Pity there's a catch in the altogether lovely Mini

The ubiquitous Mini needs no introduction. But this one might! It's the Mini EV. 

So it’s a Mini with all the virtues we have come to know and love about the Mini but this one is a pure electric. 

The model I am testing this week is the Mini Cooper S Resolute Edition. 

Has it any street cred?

Well, it's a Mini so yes of course!

It really is a fantastic interpretation of the original of the species from the 1960’s. I just love it’s cheeky good looks and this version the Cooper S Resolute Edition boasts lots of detail Resolute Bronze styling features that make it even more distinctive not least of which is the “Rebel Green” paintwork.

What’s it like inside?

The cabin is superb!  The fit and finish are absolutely perfect and I really like the attention to detail in the design of the whole interior. 

It's packed with goodies too numerous to mention here, but some cool features include:

• Mini driving modes;
• A twin panoramic glass roof;
• In addition to a head-up display;
• Mood lighting which is fully changeable,

The rather nice aircraft-style toggle switches finished in chrome, 

The natty starter switch and of course the large round central screen which although nowadays is packed with things like sat nav and other multiple functions still looks like the original idea in the Mini of the sixties. 

In short, this is a truly boutique interior that feels special and is beautifully built with quality materials throughout. 

What is under the bonnet?

Well an electric motor of course! 

Power comes from a pretty small 32.6 kWh battery with a claimed range of up to 270km. However I got no where near this. Ok it's January and its a bit colder but nevertheless from 100% charge it showed a potential range of just 162km! In reality that turned out to be just 131 km which frankly is pretty poor.

 This Mini will really only suit those who do very short journeys as a real range of about 130km is one of the poorest out there. Compare that to other small EVs and it seems the Mini EV is really handicapped here.

Will I enjoy driving it?

The ride proves firm over poorer surfaces but proves fine on better roads. I am delighted to report the Mini EV handles like a Go Kart with great levels of grip and very little body roll despite the extra weight of the battery. 

In short, it proves agile, surprisingly nimble and actually really involving to drive. 

I loved every KM behind the wheel!

So what is the final verdict?

I really liked the Mini Cooper S Resolute EV. It has bags of character that we all associate with the Mini brand. It is very well kitted out and has lots of funky detailing which Mini buyers love. It's a car with flair, character and style.

So what’s the catch I hear you say? 

The Mini Cooper S EV is pricey with the model tested costing €42,440 and that very poor range will certainly limit its appeal. 

Pity really otherwise I loved it!