Mini Cooper SE review

The latest ‘new Mini’ represents an interesting change of tack for its maker - and in more ways than one.

Firstly, there’s the nomenclative departure. This fourth-generation modern Mini hatchback is now the Mini Cooper in a formal make-and-model sense (there will be no more Mini Ones or Mini Electrics, etc). Secondly comes the technical shift; although the combustion-engined version of this car survives to mirror it as part of a broader Mini Cooper model range, ‘the all-new Mini’ is, in point of fact, electric-only (the new ICE version being ostensibly an overhauled third-generation car with a new interior).

And thirdly? Well, as we’ll come to shortly, that’s all about the fine detail of the all-electric version’s execution. This is a slightly different kind of electric Mini, I’d say: in its appearance, its positioning and its makeup. More mature- and sophisticated-feeling, and a little more versatile and usable with it; but also just a little less of a singular, fun-loving kind of car. Less of a sporting statement car, more of a real-world premium prospect. The same, but different.

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