Practicality and Boot Space

The MINI is a reasonably practical car, with four seats and a hatchback, behind which is a load area big enough for a week’s shopping or a couple of carry-on sized suitcases. In fact, the space for passengers and luggage is exactly the same as the petrol-powered MINI models. But if you are looking for a truly useful family car, the MINI is unlikely to be it. For a start, it is only available with three doors, so rear passengers will have to clamber over the front seat and strapping a child into the back will require dexterity. 

Second, the MINI’s boot might be adequate, but it is soundly beaten for space by most rivals. At 211 litres, it is smaller than even the VW e-UP!, which manages to cram 251 litres in. 

For smaller objects there is plenty of storage space around the cabin though, and the Electric sits 15mm higher than a standard MINI. This might be a small amount, but it could make access fractionally easier for anyone who is less mobile.

Technology

The interior of the MINI Electric might have styling nods to the classic Mini, but the technology is thoroughly modern and geared up for the electric age. Unlike the petrol and diesel models, the Electric has a new digital dashboard with a 5.5-inch colour screen behind the steering wheel. As well as a speedo it has information on the battery level, available range and directions from the navigation system.

The standard navigation fitted to the Level 1 and Level 2 versions includes a 8.8-inch touchscreen in the central instrument panel. It allows Apple CarPlay, as well as public charging stations.

Upgrade to the Level 3 and you’ll get a bigger central screen and a gadget which gives the MINI the ability to park itself in spaces. You’ll need to choose the Level 2 or 3 if you want the Driving Assistant Pack too, which includes a rear parking camera, traffic sign recognition and some other safety kit. 

Safety

It’s been a while since the independent testing body Euro NCAP has sampled a MINI of any sort, but there’s no reason to think the electric version will be any less strong than the petrol model, which scored four stars (out of five) in 2014. Modifications for the Electric include a reinforced bumper to protect the precious electronic control units and motor, while the battery underneath the back seats is protected by a solid plate.

This MINI is also marginally longer than the ‘normal’ model too, giving it a lengthier nose which is better able to protect pedestrians.

If you want help to avoid hitting pedestrians (or anyone else) then you’ll need to find a bit of extra cash though. Electronics which help prevent accidents in the first place are disappointingly only available on the posher Level 2 and Level 3 models as part of the Driving Assistant Pack. It includes a rear camera, traffic sign information that displays the speed limits in the central display, plus city collision which detects if you are in danger of hitting something and applies the brakes automatically.