The Mini Cooper has long been beloved for its iconic retro styling, nimble handling, and fun-to-drive character. For 2024, Mini has taken this beloved nameplate and electrified it, creating the all-new Mini Cooper Electric 2024. This compact electric vehicle (EV) offers the same signature Mini style and engaging driving experience, now with the benefits of zero-emission electric power.
Highlights
- PROS: Attractive base price, generously equipped from the start, entertaining to drive.
- CONS: Fun-sapping traction-control system, tight rear quarters, driving range is far too short to be competitive.
- VERDICTThe Cooper Electric’s nimble handling is delightful, but its limited driving range is a shortcoming that is difficult to look past.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll take a deep dive into the 2024 Mini Cooper Electric – exploring its design, performance, range, pricing, and more to help you determine if this electrified Mini is the right EV for you.
Exterior Design
The 2024 Mini Cooper Electric retains the classic Mini styling that has made the brand so recognizable over the decades. It features the same rounded, boxy silhouette and large circular headlights that are hallmarks of the Mini Cooper. However, there are some key styling cues that distinguish the electric model.
The front grille features a closed-off design, as there is no need for large air intakes to cool an internal combustion engine. Instead, the grille is finished in a glossy black material that gives the car a sleek, futuristic appearance. The charging port is integrated into the front grille, adding to the clean, aerodynamic look.
At the rear, the Cooper Electric sports a new lower bumper design with a diffuser-like element, which helps to optimize airflow and improve the vehicle’s efficiency. The taillights also feature a unique light signature, with LED elements arranged in a circular pattern that pays homage to the classic Mini design.
Overall, the 2024 Mini Cooper EV manages to blend the brand’s iconic styling cues with modern, EV-specific design elements, resulting in a compact electric car that is both instantly recognizable and thoroughly modern.
Interior and Technology
Step inside the 2024 Mini Cooper Electric, and you’ll find an interior that is quintessentially Mini. The driver-focused cockpit features a large, central circular infotainment display that dominates the dashboard. This display is flanked by retro-inspired circular air vents, giving the cabin a playful, yet premium feel.
The materials and build quality are of a high standard, with soft-touch surfaces and tasteful use of contrasting textures and colors. Customers can customize the interior with a variety of upholstery and trim options to suit their personal style.
In terms of technology, the Mini Cooper Electric comes standard with a 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system is intuitive and responsive, providing easy access to navigation, media, and vehicle settings.
The digital instrument cluster is also standard, offering vital driving information in a clean, modern display. Additionally, the Cooper Electric is available with a heads-up display, which projects key data directly into the driver’s line of sight, reducing the need to take your eyes off the road.
From an ergonomics standpoint, the Mini Cooper Electric retains the brand’s trademark “go-kart” driving position, with a low seating position and a compact, thick-rimmed steering wheel that contribute to the car’s nimble, engaging handling characteristics.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
The 2024 Mini Cooper Electric is powered by a single electric motor that produces 181 horsepower and 199 lb-ft of instant torque. This powertrain is mated to a single-speed transmission, providing a smooth, linear delivery of power that is well-suited to the car’s compact dimensions and sporty intentions.
Mini claims the Cooper Electric can accelerate from 0-60 mph in around 6.9 seconds, which is brisk for a compact EV. The low center of gravity afforded by the battery pack, combined with the car’s lightweight construction and precise steering, result in the same go-kart-like handling that has made the Mini Cooper a driver’s favorite for decades.
Regenerative braking is standard, allowing the driver to slow the car down significantly by simply lifting off the accelerator pedal. This helps to maximize Cooper Electric’s range and provides a more engaging, one-pedal driving experience.
Range & Battery Life
In terms of range, the 2024 Mini Cooper Electric is estimated to have a maximum driving range of around 140 miles on a single charge, thanks to a 32.6 kWh battery pack. This should be more than sufficient for most daily commutes and urban driving scenarios, though longer road trips may require some careful planning.
The Cooper Electric is compatible with both Level 1 (household outlet) and Level 2 (240V) charging, with the latter allowing for a full charge in around 4 hours. DC fast charging is also available as an option, enabling an 80% charge in approximately 35 minutes.
Pricing of Mini Cooper Electric
The Mini Cooper Electric 2024 is priced from $31,895 to $36,700, depending on the trim and options.
Standard features include the 8.8-inch infotainment system, digital instrument cluster, dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry and push-button start, and 16-inch alloy wheels.
There are a variety of optional packages and standalone features available, including a Premium Package (with a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, and a Harman Kardon audio system), a Signature Package (adding leather upholstery, adaptive cruise control, and a head-up display), and various wheel and exterior color choices.
Even in its base configuration, the Mini Cooper Electric 2024 represents a compelling value proposition in the compact EV segment, offering a unique blend of style, performance, and technology at a relatively affordable price point.
Conclusion
The Mini Cooper Electric 2024 is a standout in the compact EV market, blending the brand’s iconic styling and engaging driving dynamics with the benefits of zero-emissions electric power. Its impressive performance, decent range, and comprehensive list of features make it a compelling choice for urban commuters and EV enthusiasts alike.
While the Cooper Electric may not offer the maximum range or spaciousness of some larger EVs, its unparalleled driving experience and charming, retro-inspired design are sure to win over many buyers in the market for a fun, efficient, and affordable electric car.
Full Specifications in SHORT
VEHICLE TYPE
front-motor, front-wheel-drive, 4-passenger, 2-door hatchbackPRICE AS TESTED
$37,750 (base price: $30,750)MOTOR TYPE
permanent-magnet synchronous AC, 181 hp, 199 lb-ft; 28.9-kWh lithium-ion battery packTRANSMISSION
single-speed direct-driveCHASSIS
Suspension (F/R): struts/multilink
Brakes (F/R): 11.1-in vented disc/11.0-in disc
Tires: Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3, 205/45R-17 88W ★DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 98.2 in
Length: 151.4 in
Width: 68.0 in
Height: 56.4 in
Passenger volume: 80 ft3
Cargo volume: 9 ft3
Curb weight: 3099 lbC/D TEST RESULTS
60 mph: 6.1 sec
Rolling start, 5–60 mph: 6.2 sec
Top gear, 30–50 mph: 2.3 sec
Top gear, 50–70 mph: 3.4 sec
1/4 mile: 14.8 sec @ 91 mph
Top speed (governor limited): 93 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 169 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.85 g
Standing-start accel times omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec.EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/city/highway: 108/115/100 MPGe
Range: 110 miles
