The MINI Cooper SE, a stylish car with a modern (and all-electric) design that never fails to entertain
Flattering comparison
In the past, I've had the opportunity to test rather sportier versions of the MINI. That's why the new SE at first glance seemed to me very comical and "without energy". But that was a wrong first impression, because energy is something this car doesn't lack. On the contrary, it actually plays a role that was lacking in the earlier cars. While sports cars were expected to have the drive and elements to accompany their speed and sporty looks, the MINI SE comes across as their unassuming cousin, just right for a trip to morning brunch. But appearances are deceptive. The real experience comes when you get going.
Unconventional but stylish
As soon as you get in, the circular display in the centre of the dashboard, between the driver and passenger, will catch the eye. At first I thought it was a conventional panel, as is common in all standard cars. Another mistake on my part. This display is mainly for the driver: it can be used to control virtually everything from the car's temperature settings to the range and countless other applications. This display also fully replaces the conventional dashboard behind the steering wheel. And there's nothing in these places in the MINI SE. NOTHING. If you're wondering if the developers made a mistake and accidentally forgot this feature, they didn't. Instead of a dashboard behind the steering wheel, a glass panel appears when you start the car, showing the current speed of the car. It's a purely stylish but perfectly functional feature that completes the design of the entire car.
After all, viewing the multi-function instrument cluster, which is de facto to the driver's right hand, is no problem either. What's more, the passenger also has access to all the controls. The round display not only looks great, but is also very clear. In addition to the classic climate control, the panel also includes apps such as unlock settings, weather, car charging and steering assist. Of course, there is no shortage of safety features either. For example, the MINI is great at assisting you when parking and zoning to show how far you are from other cars or the kerb. But it doesn't do this by approximating the space as standard, as the auxiliary lines show exactly how much space you still have to touch surrounding objects. The graphic design of the display is also worth mentioning, it's really fantastic - and it makes it very easy to navigate the whole system.
It is also relatively easy to navigate in the suitcase... The volume is not impressive - it can only hold a travel case and maybe two smaller backpacks. However, folding down the rear seats gives you 941 litres of space and therefore room for practically anything.
Driving characteristics
The ride offered by the MINI SE is somewhat harsh, especially on uneven surfaces, but otherwise it is a very pleasant experience. The steering wheel, which is as easy to grip as a Playstation gamepad, is certainly worth mentioning. The controls are simple, the car responds beautifully and the driving itself is a truly remarkable experience. The MINI's small size also makes it nimble (and playful), but it holds its own on the road. So even though it's not a sports car, you'll actually feel like a racer in a way behind the wheel.
And that's not all. Electric cars have an advantage in acceleration that conventional combustion engines simply don't offer. Even though it's a MINI, this car certainly doesn't lack power. So when the traffic lights turn green, the car literally shoots off, leaving everyone else behind. What's more, it also offers a great sound effect. The sound the SE makes when accelerating is like something out of a futuristic movie. You'll never get tired of this! (And if it does, the sound can be easily switched off.)
Verdict
If you'd like to have a car that entertains, commands attention (and you'd like to become part of the MINI family), the MINI SE is for you. If you accept it for the unique car it is, it will never let you down. That's because the SE doesn't play games and offers exactly what you see. Style and, most importantly, fun (after all, who wouldn't want to try strapping that legendary chair to its roof some day?).
