Petrol heads probably won’t like what I’m about to say but driving a new Electric Vehicle (EV) really can be way more fun than revving up an old-fashioned engine. I recently got the chance to put two of the latest MINI Cooper S cars to the test around the winding roads of the Cotswolds and while both offered some serious driving enjoyment it was the EV version that popped the biggest smile on my face.
Both the electric and petrol variants of this classic car offer a true MINI experience with handling that’s nimble and precise plus plenty of power to give you a buzz.
The striking new look adds some futuristic styling without losing any of its MINI personality and there’s an exuberant knitted interior that’s packed with tech. You get a giant circular OLED screen, full compatibility with Apple CarPlay and an ‘Experience’ button which changes the mood inside plus there are smart optional extras such as interior cameras, a head-up display and Driving Assistant Plus that offers Active Cruise Control to make motorways a breeze.
No matter which version you choose you’re guaranteed to have some fun but there’s something about the EV which makes this little car seem so much more alive.
Hit the accelerator and the instant hit of power makes the MINI Electric feel like a giant Go Kart. You can even add a fake whoosh of an engine sound which might sound pretty naff but I found it added to the excitement.
The petrol model is no slouch with it hitting 0-60 in around 6.7 seconds but the very slight lag when punching the throttle just makes it a little less exhilarating to drive.
Of course, the EV might be bucket loads of fun but there are some compromises. Firstly it’s way more expensive than the petrol model with owners needing to pay around £7,000 extra to own it.
You’ll be left with a £31,000 bill for the petrol MINI Cooper S 3-door Sport but that rises to £38,000 for the SE battery version.
Then there’s the range.
A full tank of unleaded in the petrol model will keep the wheels turning for well over 300 miles before a quick refill will be needed.
At its very best, you’ll only get around 250 miles (with super efficient driving) out of the MINI Electric plus you’ll be waiting a while for it to charge up. It’s only compatible with 95Kw refilling with a 10 percent to 80 percent boost taking around 30 minutes.
Both models also have a tiny boot so don’t expect to get four people and all of their luggage inside for a weekend away.
The MINI remains an icon of British motoring and the latest model brings things up to speed with more tech, a new look and a much improved battery-powered model.
If you don’t mind its range and have patience when needing to refill it, the MINI Cooper SE EV is some of the most fun you can have in a small car.
If I had the choice of driving one again it would be battery power all the way.
