Mat’s Car of the Day: a used Mini Electric is an affordable way to go electric in style
Car changing is a big deal
If you’re after a small electric car with bags of character, the Mini Electric fits the bill. It’s pretty affordable as a new car, but it’s even more of a bargain on the used market.
There are many ways to measure how good a car is. You could compare prices, value for money, practicality, comfort or performance – however some cars are more than just a sum of their parts.
Take the Mini Electric as an example. It may not be the perfect small electric car, but it has a certain charm and character which just makes you want it. I spent a week testing the Mini Electric, and here are three reasons I’d consider this if I was after a fun EV – as well as three drawbacks to consider.
Remember, you can buy a brand new or used car right here on Carwow. And you can sell your car, too. We’re here to help you through every step of your car-changing journey.
Three reasons I love the Mini Electric
1. It looks great
The Mini is one of the most instantly-recognisable cars on the road. With its retro styling and customisable lighting details, it just looks so desirable. There are also loads of personalisation options, so whether you’re after a sporty-looking hatchback or a more classy vibe, there’s a Mini to suit you.
2. The interior is lovely
That cool design theme continues on the inside, because the Mini’s cabin looks like no other car on the market. That huge circular screen is a homage to the central speedometer in the original Mini, and you can get all sorts of funky fabrics on the dashboard.
3. It’s good fun to drive
Electric cars are usually not all that entertaining to drive thanks to their heavy batteries, but the Mini Electric can put a smile on your face through the bends. It has really sharp steering and a sporty suspension setup which makes it feel really agile. Even the basic cars are great fun.
Mini Electric used deals and prices
One of the main drawbacks to the Mini Electric is the price, because at almost £27,000 it is quite expensive for a small car. If you’re looking to save a bit of cash, there are some great used deals available now through Carwow.
My favourite Mini Electric model is the SE Sport, because it has the most powerful 218hp motor and some aggressive-looking styling upgrades. This car will cost you £33,700 new, but I’ve found a 2024 example through Carwow for just £26,000. That’s a saving of more than 20%.
It’s got less than 7,000 miles on the clock, and this car is fitted with the Level 1 pack. This means it has heated front seats, a head-up display, keyless entry and power folding mirrors. I reckon this is a proper bargain.
Three annoying things about the Mini Electric
As much as I like the Mini Electric, it’s not perfect. Here are three annoying things to consider before buying one.
1. It’s not very practical
Even by small car standards, the Mini Electric is hopelessly impractical. The rear seats are only really suitable for kids, or adults you don’t like very much, and the 210-litre boot is about two-thirds of the size you get in the Peugeot E-208.
2. Other electric cars are more comfortable
There’s a trade-off for that sporty handling, and it’s stiffness over bumps. The little Mini never feels quite settled over broken surfaces, which can get tiring on long journeys. A Renault 5 is a more relaxing small EV to drive.
3. Clunky infotainment system
That circular touchscreen may look cool, but in practice it is a bit fiddly to use. All the climate controls are buried in the menus, and when you’re using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto it opens in an awkward-looking rectangular window in the middle.
But I can forgive the Mini for these drawbacks, because it’s just got so much character. It makes you want one, and that’s important to me.
Car change? Carwow!
Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.
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