What is it?

For the last two decades, the Mini has been one of the most popular and customisable small cars in the world. However, times are changing and the world is focusing towards a more sustainable future, and likewise, so is Mini.

The firm has committed that by the end of the decade, it will solely produce battery-electric vehicles, and currently there are EV versions of the Cooper hatch and Countryman SUV. However, now there is a third part to the mix with the Aceman – which completes the Mini family and is the first pure electric model sold by the brand.

What’s new?

The B-segment SUV market is positively booming and this new Mini brings a lot to the overcrowded party through its eye-catching styling cues, personalisation options and because it’s sold only as an electric vehicle – with no internal-combustion or hybrid options available.

Meanwhile, an array of standard equipment such as the classic Mini OLED infotainment screen gives the inside of this new car an abundance of character, too.

But, what we want to know is, does the Aceman drive as good as the standard Cooper? And if so, is it worth it? We’ve been finding out.


What’s under the bonnet?

The Aceman is available with a choice of two different battery packs and are badged E and SE.

The former comes with a 42.8kWh battery pack and electric motor that gives a power output of 186bhp and 290Nm of torque. It has a top speed of 99mph and Mini claims it can do a total of 192 miles on a single charge.

We’re driving the latter, which comes with a larger 54.2kWh battery pack and electric motor that generates a total of 221bhp and 330Nm of torque. Meanwhile, its top speed is 105mph and 0-60mph is dealt with in 6.9 seconds. Additionally, it has a claimed range of up to 252 miles between trips to the plug.


What’s it like to drive?

Mini’s have always had that sporty wheel-at-each-corner feel and this new Aceman thankfully has the same fun character. To drive, there is no doubt that its fun DNA has not been lost as the car handles really well with little body lean and it feels planted when you go into a corner.

Acceleration isn’t too brisk but it’s still perfectly acceptable and thankfully refinement hasn’t been overlooked with the car – feeling very quiet and smooth at speeds. Motorway work is a breeze and even though our test car was sitting on 18-inch alloy wheels, the ride wasn’t too bumpy, either.

Around town, visibility is great thanks to the small C-pillar cut-out windows and the overall dimensions mean that this SUV isn’t too much hard work when feeding through traffic.

There are seven different driving modes, but our favourite is ‘go-kart’ as it sharpens up the throttle and the handling even further giving that sportier edge.

How does it look?

If you squint, you could mistake the Aceman for the smaller hatch or larger Countryman – but that’s no bad thing as the Mini range isn’t exactly ugly. Look a bit closer and you’ll see the same traditional circular headlight design and flush door handles. Plus, all cars come with plastic wheel arch guards and Union Jack-styled rear brake lights. Also, for an added cost, you can customise the rear light design via the main infotainment screen.

Overall though, the Aceman is a great-looking small SUV that not only looks distinctly like a Mini but also manages to look funky and fresh without being too wild and divisive.

What’s it like inside?

Mini is committed to an electric and sustainable future, so it’s no surprise that when you step inside the Aceman, all the materials throughout have been made from recyclables.

The 2D knitted fabric on the dashboard is the same as you’ll find on the Cooper and Countryman and there is a nice strap design in front of the steering wheel. Also, all cars come with a 9.5-inch OLED circular screen and there are physical toggle switches located beneath which include different drive modes and the gear selector.

Space in the back isn’t too bad with ample leg and knee room, although our test car had the panoramic glass roof fitted which does pinch a bit of headroom.

Boot space isn’t the best in class either, with the Jeep Avenger and Volvo EX30 scoring better here. The Mini’s total capacity with the seats in place is 300 litres or that extends to 1,005 litres when you fold the rear bench down.

What’s the spec like?

Just like with the rest of the Mini range, the Aceman’s trim levels only comprise three different versions - Classic, Exclusive and Sport - and prices kick off at £31,800 for the entry-level model.

We’re driving the mid-range Exclusive with the SE powertrain and it comes in at £39,600 and includes features such as DAB radio, LED headlights, climate control and ambient lighting.

The flagship Sport adds a John Cooper Works body kit and enhanced exterior and interior detailing such as sports seats, side skirts and a rear roof spoiler.

Verdict

Thankfully, Mini’s first full EV keeps up the trend of the firm’s funky and fresh appearance, while maintaining a great driving experience and interesting cabin design.

It may not be the cheapest car in its class, and the boot space lags behind some of its rivals. However, with decent equipment levels, and having the choice of two battery options, the Aceman is a small and good-looking SUV that you buy not only with your heart but with your head as well.