MINI Electric review - Practicality, comfort and boot space

MINI offers various body styles across the range, but for now the Electric model is only available as a three-door hatchback. These small car dimensions make it easier to navigate through busy traffic and parking manoeuvres shouldn’t pose too much of a problem. Models with the Level 2 trim include rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera, while Level 3 versions add front parking sensors and Parking Assistant, which can automatically parallel park your MINI for you.

The mid-spec Level 2 models also include MINI’s Comfort Access System which allows keyless entry to your car - sensors detect the presence of the key as you approach and unlock all the doors.

Despite the MINI Electric’s relatively short range, charging the battery appears quite straightforward. A type 2 charging cable is standard and, from a 7.4kW home wallbox (purchased at extra cost), a full charge takes just over three hours. A 50kW rapid charging station will deliver full battery life in just 36 minutes.

Size

The MINI Electric is 3,845mm in length and 1,928mm wide. The Honda e is ever-so-slightly longer at 3,894mm, but narrower than the MINI at 1,752mm. In terms of overall height, the MINI sits lower than the Honda, measuring 1,432mm versus 1,512mm.

18

Leg room, head room & passenger space

Considering its small-scale dimensions, the MINI delivers decent head and shoulder room for the driver and front passenger. The front seats still tilt and slide forward to help with access to the rear, however, the space on offer for passengers is pretty tight. Although two adults are able to sit in the back, we wouldn’t recommend it for longer journeys.

Boot

The MINI’s boot capacity with all seats in place is 211 litres, which is much better than the 171 litres on offer in the Honda e. The Japanese rival fares better with the rear seats folded - 861 litres load capacity versus 731 litres for the MINI.