2024 MINI Cooper SE: A New Era of Electric Fun

The evolution of the MINI Cooper SE has sparked conversations among enthusiasts and casual drivers alike. Having previously experienced the F56-based MINI Cooper SE, which was a delightful fusion of electric efficiency and spirited driving, I approached the new 2024 model with eager anticipation. While the latest iteration boasts significant advancements in range and performance, it also reveals a shift in driving dynamics that leaves some nostalgic for its predecessor.

Power and Performance: A Mixed Bag

The 2024 MINI Cooper SE, built on a new platform, comes equipped with a powerful electric motor delivering 218 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque. In contrast to the earlier F56 model, which utilized a less powerful setup (184 hp and 199 lb-ft), the new car weighs in at nearly 1.7 tons (around 3,700 pounds) compared to the F56’s 1.44 tons (approximately 3,175 pounds). This additional weight may dampen the immediate thrill of acceleration that the older model provided. While the new Cooper SE achieves a quicker 0-62 mph time of 6.7 seconds, it often feels restrained at lower speeds, as if the power is held back until the vehicle gathers momentum.

Driving the 2024 model is undoubtedly efficient, with its performance translating into quicker charging and a longer range, alleviating the anxiety of needing to stop for a charge on longer trips. However, for those who enjoyed the spirited, engaging drive of the F56, the new model’s more subdued acceleration and electronic limitations can feel like a compromise.

Design and Comfort: A Stylish Upgrade

One of the standout features of the 2024 Cooper SE is its design. With a longer wheelbase (99.5 inches compared to 98.2 inches) and a wider track, the new model has a more planted appearance that enhances its presence on the road. The smooth, monolithic design is a departure from the more intricate aesthetics of its predecessor, favoring simplicity and elegance. The sleek 18-inch wheels complement the overall look, and the new rear light design—though polarizing—adds a contemporary flair.

Inside, the MINI Cooper SE J01 offers an engaging, tech-savvy environment with one of the coolest infotainment screens in the market. The cabin is well-equipped and user-friendly, making daily commutes enjoyable.

The Driving Experience: A Shift in Dynamics

Driving the new J01, I found the steering to be a significant point of departure from the F56. The previous model featured sharp, responsive steering that provided a direct connection to the road—almost telepathic in its feedback. In contrast, the J01’s steering, while still precise, felt more inert and less engaging. This lack of feedback can lead to a driving experience that feels more detached, even if the car remains accurate in its handling.

Despite these differences, the J01 excels in many aspects as an electric vehicle. It offers around 70% more range per charge, faster charging times, and a more refined suspension that improves ride quality compared to its predecessor. Yet, enthusiasts might find themselves reminiscing about the joy of driving the electric F56, which remains one of the most engaging front-wheel-drive EVs to date.

Future Prospects and Final Thoughts

Currently, the J01 MINI Cooper SE is not slated for release in North America until production begins at the UK plant in 2026. By that time, it is expected to receive a mid-lifecycle refresh that could reintroduce some of the driving fun that enthusiasts have come to love.

In summary, the 2024 MINI Cooper SE marks a significant step forward in terms of electric vehicle technology, offering a practical and user-friendly experience. It’s better equipped for everyday driving, with improved range and modern features that make it appealing to a broader audience. However, for those who crave the spirited and engaging driving dynamics of the F56, the new model may feel like it has lost some of its soul. Ultimately, the new Cooper SE is an excellent choice for tech-savvy drivers seeking a reliable and stylish electric vehicle, but the electric F56 will always hold a special place in the hearts of driving enthusiasts.