Update: All sections have been revised.
One out of every three MINIs sold globally in 2025 was electric, and a big part of that is down to the MINI Cooper, a fun little hatchback that has always put design and driving character ahead of outright practicality.
While it’s been on the market since 2024, we had a chance to take a close look at the MINI Cooper Electric recently in a global-spec model. Here are our thoughts about its key aspects from our experience:
Design
The MINI Cooper features an evolutionary exterior with flat headlights, the flatter bonnet without an air scoop, and the slimmer frame of the octagonal grille to give the car a classier look than the previous gen model.
If the signature styling elements haven’t already, the noticeably short overhangs, contrasting long wheelbase, sleek glasshouse, and the 3-door layout make the car immediately recognisable. The 18-inch six-double-spoke wheel doesn’t have a typical EV look and features a rather sporty design. We also like the clean surfacing across the side profile.
At the rear, we love the flush integration of the combination lamps, but we don’t find their sharp design as attractive as the curvy units of the previous-generation model. The full-width tailgate appliqué looks a little odd on what’s otherwise a clean exterior.
On the MINI Cooper Facelift (2027)
Interestingly, MINI design boss Holger Hampf confirmed to Autocar in May 2026 that significant facelifts are in the works for the Cooper, Countryman and Aceman.
Hampf, who joined MINI in October 2024 from BMW Group’s Designworks studio, said the upcoming updates would reflect customer feedback from the current generation. Based on the timeline he outlined, the Cooper Electric’s facelift is likely due in late 2027, carrying significant changes.
Interior
Inside, the curved dashboard is finished in textile surfaces, giving the cabin a more contemporary and softer look. At the same time, the oblong-shaped toggle bar in the lower section of the dashboard brings back a familiar MINI design cue and adds some much-needed character.
The centre console is slim and mounted low to free up space between the seats, but MINI has skipped a conventional centre armrest altogether. A small armrest is instead built into the driver’s seat, leaving the front passenger without any support.
The absence of a traditional instrument cluster is also immediately noticeable. Although a head-up display is available, it is not standard, making the 9.4-inch OLED central touchscreen the sole source of most driving and vehicle information.
iDrive X for the Cooper Electric?
MINI’s latest operating system already feels more modern than BMW Group’s iDrive 9 setup. However, sources familiar with MINI’s internal planning suggest the brand is evaluating a version of BMW’s iDrive X system for the current-generation Cooper and Countryman as part of a future facelift.
Unlike conventional infotainment upgrades, iDrive X introduces BMW’s new Panoramic Vision display and a heavily reworked operating system that require new projection hardware, greater processing power, and deeper integration with vehicle systems.
If approved, MINI is expected to adapt the technology to its own design language rather than directly copying BMW’s execution.
Experience in the MINI Cooper Electric
At 170 cm (5’7″), I found the MINI Cooper’s low roofline made entry and exit a bit awkward. I had to duck, and my head still brushed the cantrail. From the driver’s seat, visibility was good, helped by large mirrors. The chunky, manually adjustable steering wheel felt solid.
I liked the low seating position and the footwell dip near the pedals. I had about five inches of headroom once I adjusted the seat to my driving position. Lumbar support was excellent, while under-thigh support was decent. Materials felt good overall, though a few areas could be improved.
I liked the fabric trims, physical controls, and quick maps. A head-up display was fitted, but I won’t be the only person who misses a simple instrument cluster.
In the rear, legroom behind my driving position was good considering that this is an urban runabout, but the backrest felt a bit too upright with no recline. Headroom was about three inches. One centre cupholder is provided, and no rear air vents.
Specifications
The MINI Cooper Electric is 3,858 mm long, 1,756 mm wide, and 1,460 mm tall and has a 2,526 mm wheelbase. In the UK, customers can choose from two single-motor FWD variants: E and SE.
MINI Cooper E
The MINI Cooper E produces 135 kW (184 hp) and 290 Nm (214 lb.-ft.) of torque, accelerates from 0-62 mph in 7.3 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 99 mph. It uses a 40.7 kWh battery pack and supports DC fast charging at up to 75 kW, allowing a 10-80% charge in 28 minutes. MINI quotes a WLTP range of 289-300 km (180-186 miles) depending on specification.
MINI Cooper SE
The MINI Cooper SE develops 160 kW (218 hp) and 330 Nm (243 lb.-ft.) of torque, cutting the 0-62 mph sprint to 6.7 seconds while increasing the top speed to 106 mph. It features a 54.2 kWh battery pack with DC charging capability of up to 95 kW, enabling a 10-80% charge in 30 minutes. The WLTP range is rated at 385-400 km (239-249 miles) depending on specification.
Price
In the UK, the MINI Cooper Electric range starts at GBP 26,905 OTR for the Cooper E Classic, topping out at GBP 33,705 OTR for the Paul Smith Edition.
Since 2014, I’ve worked as an international automotive editor, attending global motor shows, industry events, media drives, and tracking the latest developments across the sector, with a particular focus on electrified vehicles.
