Mini’s cars have certainly grown over the years, with there being no comparison between the one Mr Bean drove and the current one. The Cooper is the best-known model, but the range also includes SUVs like the Aceman and Countryman.
The focus here is on the former, which is the latest model to be launched out of the BMW/Mini stable in South Africa. Not only is it a brand-new model, but it’s also a fully electric vehicle. The Aceman isn't Mini's first all-electric vehicle - that honour belongs to the Cooper SE which was launched in 2020, but it is the brand's first all-electric crossover.
The Aceman is positioned between the Cooper and Countryman models locally and there are two derivatives available: the E and SE.
Contemporary motion
The interior is a very sleek, contemporary affair. Sections like the doors and dashboard are covered in woven fabric, while the rounded OLED display (which features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity) is the hub of everything. Some of the features include ambient lighting, a panoramic glass roof and Harman Kardon sound system.
The Aceman has a boot capacity of 300-litres, which can be expanded to over 1 000-litres with the rear seats folded down.
How does it drive?
Charger, no turbocharger
The entry-level E’s 42.5 kWh battery has a claimed range of 305km while producing 135kW and 290Nm. The more performance-orientated SE has a larger 54.2 kWh battery pack, a claimed range of 406km and outputs of 160kW and 330Nm.
The Aceman's DC fast-charging capabilities means it can charge from 10 to 80% in just 29 minutes for the E and 31 minutes for the SE. Keep in mind that those are claimed figures from the automaker and not necessarily what we tested in real-life conditions.
Translated into on-road performance, the E can run from 0-100km/h in 7.9-seconds and the SE does so in 7.1-seconds. Even though the Aceman is electric, its purpose isn’t to break speed records and so doesn’t offer particularly mind-blowing performance, with the preference being for longer range instead.
We got to experience both derivatives, with the SE being the standout due to its punchier performance. The handling and steering, coupled with the instantaneous acceleration, makes the hatchback feel like a roadworthy go-kart which is quite fun. Overall, it offers a very comfortable and solid drive even in treacherous road conditions.
The cabin is compact and there’s even various driving modes that mimic engine or exhaust noises audible through the in-car speakers. It is a case of point and accelerate and the Aceman goes there, even with it being a crossover.
We played around with the eight driving modes which are activated via a toggle switch on the centre console. Some of the options/modes include Personal, Vivid, Timeless, Go Kart and Green. Which one you choose up to how you're feeling, and you can set the mood in the cabin to suit you.
This is the type of car you buy if most of your driving is going to be in and around the city, with occasional longer drives on the weekend. The cabin is compact and the seating comfortable.
Regarding rivals, the Aceman competes directly against Volvo’s EX30 SUV, which is priced from R835 500.
Spec, pricing and aftersales
Aceman E - R800 000
Aceman SE - R892 000
It is sold with a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan, a 2-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and an 8-year/100 000km battery warranty.
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