car tests

Mini Aceman

Since Mini’s relaunch in 2001, not many different models have actually been added besides the Cooper. The Cooper remains the beating heart of the brand, with models around it such as the Countryman, Clubman and a number of convertible and roadster variants. Meanwhile, the lineup now consists only of the Cooper and Countryman. The Paceman, actually a three-door version of the Countryman, was also once there, but it did not become a great success. Now a spiritual successor is making its appearance: the Aceman.

Not small, not big

Dimensions, that’s what the Aceman is all about. As mentioned, it is larger than the Cooper and smaller than the Countryman. The Aceman has a length of 4.07 meters, which makes it 35 centimeters shorter than the Countryman, but 22 centimeters longer than the three-door electric Cooper. Thus, the Aceman fills exactly the space in the Mini lineup. In terms of luggage space, the Aceman offers 300 liters and 1,005 liters with the rear seats folded down, making it practical enough for daily use and weekend trips.

Always electric

The main difference between the Mini Aceman and the Cooper and Countryman is not only in the dimensions. While the Countryman and Cooper are still available with a gasoline engine, the Aceman is all-electric. It has been designed from the ground up as an EV, so there will not be a gasoline version or a plug-in hybrid.

E and SE

The Mini Aceman is available in two flavors: the Aceman E and the Aceman SE. The Aceman E is the entry-level model and features 135 kW (184 hp), which allows it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds and has a top speed of 160 km/h. This version has a battery capacity of 42.5 kWh, of which 38.5 kWh is usable, good for a theoretical driving range of 310 kilometers. Charging is done with a maximum fast-charging capacity of 75 kW.

The more powerful Aceman SE has an output of 160 kW (218 hp) and sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.1 seconds. The top speed is slightly higher, at 170 km/h. This version is equipped with a larger battery of 54.2 kWh, of which 49 kWh is usable, resulting in a driving range of 405 kilometers. In practice, count on 300 to 350 kilometers. At a fast charger, the SE can charge at 95 kW.

How does he drive?

Mini is known for its sporty driving experience, and the term “kart feel” is frequently used by the marketing department. This is not just a slogan, because a Mini Cooper – including the new electric Mini Cooper SE – is a delightful crawler. For those looking for a little more comfort, there is the Countryman. And the Aceman? That one is closer to the Cooper, with sporty handling that perfectly matches Mini’s brand identity. Despite its compact size, the Aceman sits firmly on the road and offers that direct steering feel you would expect from a Mini. As a result, you can count on a playful and agile driving experience. Fortunately, the suspension is less harsh than that of the Cooper, keeping even longer family rides comfortable.

Angular and robust

In terms of looks too, the Aceman is a mix between the Countryman and Cooper, but leans more toward the Countryman’s rugged style. Up front, you’ll find sleek, angular headlights as opposed to the Cooper’s familiar round lights. A subtle nod to the original Mini can be seen in the round shapes just below the window pillar.

On the side, the angular wheel arches are particularly striking. The plastic protective edges around the wheel arches give the Aceman a robust look. This makes the car appear large, even though it is still a compact SUV in terms of size. The recessed door handles come straight from BMW’s storage closet and contribute to a modern and sleek appearance.

The rear of the Aceman is very reminiscent of the Countryman, with broad shoulders and the license plate in the bumper. The continuous sides merge seamlessly into a spoiler, which the brand says contributes to the car’s aerodynamics. Of course, the Union Jack taillights cannot be missing to emphasize its originally British character.

Nicest interior on the market?

Inside you will find one of the nicest interiors Mini has designed to date. It is not unique, as we already know the interior from the new Cooper and Countryman, although we do discover a few unique details. For example, the door panels are designed differently with a special door handle and there is a decorative band behind the steering wheel. The OLED screen in the center of the dashboard steals the show, offering a razor-sharp, colorful display. The round screen may take some getting used to, but it works intuitively and smoothly.

The materials used are top quality. The dashboard and door panels are mostly covered with soft fabrics, as if your grandmother had carefully embroidered the interior. We mean that in a positive way, because the result is sleek and stylish. The Aceman is no bargain – see prices below – but once you see the interior, you’ll understand why.

Conclusion

The Mini Aceman is an electric car for young families with small children who want to drive just a little differently from the rest of the street. As with all Mini models, the Aceman is all about style, design and driving pleasure. Its playful design and sporty driving characteristics will make you smile when you get behind the wheel.

It offers enough luggage space and comfort for everyday use, but its maximum quick-loading power of 95 kW makes it somewhat less suitable for long trips to southern Europe. With a starting price of just under 39,000 euros for the E version and around 41,000 euros for the SE, the Aceman also positions itself between the Cooper and the Countryman in terms of price. In the video below we tell you more about the new Mini: