It’s good to see that some manufacturers haven’t yet given up on their small cars. And how could you when your car is called the ‘Mini’. Times have changed dramatically since the first Mini was introduced and with the passing of time, the Mini has definitely grown and now added a third option for propulsion, electric.
I kind of expected something lighter and perhaps more nimble, even with the extra battery weight and use of regenerative energy, the element of fun is still there. In this review, we will take a closer look at the features, specifications, and driving experience of the MINI Electric Resolute Edition.
Special mention : That low slung driving position, great visibility, cabin design, front passenger comfort, battery range is genuine. Apple CarPlay works well. Harmon Kardon sounds brilliant in a Mini cabin. Slow charging is good.
Needs work : Range is very small, ‘always on’ brake regen takes away from the fun, necessary to hold on to the range. ‘Haptic’ plastic is plasticky.
| 181HP – 220 km (178km as tested) Range | Electric / Auto |
| 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds | Road Tax €120 |
| Price: €42,775.86 | Boot Space 211 litres |
Design and Features
The MINI Electric stays true to the iconic design language that has made MINI cars so popular over the years. It features the classic MINI Cooper shape, with its rounded headlights, hexagonal grille, and short overhangs. It even has a small air intake on the bonnet, which an EV doesn’t need but is a really nice touch. There are some subtle design tweaks that set the Resolute Edition apart from its petrol-powered siblings.
One of the most noticeable changes is the unique Resolute Edition badge on the front grille, which adds a touch of exclusivity to the electric MINI. Additionally, the Resolute Edition comes with 17-inch alloys that have been specifically designed for this model, giving it that electric car look. The Level 2 trim comes with 17” alloys, heated seats and a rear view camera, while the Level 3 versions include a panoramic glass sunroof and the highly enjoyable and bassy Harman Kardon audio system. The introduction of the Resolute Edition gives it some extras such as the Rebel Green solid paint with bronze-coloured exterior accents, and the Resolute badging inside and outside.
Performance and Range
Under the hood, the MINI Electric Resolute Edition is powered by a single electric motor & 32.6kWh battery, producing a total of 181bhp. It can get from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.3 seconds, not entirely fire breathing for an EV but quick enough.
In terms of range, the MINI Electric offers an estimated range of 230 km on a full charge using lots of regenerative braking. Driving it normally and in the winter we saw a range of 172 kms with 100% battery. While this is not as impressive as some of its competitors, it is more than sufficient for daily bits n pieces and city driving or commuting. The Resolute Edition supports DC fast charging, which allows you to recharge the battery up to 80% in just 35 minutes. This makes it easy for multiple charge stops on longer trips but not something I’d want to have to do frequently.
There are four driving modes to switch between, you get a mild Sport, Mid, Green and Green+. Leaving it set in standard Mid mode is best, using Sport and Green sparingly as one will use all your juice and the other feels like driving in mud, and not in a fun way. Then there’s Green+ which seems like the best way to get home if you’re running extremely low on battery as it reduces comforts such as the climate control.
Interior and Technology
Inside the MINI Electric you’ll find it looks initially much the same but there’s a modern and well-designed interior combining style with functionality. The seats are superb and easy to manoeuvre into place, they’re supportive and come with that incredible low slung go kart position. Considering the Mini’s dimensions, there’s loads of space for the front seat passengers, where it’s really the rear of the car that suffers the most on the comfort side for head and leg room. The front seats still tilt and slide forward to help with access to the rear, however these seats are fit for small children and short journeys.
The MINI’s boot capacity with all seats in place is 211 litres and 731 litres with the seats folded. They’ve also included a handy split floor in the boot under which you can hide the cables and the shelf ‘clips’ handily in place so you don’t have to hold it when accessing the space.
The dashboard features a modern design, with a large digital instrument drivers cluster and a central touchscreen display which is a bit fiddly to use and the surrounding plastic could do with a material upgrade.
The Resolute Edition comes with a host of advanced technology features, including Apple CarPlay and MINI Connected Services. The touch screen is responsive and the graphics clear, yet the layout isn’t as intuitive as it could be. The plastics surrounding the screen and the ones on the steering wheel are a little on the flimsy side and really are the only materials that need an upgrade, apart from those, the main switches and dials are BMW levels of quality.
The limited range may be off putting but I’ve driven EVs that claimed to have more yet would have me on edge with what the Mini gives at 100%. While the battery is very good at retaining its charge, this is at the cost of driver fun and engagement as brake regeneration keeps the thrills to a minimum. Still, it very much has that brilliant low slung driving position locked down and added to the beefy looks, it gives you a great sense of having fun.