For over half a century, the iconic MINI Cooper has embodied an unmistakable blend of playful spirit and urban practicality. Now, in its fifth generation, MINI takes a giant leap forward with the introduction of the all-electric MINI Cooper SE. This isn’t just a cosmetic makeover with a battery shoved in; it’s a complete redesign that celebrates the car’s heritage while propelling it into the digital age.
A Familiar Face, Electrified
The 2024 MINI Cooper SE retains the classic silhouette that generations have come to love – the short overhangs, the cheeky bonnet, and the contrasting long wheelbase. But look closer, and you’ll find a thoroughly modern car. Gone are the chrome accents, replaced by a cleaner, more minimalist look. The signature grille gets a refresh with a striking octagonal design, and for the first time ever, MINI offers three distinct light signatures for the iconic circular headlights. These headlights can be switched to personalize the car’s appearance and even feature a special welcome and goodbye animation.
Personalization Powerhouse
The new MINI Cooper SE isn’t a one-size-fits-all proposition. With three distinct trim levels (Classic, Exclusive, and Sport) and a range of exterior paint finishes, roof color options, and wheel choices, buyers can truly personalize their electric chariot. The Classic trim offers a clean, understated look, while the Exclusive adds a touch of luxury with a Multitone Roof and a vibrant silver grille. The Sport trim channels MINI’s motorsport heritage with its high-gloss black accents and optional red stripes.
Stepping Inside a Digital Oasis
The MINI Cooper SE interior echoes the exterior’s minimalist theme. Gone are the cluttered buttons and knobs. Instead, the focus is on a central OLED display – a first for MINI – and the iconic circular instrument cluster. This curved dashboard features a unique knitted textile surface made from recycled polyester, a testament to MINI’s commitment to sustainability. For additional comfort and a touch of personalization, the armrest is mounted on the driver’s seat, providing more space in the center console.
The Future is Touch (and Voice)
The new MINI Operating System 9, based on Android, takes center stage. This system allows for intuitive touch and voice control of all vehicle functions. The large, round OLED display puts everything you need at your fingertips, with a clear layout that separates driving information from navigation, media, and phone controls. The optional Head-up Display lets drivers see essential information without taking their eyes off the road.
Beyond Navigation: A Connected Experience
MINI Operating System 9 goes beyond basic navigation. It offers real-time traffic updates, parking assistance with integrated payment options, and even the ability to calculate a charge-optimized route for your electric journey. The optional MINI Connected Package unlocks a world of in-car entertainment, with apps for gaming, music, and even video streaming. This allows passengers to turn their smartphones into game controllers for on-the-go entertainment.
Seven Moods, One MINI
The new MINI Cooper SE isn’t just about getting from point A to point B. It’s about creating an experience. With seven MINI Experience Modes (Core, Green, Go-Kart, Personal, Vivid, Timeless, and Balance), drivers can tailor the car’s personality to their mood. Each mode alters the display graphics, interior lighting, and driving characteristics. Want a sportier feel with sharper handling? Go for Go-Kart Mode. Feeling nostalgic for a classic MINI driving experience? Timeless Mode might be your pick.
Personalization Extends to the Seats
The interior offers a variety of new materials and design features, including a new three-spoke steering wheel with a textile strap. The seats come in various finishes, from sporty black synthetic leather to houndstooth patterns in classic MINI style. The knitted surfaces on the dashboard can even be personalized by selecting an image through the MINI App, which will then be reflected in the colors of the textile surface.
“Hey MINI!” – Your Electric Butler
For the first time ever, the MINI electric car introduces a fully-fledged voice assistant. Activated with a simple “Hey MINI,” this intelligent assistant allows you to control navigation and phone calls and adjust vehicle functions like temperature. The assistant learns your driving habits and can even automate certain actions, making your daily commute a breeze. For added safety and convenience, drivers can also use voice commands to control the climate control settings.
Parking Made Easy (and Even Easier)
The new MINI Cooper SE boasts a suite of driver assistance systems designed to make life easier. The Parking Assistant Plus uses sensors and cameras to identify parking spaces and even handle the parking maneuvers for you. Explore Mode takes things a step further, allowing you to park your car remotely if the space is too tight to get out.
Charge Up, Fast
The MINI Cooper SE comes in two variants: the Cooper E and the Cooper SE. The Cooper E offers a range of up to 190 miles, while the Cooper SE bumps up to 250 miles. Both variants can be charged in various ways, including AC charging at home and DC fast charging at public stations. The battery can be juiced from 10% to 80% in under 30 minutes at a fast-charging station.
The MINI Cooper SE: A Legacy Recharged
The new MINI Cooper SE is more than just an electric car; it’s a revolution in retrograde. It takes everything we love about the classic MINI – the playful spirit, the go-kart handling, the iconic design – and reimagines it for the electric age. With its innovative technology, personalized experience, and commitment to sustainability, the MINI Cooper SE is poised to become a legend in its own right.
