Design and Exterior
The 2024 MINI Cooper SE 3 Door stays true to its iconic design, maintaining a similar look to its predecessors. This is because the car is built on the same platform as its non-electric counterparts. The electric version of the MINI Cooper retains the classic charm and compact size that has made it a favorite among city commuters since its debut in 1959.
Electric Powertrain
MINI’s decision to go electric with the Cooper SE marks a new chapter for the brand. This is their first venture into a fully electric vehicle, and it is an electrifying one indeed. However, there are concerns whether the introduction of the electric powertrain will compromise the beloved go-kart-like experience that the MINI Cooper is known for.
The Go-Kart Experience
MINI enthusiasts have always been drawn to the go-kart-like handling and nimbleness of the Cooper. The question now is, will the extra weight of the electric powertrain dampen this experience? Will the new electrifying powertrain ruin the essence of the MINI Cooper, or will it embrace the Brave New World of electric mobility while keeping the lights on?
Facts and Figures
As this is a quick drive review, we haven’t had the opportunity to live with the 2024 MINI Cooper SE 3 Door for an extended period. However, we can still provide you with some high-level facts. The electric MINI retains just enough space for a comfortable city commute, making it a practical choice. Furthermore, its electric powertrain ensures that it doesn’t break the bank at the pump, providing savings in the long run.
Thoughts and Feelings
While we can’t provide an in-depth analysis of how the electric MINI Cooper feels on the road, we can speculate on its potential. The electrifying powertrain may bring new excitement and responsiveness to the driving experience. It could enhance the go-kart-like feel that has made the MINI Cooper a beloved choice for enthusiasts worldwide.
Your Final Thoughts
As neutral reviewers, we encourage you, our fellow subscribers, to share your thoughts on the 2024 MINI Cooper SE 3 Door. If you have had the chance to experience this electric go-kart for the road, please leave a short review in the comments below. Together, we can explore the potential of MINI’s first fully electric vehicle and contribute to the ongoing conversation about the future of electric mobility. Let’s take a closer look at what this electrifying MINI Cooper has to offer.
The Design
The 2024 MINI Cooper SE 3 Door still retains its classic, iconic design. Although the grill and rear bumper have a few changes, it remains recognizable as a MINI. The signature hood scoop adds to its appeal, giving it a sporty look.
The Powertrain
Gone is the turbo 4 cylinder engine that used to power the MINI Cooper. Instead, it now features a front electric engine that delivers 181 horsepower and 199 pound-feet of torque. The power is transmitted through a direct drive transmission and is powered by a 32 kWh battery pack. This electric powertrain allows the MINI Cooper SE to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 6.1 seconds, making it slightly faster than its gas-powered counterpart.
Performance and Handling
While the MINI Cooper SE offers impressive acceleration, the additional weight of the electric powertrain makes it slightly less nimble around corners. Its lower center of gravity helps, but it only achieves about 85 on the skid pad, compared to 0.91 for the gas-powered model. Nevertheless, the MINI Cooper SE still offers excellent handling and maneuverability, making it a joy to drive.
Interior and Space
Despite its small overall size, MINI has done a great job in maximizing the interior space of the Cooper SE. With a wheelbase of approximately 98 inches, it may be compact, but it offers sufficient room for both the driver and passengers. The minimalist yet stylish interior design adds to the overall charm of the car.
Practicality
Moving to the back of the MINI Cooper SE, you’ll find a fair amount of practicality. While it may not have the largest cargo space in its class, it still provides enough room for your everyday needs. The rear seats can also be folded down to further extend the cargo area, making it versatile for various situations.
Overall, the 2024 MINI Cooper SE 3 Door is a charming electric vehicle that combines the iconic design of a MINI with an efficient and powerful electric powertrain. While it may have some differences in performance compared to its gas-powered counterpart, it offers a fun and exhilarating driving experience. If you’re looking for an electric go-kart for the road, the MINI Cooper SE should definitely be on your list to consider.
The Practicality Factor
If it is just you, and especially when you put those seats down, you can see that the 2024 MINI Cooper SE 3 Door has a decent amount of cargo space. With the seats up, you’re looking at about nine cubic feet. However, with the seats down, that number triples to about 34 cubic feet. The seats are split and can go level, which is a nice touch. There are also little doodads to keep your belongings held down, preventing them from flying around during your drives.
Back Seat Space
Moving to the back seats, the practicality decreases a bit. The seats do fold forward, making it easier to get in and out. As a person who is 5’7″ and 150 lbs, I can fit in the back seats, but it’s definitely more of a legroom situation. However, the most important thing is that you can fit your moose baby if that is important to you.
The Magic of the Mini
Now let’s move up front, where the real magic happens in the 2024 MINI Cooper SE 3 Door. Even though this is the base model, it still has a lot to offer. The interior features beautiful materials and switch gear, giving it a high-quality feel. It is equipped with navigation, which is a nice addition. It also offers three different levels of modes: two levels of Eco mode and a sport mode. The sport mode provides a bit more zip, adding some excitement to your drives. Additionally, there are two screens and a fun ring around them, adding to the overall aesthetic.
Upgrade to the Ultimate Package
For an extra $3,000 on top of the base price of $48,000 Canadian (plus fees and taxes), most people will want to opt for the Ultimate Package. This package offers a little bit more tech, including a heads-up display and wireless charging. Advanced parking assistant is also included, making those tight parking spots a breeze. Furthermore, the package enhances the overall electrified look of the Mini, with a lot more green accents.
The Driving Experience
A little bit more electrified looking Wheels as you can things see, and things like that, but most important with a vehicle like this is how does it drive so lets? Get it out on the road here we go. Okay, we’re finally on the road here: uh well, gravel, driveway anyway, but we’ll be on the road in a minute.
The point is, as we’re going there um, it really does drive. You know pretty good and that’s what I want to say, because you know if you’re coming out of a gas mini um, I haven’t driven a gas mini, but I have to imagine that it wouldn’t be much different than this because I have had some experience now. In some electric cars and some gasoline cars that have moved over to electric cars – and this one definitely feels about as normal as normal can be. It does feel a little bit heavy for a light car, but it definitely doesn’t feel heavy. Like a lot of the things that I drive nowadays, that’s for sure.
Responsive Steering
The steering seems really responsive, it is very smooth, like the acceleration, is really nice and again we’ll test it to see how Zippy it is, but one of the things with electric cars that you have to keep in mind, sometimes on something like this.
Tight Handling
It definitely has a lot of good reflexes here, you can see really really tight, steering well test out some of these things in a minute, but um yeah I mean the steering seems really responsive, it is very smooth, like the acceleration, is really really nice and again well test it to see how zippy it is, but one of the things with electric cars that you have to keep in mind, sometimes on something like this.
The Zippy Acceleration
Oh man, the acceleration is something else. It really feels like you’re driving a go-kart. The instant torque from the electric motor propels you forward with a surprising amount of force. It’s like being on a rollercoaster, but on the road. You can feel the rush of adrenaline as you push down on the accelerator and the MINI Cooper SE 3 Door swiftly responds, giving you a thrill unlike any other.
Smooth and Quiet Ride
One of the key advantages of electric cars is their smooth and quiet ride, and the 2024 MINI Cooper SE 3 Door is no exception. As you glide along the road, there’s none of the noise or vibrations that you typically associate with a gasoline-powered car. It’s serene and peaceful inside the cabin, allowing you to fully enjoy the driving experience without any distractions.
The Range and Charging
Now, let’s talk about range and charging. The 2024 MINI Cooper SE 3 Door comes with a respectable electric range, allowing you to travel without worrying too much about running out of battery. It’s perfect for city commutes and shorter trips. And when it’s time to recharge, you have the convenience of home charging with a standard wall outlet or the option to use public charging stations.
The Power of Electric Motors
The 2024 MINI Cooper SE 3 Door definitely surprised me with its power. With 181 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque in a 3000lb vehicle, it may not sound like much, but the way electric motors deliver that power is truly remarkable. Unlike traditional combustion engines, electric motors provide instant power with no lag or loss in the driveline. This means that the MINI Cooper SE feels much faster than its specs suggest. It’s like driving an electric go-kart on the road, with power at your disposal whenever you need it.
No Gears, No Problem
One of the advantages of an electric vehicle like the MINI Cooper SE is that it doesn’t have gears. This means that all the power is available to you instantly, regardless of your speed. Whether you’re cruising slowly in town or need to overtake someone on the highway, the MINI Cooper SE delivers that instant power. It’s a liberating feeling to know that you can accelerate whenever you want, without having to shift gears or wait for the engine to respond.
Regenerative Brakes: A Unique Feature
The braking system of the MINI Cooper SE is quite interesting. It comes equipped with regenerative brakes, which can be adjusted using a button located within easy reach. If you’re not familiar with regenerative brakes, let me explain. When you release the gas pedal, the car starts to slow down, thanks to the regenerative braking system. It feels like the car is using the brakes, without you actually having to press the brake pedal.
The Mimic of Gasoline Cars
The MINI Cooper SE offers two different settings for regenerative braking: low and high. The higher setting provides a more aggressive regenerative braking experience. It’s almost like downshifting in a manual transmission car and lifting off the gas pedal. The car intelligently engages the brakes when you release the gas pedal, giving you a similar feel to driving a gasoline-powered car. As someone who is used to a manual transmission, I found this feature to be quite familiar and easy to adapt to.
In conclusion, the 2024 MINI Cooper SE 3 Door is a true joy to drive. Its electric motor delivers instant power, making it feel like an electric go-kart on the road. With no gears to worry about, you have access to all that power whenever you need it. The regenerative braking system adds an interesting twist to the driving experience, mimicking the feel of a traditional gasoline car. If you’re looking for a fun and eco-friendly ride, the MINI Cooper SE is definitely worth a test drive.
Exterior Design
The 2024 MINI Cooper SE 3 Door may be small, but it packs a punch in terms of design. Its compact size reminds me of a go-kart, with its boxy shape and sleek lines. Walking up to it, I can’t help but notice how it’s even smaller than my own car. It’s like a hatchback version of the Mazda Miata. Despite its tiny exterior, the interior surprisingly offers a decent amount of space.
Interior Comfort
Stepping inside the MINI Cooper SE, I’m pleasantly surprised at how roomy it feels. Even with its compact dimensions, it manages to accommodate me and my companion comfortably. Granted, we’re not very tall, but it still provides a level of practicality. The rear seats may not be suitable for full-grown adults, but they can be folded down to create ample storage space. Whether you’re sitting in the back or up front, visibility is excellent thanks to the boxy design and large pillars that give it a tank-like feel.
Driving Experience
As I start driving, I immediately notice how responsive and nimble the MINI Cooper SE feels. It’s like driving a go-kart on the road. The electric motor delivers instant torque, resulting in quick acceleration and a thrilling driving experience. The compact size of the car makes maneuvering through tight city streets a breeze, and the visibility helps in parking situations.
Electric Performance
The MINI Cooper SE is powered by an electric motor, and it doesn’t disappoint. The instant torque and smooth acceleration make it a joy to drive. The range may not be as impressive as some other electric cars on the market, but it’s more than enough for daily commuting and running errands. Plus, the regenerative braking system helps to maximize efficiency and extend the range even further.
Technological Features
Inside the MINI Cooper SE, there are plenty of technological features to keep you entertained and connected. The dual sunroofs let in ample natural light and add to the overall airy feel of the cabin. The infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use, with all the necessary functions at your fingertips. And with the MINI Connected app, you can control certain aspects of the car from your smartphone, such as preheating or precooling the interior.
Comfort and Build Quality
The 2024 MINI Cooper SE 3 Door certainly impresses when it comes to the comfort and build quality. The seats may feel a little firm, perhaps due to the German influence since BMW took over the brand in the early 2000s. However, the overall feel of the car is solid and well put together. The materials, especially the steering wheel, are top-notch. As a fan of steering wheels, I appreciate the inclusion of hard buttons. In terms of comfort, the MINI Cooper SE 3 Door is a winner.
Acceleration Test
Now, let’s move on to the exciting part – the acceleration test. We want to see what this electric go-kart is capable of. With the car in sport mode, we’re ready to unleash its power. As the light turns red, we put our left foot on the brake and step on the gas. Initially, the acceleration seems a little slow, but then it starts picking up speed. The MINI Cooper SE 3 Door surprises us with its zippy performance. It’s more than enough for daily driving, and the acceleration is easily modulated. We do wish the brakes were a bit more responsive, but overall, it stops safely.
Handling Test
Moving on to the handling test, we switch the car to sport mode again. With our left foot on the brake and our right foot on the gas, we prepare to test out its maneuverability. As we accelerate, the MINI Cooper SE 3 Door’s handling proves to be impressive. It handles corners with ease and picks up speed effortlessly. The car feels nimble and responsive, making it a joy to drive. The handling truly shines once it reaches higher speeds, providing a thrilling experience that keeps us on the edge of our seats.
Handling and Performance
The 2024 MINI Cooper SE 3 Door is a vehicle that handles like a go-kart. Its maneuverability is akin to that of a small racing vehicle. However, it does have a slight bit of understeer and an unusual torque steer sensation that is a bit challenging to explain. Nonetheless, this electric car is undeniably quick and offers exceptional handling on the road.
Turnaround Test
To test its agility, we conducted a quick turnaround test. The MINI Cooper SE 3 Door proved to be quick and efficient in making tight turns. Even in a hurry, it delivered a satisfactory performance. Maneuvering in a narrow space was made easy with the car’s reverse function. The transition from reverse to drive was smooth, allowing for seamless direction changes.
Parking Garage Exploration
Navigating a parking garage can be a daunting task, especially for a vehicle that is not particularly small. However, the MINI Cooper SE 3 Door excelled in this area. Despite its compact size, it offered an impressive amount of ground clearance, preventing any scraping or clearance issues that may occur in similar vehicles. Additionally, the car’s low seating position provided a sporty feel, enhancing the overall driving experience.
Parking Maneuvers
When it came to parking in tight spots, the MINI Cooper SE 3 Door proved to be a capable companion. The vehicle’s clear camera display and well-designed mirrors made parallel parking and maneuvering into tight spaces a breeze. The driver could easily assess their surroundings and make accurate adjustments, ensuring precise parking every time.
In conclusion, the 2024 MINI Cooper SE 3 Door is a remarkable electric vehicle that offers a genuinely thrilling driving experience. Its go-kart-like handling, impressive performance, and exceptional maneuverability make it stand out on the road. Whether navigating tight corners, making quick turns, or parking in challenging spaces, this car proves to be a reliable and enjoyable companion.
Highway and Handling Test
As we take the MINI Cooper SE 3 Door out for a spin, it’s important to note that we don’t want to scrape this nice car, and thankfully, it comes equipped with sensors to help us avoid any mishaps. Now, let’s see how it performs on the highway and in handling.
A Different Kind of Torque
One thing that immediately stands out about the MINI Cooper SE 3 Door is the instant torque. It’s unlike anything you’ll experience in a gas-powered car. As we accelerate, the power is delivered effortlessly, giving us a unique sensation. The wheels themselves seem to be running in a different way, which adds to the overall intriguing feel of the vehicle. While I may not know all the technical details, I can’t deny that it’s a bit strange but fascinating at the same time.
Handling with Ease
Despite the additional weight of the electric components, the MINI Cooper SE 3 Door handles exceptionally well. The extra 300 pounds hardly seem to affect its performance. As we zip through corners and take on challenging twists and turns, the car remains nimble and responsive. It effortlessly tackles the extra demands placed on it by its electrified nature.
An Oasis of Quiet
One of the standout features of the MINI Cooper SE 3 Door is its near-silent operation. As we cruise along the highway, the lack of engine noise is immediately noticeable. It’s so quiet that having a conversation inside the car becomes effortless. I can even hear the faint sound of a moose breathing in the distance, a testament to the tranquility of the cabin.
A Gimmicky, Yet Fun Touch
In the electric version of the MINI Cooper, there’s a unique feature that adds a touch of novelty. The round thing in the middle, which has been a hallmark of MINI interiors for a long time, now serves an additional purpose. It’s a little gimmicky, but it adds to the overall charm of the car, making the driving experience a bit more special.
And that concludes our full review of the 2024 MINI Cooper SE 3 Door. With its electric go-kart-like performance, impressive handling, and serene cabin, this car offers a thrilling and eco-friendly driving experience. Whether you’re navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the MINI Cooper SE 3 Door is a standout option in the fast-growing world of electric vehicles.
Design and Features
The 2024 MINI Cooper SE 3 Door has a unique design that catches the eye. One notable feature is the cool ring around the outside, which serves multiple purposes. It changes color based on the temperature, turning blue when it’s cold and warmer when it’s hot. This feature adds a touch of fun to the driving experience.
The interior of the MINI Cooper SE 3 Door is well-designed, with hard buttons that provide a satisfying tactile feel. As a BMW product, the buttons feel premium and add to the overall quality of the vehicle. The start-stop stop toggle is a nice touch and adds an element of excitement.
Entertainment and Controls
The MINI Cooper SE 3 Door offers racing-type toggles that add a sense of enjoyment. These toggles, located at the top and bottom of the console, provide a fun and unique way to control various features of the vehicle. Additionally, the radio volume control also changes with a satisfying feedback when adjusted. These small details make using the car’s controls an enjoyable experience.
Advanced Safety Features
BMW has incorporated some advanced safety features into the MINI Cooper SE 3 Door. While it may not be as technologically advanced as some other vehicles on the market, it does offer a useful green light indicator. This light serves as a warning when the driver is deviating from the intended path. Although it may not be hands-free, it provides a helpful reminder to stay focused on the road.
Performance and Handling
As an electric vehicle, the MINI Cooper SE 3 Door offers a unique driving experience. Its electric motor delivers quick acceleration, giving it the feel of a go-kart on the road. The vehicle handles well, making it nimble and fun to drive. The combination of its electric powertrain and compact size makes it ideal for maneuvering through city streets and tight spaces.
The Safety Features
The 2024 MINI Cooper SE 3 Door comes equipped with some basic safety features that ensure a smooth and secure ride. While it may not boast the most advanced safety technologies, it still provides a decent level of protection for the driver and passengers. These features include airbags, seatbelts, and other standard safety systems that you would expect to find in any modern vehicle.
The Interior Comfort
When it comes to interior comfort, the MINI Cooper SE 3 Door does not disappoint. The seats are plush and provide ample support, making for a comfortable seating experience even during long drives. Additionally, the cabin is quiet, allowing for a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere inside the car. One standout feature is the Harman Cardon sound system, which adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your driving experience. The sound quality is excellent, thanks to the inclusion of tweeters, and the way it fills the cabin with music is truly impressive.
The Infotainment System
The MINI Cooper SE 3 Door features a well-designed infotainment system that enhances the overall driving experience. The display is clear and crisp, making it easy to navigate through the various menus and settings. The system is divided into three main sections: communication, media, and navigation. This layout allows for seamless access to all the key functions of the car’s infotainment system. One standout feature is the full-screen navigation display, which provides clear and detailed directions, ensuring that you never get lost on your journey.
The Digital Gauge Cluster
The MINI Cooper SE 3 Door also boasts a digital gauge cluster that provides essential information to the driver. While it may not be the most advanced display in the market, it still offers all the necessary data in a clear and concise manner. The layout is simple and easy to understand, allowing the driver to stay informed about their speed, fuel levels, and other important details at a glance. For those looking for a more premium option, there is also the possibility of upgrading to a heads-up display for an even more enhanced driving experience.
The Space and Practicality
In terms of space and practicality, the MINI Cooper SE 3 Door shines as a compact and versatile vehicle. While it may not have the room to accommodate a large group of people, it offers enough space for a couple of passengers and some luggage for a weekend getaway. The rear seats can accommodate a child comfortably, making it a suitable option for small families as well. This car is the perfect choice for those who prioritize agility and maneuverability without compromising on practicality.
In conclusion, the 2024 MINI Cooper SE 3 Door is an electric go-kart for the road, delivering a thrilling driving experience with its nimble handling and responsive acceleration. While it may have some limitations in terms of safety features and passenger space, it more than makes up for it with its comfortable interior, impressive infotainment system, and practicality. Whether you are a city dweller looking for a compact and eco-friendly ride or an adrenaline junkie seeking a fun and thrilling driving experience, the MINI Cooper SE 3 Door is definitely worth considering.
2024 MINI Cooper SE 3 Door Full Review
An ELECTRIC GO-KART for the Road!
Overview
If you’re in the market for a small, fun EV vehicle, the 2024 MINI Cooper SE 3 Door is definitely worth considering. While it may have a limited range, this car is designed to be a second vehicle or a primary vehicle for individuals who don’t frequently embark on long trips and don’t require excessive space.
Electrifying Powertrain and Handling
Akin to its 1959 predecessor, the 2024 MINI Cooper SE 3 Door delivers an electrifying driving experience. The powertrain is impressive, delivering a thrilling ride that is both smooth and powerful. The go-kart-like handling adds another layer of excitement, making this car a joy to navigate through city streets and winding roads.
Sufficient Space for Daily Use
Despite its compact size, the MINI Cooper SE 3 Door offers plenty of space for everyday use. It is well-suited for commuting, running errands, and even accommodating a small family. The clever use of space ensures that you have ample room for your daily essentials without feeling cramped.
Affordable and Environmentally Friendly
One of the standout features of the MINI Cooper SE 3 Door is its affordability, especially when considering it as an electric vehicle. Not only will you save money on fuel costs, but you’ll also contribute to reducing carbon emissions. With the rising concerns over environmental impact, opting for this electric go-kart on the road is a responsible choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 2024 MINI Cooper SE 3 Door is a true electric go-kart for the road. It combines the fun and
The 2024 MINI Cooper SE 3 Door is a compact electric car that offers a fun and thrilling driving experience. Its go-kart-like handling, instant torque, and nimble maneuverability make it a joy to drive on the road. Despite its small exterior, the interior surprises with its roominess and practicality. While it may not have the longest range, it offers enough for daily use and is a practical choice for urban commuting. Overall, the MINI Cooper SE proves that electric cars can also be exciting and fun to drive.
The 2024 MINI Cooper SE 3 Door is a remarkable electric vehicle that lives up to its go-kart moniker. With its solid build quality, comfortable interior, and exhilarating performance, it offers an enjoyable driving experience. While the seats may be a little firm and the brakes could benefit from some improvement, these minor flaws don’t overshadow the overall excellence of this electric go-kart for the road. If you’re in the market for an electric vehicle that combines style, fun, and eco-friendliness, the 2024 MINI Cooper SE 3 Door should definitely be on your list.
In conclusion, the 2024 MINI Cooper SE 3 Door is a standout electric vehicle that offers a thrilling driving experience. Its unique design, well-designed interior, and entertaining controls make it a joy to operate. While it may not have the most advanced safety features, it still offers useful reminders to stay on track. Overall, the MINI Cooper SE 3 Door exemplifies the fun and excitement of driving an electric go-kart on the road.
