[Taboni] The 'Go-Kart Feeling' Remains Even as It Evolves into an EV... The All-Electric MINI Cooper

Maximum Output of 218 Horsepower, Peak Torque of 33.7 kg·m
300 km Range on a Single Charge... Supports Rapid Charging
Smooth Active Cruise Control Even on Rainy Nights

The all-electric MINI Cooper, a pure urban electric vehicle that most authentically embodies the MINI identity, has retained the brand’s signature playful spirit even as it has evolved. Over four days, I test-drove the all-electric MINI Cooper Favoured trim, experiencing the distinctive driving feel that MINI is known for, as well as enhanced safety and convenience features that are well-suited for the era of electric vehicles.

The All-Electric Mini Cooper. MINI Korea

The most impressive aspect is the synergy between the instant responsiveness unique to electric vehicles and MINI’s signature “go-kart feeling.” The moment you press the accelerator, it surges forward smoothly and swiftly. The vehicle boasts a maximum output of 218 horsepower and a peak torque of 33.7 kg·m, accelerating from a standstill to 100 km/h in just 6.7 seconds. A 54.2 kWh high-voltage battery is mounted under the chassis, lowering the center of gravity, which provides a stable driving sensation that feels as if the car is hugging the road, even when cornering.

The all-electric MINI’s driving range per full charge is 300 km based on Korean standards. When I first received the vehicle, it was ready to drive about 280 km, and there were no issues driving around Seoul over four days. The rapid charging feature allows the battery to reach 80% in just 30 minutes, so I only needed to charge the car once during the test drive.

Furthermore, it’s time to discard the stereotype that the all-electric MINI Cooper is just about speed and fun. Advanced features that support driver safety and convenience significantly reduce driving fatigue. The true value of the “Driving Assistant Plus” equipped on the Favoured trim stood out, especially during rainy night drives.

The All-Electric MINI Cooper. MINI Korea

Even in dark, rainy conditions, the active cruise control with stop-and-go support and lane-keeping assist function accurately detected the lanes and the distance to the car ahead, intervening reliably. Even in heavy traffic, the vehicle provided smooth starts and stops as the car in front stopped and started.

Additionally, the “Parking Assistant Plus” system, which includes surround view and remote 3D view, made parking in busy urban settings much easier. The power front seats and driver’s seat massage function added comfort to the joy of driving.

The All-Electric Mini Cooper. MINI Korea

The exterior of the new all-electric MINI Cooper reflects a new design language of “charismatic simplicity.” Flush-type door handles have been adopted for a sleeker surface, while classic round headlamps, an octagonal grille, and Union Jack-inspired rear lamps preserve MINI’s heritage.

The most eye-catching feature inside is the 240 mm diameter round OLED display. Developed in collaboration with Samsung Display, this screen boasts smartphone-like responsiveness and sharp image quality. The Korean-style navigation system, based on Tmap, reflects battery charge levels to guide you along optimal routes, and you can even set a minimum battery percentage for your destination, reducing range anxiety during EV drives.

All-Electric Mini Cooper OLED Display. Photo by Youngchan Choi

The “MINI Experience Modes,” available in seven different options, create a more immersive interior atmosphere by adjusting graphics and ambient lighting to match the driving situation. In particular, when go-kart mode is activated, the acceleration sound, combined with red lighting in the cabin and on the head-up display, doubles the driving excitement.

The all-electric MINI Cooper is priced at 52.5 million won for the Classic trim and 56.1 million won for the Favoured trim I test drove.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.