Mini Cooper SE Convertible – Electric Car Review

Overview – Mini Cooper SE Convertible

The Mini brand has released two new electric cars, the 2023 Mini Cooper SE and the limited edition MINI Electric Convertible. While both vehicles use electric powertrains, they have notable differences in design and features.

Mini Cooper SE Convertible charging

Mini Cooper SE Convertible – Energy And Carbon Efficiency

The Mini Cooper, at 89 gCO2/mi (or 56 gCO2/km), is moderately efficient compared other EVs.

The Mini Cooper is not as good as the Dacia Spring Electric, Opel Astra Electric, Renault Megane. In fact the Mini Cooper matches the carbon emissions of the Skoda Enyaq iV 80, at 89 gCO2/mi. However, the Mini Cooper SE is better than many other electric vehicles with higher carbon emissions ranging from 92 to 142 gCO2/mi.

EV Engine, Power and Performance

The Mini Cooper SE is an all-electric car that offers lively and tossable driving dynamics. It has a single motor that drives the front wheels, producing 181 horsepower and 199 lb-ft of torque. The car can hit 0-60 mph from a standstill in 6 seconds, making it quicker than some gas-powered Mini models. However, the car cuts power under heavy loads and has poor range.

The MINI Electric Convertible features the same electric powertrain as the hard-top Mini, with the 181bhp electric motor powering the front wheels. While it may not be as sporty as the other models in the lineup, it still has a solid steering feel and a relatively uncommunicative, stiff passive damper set-up that enables a comfortable ride. The car can reach 62mph in 8.2 seconds, nearly a second slower than the standard hatchback. The estimated WLTP range is limited to just 124 miles, making it best suited for town driving or short journeys.

Interior Comfort and Cargo Dimensions:

The Mini Cooper SE and the MINI Electric Convertible provide comfortable and unique interior designs. The former has a clever battery packaging, allowing it to have the same cargo volume as the gas-powered Mini Hardtop. The Cooper SE has a standard 8.8-inch infotainment display while the latter has outdated interior tech.

Infotainment, Tech and Connectivity

The Cooper SE comes with an 8.8-inch infotainment display with a standard touchscreen interface. However, the display feels small and partly obstructed by the giant ring that Mini still slaps in the center of the dash. It also has Apple CarPlay but no Android Auto support, which could be a disadvantage for those who rely on Android technology.

The MINI Electric Convertible has BMW-derived tech with basic build quality that’s deemed good but outdated. Its interior tech and overall design are at the end of their life.

Safety Features – Mini Cooper SE Convertible

The Mini Cooper SE and the MINI Electric Convertible have standard active safety equipment, including front collision warnings, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warnings. The Cooper SE has a Driver Assistance package that offers adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, and a parallel parking assistant. Both cars have scored well in every crashworthiness category from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Warranty Information:

Mini offers a four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty and eight years/100,000 miles of coverage for the electric powertrain and battery. Warranty and servicing packages vary based on where the vehicle is purchased.

Mini Cooper SE Convertible on the road

Final Thoughts – Mini Cooper SE Convertible

The Mini Cooper SE and the MINI Electric Convertible are unique electric car offerings that have their respective advantages and disadvantages. The Cooper SE has a cute and distinctive design with lively and sporty driving dynamics, but lacks a dedicated EV platform and has poor range, cutting power under heavy loads.

The MINI Electric Convertible is limited to just 150 units in the UK, making it a compelling offering for those looking for a niche electric convertible. However, it has an outdated interior, high price tag, and limited range. Overall, neither of these vehicles may be the best option for long-distance driving or those seeking a more advanced and reliable EV.

Basic Information
MakeMini
ModelCooper SE Convertible
Car BodyCabriolet
Number Of Seats4
Estimated Energy Efficiency
Efficiency (mi/kWh)4.3 mi/kWh
Efficiency (km/kWh)7.0 km/kWh
Engine
Horsepower181 HP (184 PS)
Acceleration 0-100 km/h8 seconds
Towing Weight0 lbs (0 kg)
Charging
Charge PortType 2
Charge Time3h15m
Fast Charge Power Max49 kW DC
Fast Charge Time29 min
Safety
Adult Safety Ratingnone
Child Safety Ratingnone
Purchasing
Available CountriesUnited Kingdom,The Netherlands,Germany
Date Of AvailabilityApril 2023
Estimated Price£52,500
Estimated Carbon Efficiency (Grid/Country Dependent)
USA89 gCO2/mi (56 gCO2/km)
Iceland7 gCO2/mi (5 gCO2/km)
Canada20 gCO2/mi (20 gCO2/km)
France24 gCO2/mi (15 gCO2/km)
Efficient Gas Car272 g CO2/mi (170 g CO2/km)
Battery
Size (kWh)28.9 kWh
Voltage (V)400 V
Range
WLTP Range (km)201
Dimensions
Car Length152 inches (3850 mm)
Car Width68 inches (1727 mm)
Car Height56 inches (1432 mm)
Cargo (Trunk or Boot) Volume6 cu ft (160 L)
Frunk Volume0 cu ft (0 L)
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