
Mini
Cooper Electric SE
Models
Review summary powered by Claude
The third-generation Mini Cooper Electric SE arrives as a purpose-built EV rather than a converted combustion platform, giving it a lower center of gravity and a more polished feel than its predecessor. It targets urban and suburban buyers who want a premium small car with genuine go-kart handling character. Reviewers at InsideEVs and Car and Driver highlight the Cooper SE trim's 215-mile EPA range as a meaningful improvement over the outgoing model, while nearly everyone notes that the interior's circular OLED display is a divisive but attention-grabbing design centerpiece.
Strengths
- Cooper SE achieves 0–60 mph in 6.5 seconds, competitive for a sub-$36,000 front-wheel-drive EV in its class
- Steering feel and body control draw consistent praise for replicating the classic Mini go-kart handling character in an electric package
- 215-mile EPA range on the SE trim represents a roughly 35% improvement over the previous-generation Mini Electric
- Cabin quality and material fit are rated above segment average by Edmunds reviewers, with soft-touch surfaces and tight panel gaps
- Starting price of $30,900 for the Cooper E positions it as one of the more accessible premium small EVs, below rivals like the BMW i3's final pricing
Considerations
- Single-motor FWD only across both trims means no all-wheel-drive option, a disadvantage in snow-prone markets
- Rear seat room is genuinely tight for adults — rear legroom measures under 28 inches, limiting real-world four-passenger usability
- DC fast charging is capped at 95 kW, slower than class competitors such as the Chevrolet Equinox EV, which can accept up to 150 kW
- Cargo capacity of 8.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats is among the smallest in the segment, restricting practicality for longer trips