera, while the Level 3 cars include a panoramic glass sunroof and an upgraded Harman Kardon audio system. MINI has also introduced the Resolute Edition which comes with Rebel Green solid paint, along with bronze-coloured exterior accents and other cosmetic touches.

MINI decided on an early facelift for the Electric model in 2021, bringing it into line with the wider hatchback range. There were changes to the grille and some exterior trim, along with the introduction of fresh paint options, new alloy wheel designs and a top-of-the-range 'Collection' version. Inside, there is a revised infotainment set-up, new buttons for the multi-function steering wheel and extra optional equipment to choose from, such as a heated steering wheel, active cruise control and sun protection glass.

There’s only one power option for the three-door Mini Electric - a 32.6kWh battery powers a single electric motor, producing a total of 181bhp and a 0-62mph time of 7.3 seconds.

As ever though, the question EV customers have to ask themselves is whether their car will fit seamlessly into their daily lives, and the slightly underwhelming range of up to 145 miles may put some off.