WITH a strict 999-unit run, only 150 of which will be coming to the UK, the MINI Electric Convertible will be something of a rarity. And at 52,500, it would likely have stayed that way, even if it had been put into full series production. So this MINI Electric Convertible is more of an appetiser for the world of open-top MINI EV motoring.
Under the skin, the new Convertible features the same basic powertrain as the hard-top, with a 181bhp electric motor powering the front wheels. Performance is spritely, rather than sporty, with 62mph reached in 8.2 seconds; that’s nearly a second down on the standard electric hatch, due to a hefty 1,470kg kerbweight.
The extra weight comes as a result of combining the electric powertrain with the added strengthening required for the Convertible bodystyle. However, as is the case with the electric hatch, the 269Nm of torque delivered by its e-motor is available from a standstill, so the car feels quicker on the road than the numbers suggest.
This story is from the May 10, 2023 edition of Auto Express.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the May 10, 2023 edition of Auto Express.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
GR86 concept salutes Toyota rally heritage
TOYOTA has revealed a one-off concept at the 2024 Specialty Equipment Marketing Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas.
MINI COUNTRYMAN
Hey MINI, you're a smash hit with grown-ups and little ones alike
CITROEN C5 AIRCROSS
Hybrid technology isn't new, but it has been improved over the years, thankfully
BARGAIN HUNT
The new Dacia Duster and MC ZS are the UK's cheapest small SUVs. Which makes more sense in hybrid form?
WORLD OF VOLVO
We make a trip to Sweden to visit Volvo's new museum and experience centre in Gothenberg
Audi RS Q8
FIRST DRIVE We put updated flagship version of brand's range-topping SUV through its paces on road and track
BMW M135
FIRST DRIVE Hot hatch's facelift brings mechanical tweaks to help it keep up with refreshed competition snapping at its heels
Volkswagen ID.7 Tourer
FIRST DRIVE Large EV estate has the space that families and business drivers crave, but a big battery isn't always good news
Dacia Spring
FIRST UK DRIVE The UK's cheapest EV is made for life in the city, but how does it fare everywhere else? We get behind the wheel
All-new Renault Clio spotted for the first time
The 2025 supermini will be a hybrid-powered alternative to the just-launched all-electric R5