2021 MINI Electric Hardtop Review

Trims

2021 MINI Electric Hardtop trim comparison

Electric Hardtop Cooper SE

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Starting MSRP

$30,750

MPGe

Engine

Drive Type

Seating Capacity

Automatic Emergency Braking

Basic Warranty

Horsepower

Blind Spot System

Surround View Camera

Adaptive Cruise Control

Remote Engine Start

Parking Sensors

115 city/100 hwy

Electric

FWD

4 passenger

4 yr / 50k mi

181 hp

Engine Type

Horsepower

Horsepower RPM

Torque

EPA EV Equivalent City Fuel Economy (MPGe)

EPA EV Equivalent Highway Fuel Economy (MPGe)

EPA EV Equivalent Combined Fuel Economy (MPGe)

EPA Electric Range

Regenerative Braking

Electric

181 hp

7000 rpm

199 lb-ft

115 MPGe

100 MPGe

108 MPGe

110 mile

Overview

Mini, best known for its iconic Cooper hatchback, delivers that design to a new generation with its electric power. Only available as a two-door, the SE offers the same small size and agility that drivers expect. Under the hood, an electrified powertrain produces 181 horsepower, achieving up to 110 miles of range without any gas. Mini still lets shoppers customize their SE with a range of paint colors and amenities.

Positives

Near-silent electric operation. Fun to drive. Impressive cabin materials. Many options for customization.

Considerations

Short driving range. Limited backseat legroom. High starting price. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto cost extra.

Verdict

Packed with character and electric power, the Mini Electric Hardtop is a masterful blend of the old and new. It counts on Mini's small size and agile handling to stand out from the average EV, and the British automaker outfits the interior in high-end materials and slick technology. The 110-mile driving range is less than rivals offer, but acceleration is brisk, and silent operation makes this Mini a relaxing and satisfying companion to have on the daily commute.

What's New for 2021

The Mini Electric Hardtop is unchanged for 2021.

Trims and Pricing

Mini typically offers customers many body styles and trims, but the electrified Mini comes in just one configuration, a two-door hardtop with front-wheel drive called the SE.

The SE is priced at around $30,000. It comes with forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and rear parking sensors for extra peace of mind on the road. Some competitors come with more standard driver assists. The SE has many premium amenities, like rain-sensing wipers, LED headlights, leatherette upholstery, heated front seats, remote engine start, automatic climate control, a heated leather steering wheel, adaptive cruise control, navigation, and Bluetooth.

Optional features include leather seats, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Mini allows shoppers to customize their car with racing stripes, Union Jack mirror caps, and other charming add-ons.

Engine and Performance

At the heart of the Mini is an all-electric powertrain making 181 hp and 199 lb-ft of torque. Thanks to near-instant torque, it provides quick acceleration, and Mini's regenerative braking system helps to recycle energy before it's lost. The onboard 32.64-kWh lithium battery gives owners up to 110 miles of emissions-free driving range. That may be enough for those with short commutes, but many rivals offer twice as much electric driving range. Still, the Mini is engaging to drive daily, with its trademark agility and a whisper-quiet ride.

Interior

Advanced technology drives the SE, but the cabin is classic Mini. The driver layout is designed with rounded surfaces that are warm and welcoming, and the touchscreen infotainment system is modern and easy to use. Drivers will find metallic toggle switches below the climate controls, helping to give the interior a race-inspired feel. There is excellent space for the driver and front passenger, but the tiny back seat is too small for adults. Likewise, the SE's 8.7-cubic-foot cargo area is only large enough for a couple of small bags, so drivers will need to pack light.