It may be amusing to check Mini to an artist like Taylor Swift, albeit with a bit much less aptitude. Simply as Swift’s evolution from a rustic singer to a world pop icon makes her really feel like a special persona, Mini too has reworked drastically over time, transferring away from its unique idea of being "mini." These days, about 70% of Mini gross sales on this nation are of autos that might be jokingly categorized as SUVs. Much more stunning is that almost 40% of Mini’s gross sales now come from electrical autos. This shift makes the Mini Aceman — a compact, SUV-like mannequin that appeals to those that discover the Countryman unappealing — a notable addition to their lineup.
Including to the modifications, the Aceman is now manufactured in China, differing from its UK or German roots, making it tougher to identify the standard Mini allure.
Curiously, Mini has opted to launch the Aceman to the general public earlier than permitting the media to evaluation it till March, which has not deterred gross sales however left some critics feeling excluded from the brand new mannequin’s rollout.
In a curious twist, Mini Australia has already deemed the entry-level Aceman — priced at a aggressive $51,990 plus on-road prices — a misstep, placing this variant right into a run-out part with restricted availability at dealerships. This choice seemingly displays shopper suggestions, particularly on condition that this mannequin got here with a modest 38.5kWh battery, providing a variety of simply 310 km and an influence output of 135kW. On account of its restricted attraction, it was not included in take a look at drives.
As an alternative, the SE variant is the mannequin at the moment out there for buy, that includes a extra strong 160kW energy output and 330Nm of torque from a 49.2kWh battery, offering a variety of 406 km and priced at $60,990 plus on-road prices.
The Aceman serves as a five-door electrical SUV, designed to fill the hole between the two-door Mini Cooper and the bigger Mini Countryman. Whereas a five-door Mini Cooper is on the market, it solely comes with a petroleum engine, leaving the Aceman as the only real electrical choice.
On the value level of $60,990, consumers can anticipate a contemporary inside geared up with a particular round show, a selfie digicam, adaptive cruise management, augmented actuality navigation, heated entrance seats, a panoramic sunroof, a trendy sports activities steering wheel, a high quality sound system, in addition to wi-fi capabilities for each Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Different options embrace 19-inch alloy wheels, tinted glass, and a premium Harman Kardon audio system.
As compared, the Mini Cooper C Favoured five-door begins at $49,990 (plus on-road prices), requiring petrol for operation, whereas the Aceman is barely bigger however notably 36cm shorter than the Countryman, with a roof that’s 12cm decrease.
Eco-conscious shoppers will respect that the Aceman incorporates no chrome or leather-based, with alloy wheels constructed from recycled supplies and an inside constructed with 90% recycled polyester — a commendable effort, though the inside supplies could lack a premium really feel.
In idea, the Aceman and Countryman are positioned to seize a major share of Mini’s gross sales in Australia, catering to those that love the model however discover the usual Mini Cooper too small. This raises questions on whether or not households or these with bigger wants would discover the Aceman appropriate, on condition that it has a boot capability of 300 liters. The rear seating is an enchancment over the Cooper, accommodating adults, although for a restricted length.
Whereas the Aceman could also be labeled as "huge" for a Mini, it would not precisely measure up when it comes to total measurement. Nonetheless, its design is extra palatable than that of the Countryman, retaining hints of the Mini allure. For many who choose a Mini with a standard really feel, the Mini Cooper SE (one other electrical variant) remains to be a powerful selection.
On the subject of driving dynamics, the Aceman delivers higher dealing with than the Countryman, but it surely falls in need of the responsiveness anticipated from a traditional Mini Cooper. The problem with heavier autos—just like the Aceman, which weighs 1.6 tonnes—is that they compromise some pleasure. With a 0-100 km/h time of seven.1 seconds, the pace might not be thrilling, though the sporty electrical torque offers a fast begin and stable acceleration elsewhere.
Regardless of its heft, the Aceman does supply pleasurable steering and stability in tight turns, with much less torque steer and wheelspin than one may anticipate in a automobile of this measurement.
General, the Mini Aceman presents a enjoyable driving expertise, notably for individuals who discover conventional Minis too cramped. Whereas it impressed me greater than I anticipated, I nonetheless discover it lacks the enjoyment of the traditional two-door Cooper.
Score: 3.5/5.0
2025 Mini Aceman Specs:
Value: $60,990 (plus on-road prices)
Fundamentals: Electrical automobile, 5 seats, 5 doorways, compact SUV, front-wheel drive
Vary: 406 km (WLTP)
Battery Capability: 49.2 kWh
Battery Guarantee: 8 years
Power Consumption: 14.1 kWh per 100 km
Motors: One asynchronous motor on the entrance axle, 160kW/330Nm
AC Charging: 11 kW Kind 2 plug
DC Charging: 95 kW CCS combo plug
0-100 km/h: 7.1 seconds
