Mini Cooper Electric SE

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