Model Tested: 2020 Mini Cooper SE Hardtop 2 Door Iconic Trim
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Engine:135 kW electric motor, 181 horsepower 199 lb-ft torque
Transmission: single speed automatic, front-wheel-drive
EPA Rating: 115-mpge city, 100-mpge highway, 108-mpge combined
Base Price: $29,900
As Tested: $37,750
Performance:
Very strong acceleration
Super smooth, linear power application
Regenerative braking
Car slows almost without using brakes
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Four wheel disc brakes
Range rated at 110 miles
AC and DC charging modes
Driving modes: sport, mid, green, and green plus
Sport mode is very fun/engaging
Batteries help keep center of gravity low
Lots of informative gauges relative to EV conditions
Comfort:
Front sport seats
Heated front seats (3 temperatures)
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Great front seat room and comfort
Back seat—no thank you unless fronts are moved
Very thick, contoured steering wheel
Stretch-out driver and front passenger legroom
Excellent headroom
Utility:
This is a vehicle for hauling two (sometime four) people, not cargo
Hatchback and folding rear seats maximize available space
Recharging cable stored under rear deck
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Panoramic moonroof brightens interior
WOW Factors:
Impressive acceleration
Rapid response—power comes on NOW!
Very agile, fun handling
Driving a Mini makes us smile
Attractive base price relative to other electric vehicles
Whines:
Slow charge times
Limited cargo capacity
Oddly styled wheels
Bottom Line:
Fun and frugal are two good words to describe the 2020 Mini Cooper SE. Too many all-electric vehicles appear to be mere transportation modules or appliances, but the Mini Cooper SE is (like its fossil fueled variants) a lot of fun to drive. The same dynamics that endow regular Mini Coopers with verve are at play with the electric
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version. The shorter range than most competitors can be a concern, but for most commuting/daily driving the Mini Cooper SE is a very fun way to go green.
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