2022 MINI COOPER SE FIRST DRIVE AND REVIEW

EV Channels Review

The 2022 Mini Cooper SE is presented as a "street-legal go-kart," and the review largely confirms this exhilarating, albeit niche, driving experience. The primary drawback highlighted is its limited range (around 114 miles EPA, with real-world figures showing a significant drop, especially in sport mode or with AC use), making it unsuitable for long-distance travel. The reviewers emphasize its suitability as a city commuter or a secondary vehicle. Positives include its fun-to-drive nature, sharp handling, and quirky, distinctive interior design with unique plaid seating and a functional, albeit dated, infotainment system. The one-pedal driving is praised for its tuning. However, the lack of modern driver aids like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring, along with a relatively slow 50 kW fast charging capability, are noted as significant omissions for a 2022 model. The ride is described as firm and noisy, partly attributed to the snow tires fitted during the test, which also impacted traction.