Test Drive: Mini Cooper SE - Classic British Electric Car Wins Top Marks at TÜV Inspection
British-made Electric Vehicle, Mini Cooper SE, Earns Excellent Ratings: Review Highlights
Let's face it, the Mini Cooper SE doesn't exactly scream "electric car" at first glance. But once you slide behind the wheel, it's clear that this British roadster means business. And the TÜV inspection? It's just as impressive.
The Mini's go-kart feel is iconic, and electrifying it has only made it better. Agility meets electric car acceleration - it's a match made in heaven! Other than a few nitpicky complaints, the Mini's TÜV inspection scoring is pretty much all green.
** History in the Fast Lane**Mini has been tinkering with electric power since the early days, and the BMW-owned automaker officially unveiled the Cooper SE at the IAA 2019. The Cooper SE joined the market in spring 2020 with a starting price of 32,500 euros, barely distinguishable from its combustion engine counterpart.
** Model Evolution**The Cooper SE underwent a facelift in 2021, with a sleeker front end and new features like a matrix high beam and bad weather light. Post-2024, Mini is set to call the updated electric model Mini Cooper Electric, but the Cooper SE is the focus of this TÜV inspection report.
** Room on Board**The traditional Mini comes in five-seater configuration, but the electric Cooper SE is a compact three-seater. With universally positive feedback on their one-off open Mini SE, they've recently unveiled a limited-edition convertible piece for the spring of '23.
** Specs and Stats*** Length: 3.82 to 3.85 meters* Width: 1.73 meters* Height: 1.43 meters* Boot volume: 211 to 731 liters (convertible: 215 liters)
** Strengths and Weaknesses**According to the "Auto Bild TÜV-Report 2025," the Mini Cooper SE aces its suspension, axle attachments, springs, and dampers. The brakes are faultless, and there's no oil loss detected in the reduction gearbox. Critics might point to rare cases of dipped beam and front lighting defects, but other than that, the report is all smiles. Some might argue that the Cooper SE's maximum charging power of 50 kW is outdated, but with a 0-100 km/h time of just over seven seconds, who's complaining?
** Reliability and Resale Value**With low registration numbers, official reliability rates for the Mini Cooper SE are challenging to come by. However, electric cars generally have lower failure rates than their gas-powered counterparts, according to ADAC figures for 2020. As for resale value, dealers are forecasting the following prices for used Cooper SEs based on the German Automobile Trust's Statistically Expected Miles data:
- Classic Trim (2021): €15,733 (47,000 kilometers)
- Convertible (2023): €39,216 (24,000 kilometers)
- XL Trim (2020): €16,356 (58,000 kilometers)
So there you have it - the Mini Cooper SE is a reliable, affordable, and agile choice for electric car enthusiasts, and the TÜV inspections aren't complaining! 🗽 ⚡️
- Used Cars
- Electric Vehicles
- TÜV Inspections
- Mini
- The Mini Cooper SE, despite its traditional appearance, excels in both traditional Mini agility and electric car acceleration, making it appealing to both lifestyle enthusiasts who value technology and gadgets, and those prioritizing energy efficiency in their energy policy.
- The Mini Cooper SE, with its impressive TÜV inspection scores, emphasis on energy efficiency, and sleek design, serves as a testament that electric vehicles can blend seamlessly with community policies that promote sustainable living.
- As Mini continues to evolve its electric models, car enthusiasts might find that the Mini Cooper Electric, set to replace the Cooper SE post-2024, offers an intriguing blend of classic cars, electric vehicles, and cutting-edge technology, further attracting those who value both heritage and innovation.
