MINI Aceman Reviewed – A Playful Driving Experience in a Larger, More Rugged Format

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The first Mini Aceman reviews from the European press are in, and the praise for MINI’s smallest crossover to date is consistent. However, it appears not everything is perfect. Could factors like price, battery tech, and competition—particularly from the Volvo EX30—overshadow the positives? Here’s a look at what’s being said.

What is the MINI Aceman and How Does it Fit Into the MINI Line-up?

The Aceman is an electric compact crossover based on the J01 Cooper that effectively is a smaller, more rugged looking version of the petrol five door MINI Cooper. Given that it’s nearly the same size it has similar traits as the 5 door; MINI-like handling with a cramped back seat. But for those who want their cars small (it’s a MINI right?) the Aceman fills the gap left by the Countryman as it’s gotten larger over three generations.

Like the J01 electric Cooper, it comes in two flavors; E and SE. The E version is equipped with a 42.5 kWh battery that offers up to 192 miles of range, reaching 0-62 mph in 7.9 seconds. Meanwhile, the SE sports a 54.2 kWh battery with a range of approximately 252 miles and accelerates to 62 mph in 7.1 seconds.

Both will be initially manufactured in China by a joint venture between BMW and Great Wall Motors before UK production begins in 2026. Due to this Chinese tariffs, the Aceman is not sold in North America however we expect MINI to revisit that decision when UK production begins.

The MINI Aceman Reviews

Let’s start with Autocar, a stalwart in the automotive press. They summarize the Aceman by calling it “a distinctive blend of retro design and modern tech. It maintains MINI’s signature playful character, with a few unique quirks, but also delivers on practicality for city driving. It’s the one you go for if you rather like the electric MINI Cooper hatchback, but you can’t live with its slightly restrictive three-door layout.

Top Gear describes the Aceman fitting snugly between the classic Mini Cooper and the Countryman. This positioning, they note, makes it ideal for those seeking a blend of traditional Mini charm with added space and electric efficiency. They mention that the ride is too firm and you’ll need to spend some time with the interior to decide whether it’s for you, but “we reckon Mini has done a decent job of injecting plenty of tech in there while retaining some personality. It is let down by some confusing menus and that hugely chunky steering wheel though.”

Electrifying highlights the Aceman’s fresh, compact design and its commitment to the Mini driving feel despite its modern upgrades. They commend the Aceman for staying compact compared to competitors, noting that many vehicles grow larger with each generation. In their eyes the Aceman has maintained the Cooper’s nimble “go-kart” feel, which keeps it playful and appealing for urban environments. They also appreciated the interior’s use of recycled materials and the practical five-seat configuration, which marks it as family-friendly yet still trendy and sustainable.

Car Magazine sees the Aceman as a distinctive entry in the EV crossover space, applauding its design that is both “bold” and unmistakably Mini. They emphasize the Aceman’s role as a pure EV, making it the first Mini crossover on the new EV only a new-generation platform. The in-vehicle tech features, and battery performance (they projected to achieve over 250 miles of range) were particularly appreciated. Car Magazine calls it a welcome addition to the Mini family, especially for fans looking to transition into electric driving without sacrificing character or flair.

Carbuyer: “MINI has managed to inject an impressive amount of character into the Aceman. The OLED display, toggle switches, and customizable Experience Modes create an immersive cabin environment, though the interface takes some getting used to” .

The Independent: “While the Aceman may lack the outright space of some rivals, it compensates with MINI’s unmatched styling and a well-balanced driving experience that makes it a strong urban electric vehicle” .

Sgcarmart: “Despite not being a speed demon, the Aceman SE’s 215bhp delivers enough punch to make city driving enjoyable. Its compact size and predictable handling make it feel lively and engaging” .

5. T3: “The Aceman combines the iconic MINI look with a futuristic twist, especially in the cabin. However, its modest range and charging speed make it best suited for urban adventures” 

The MotoringFile Take

Because we’re based in North America, MINI doesn’t believe we should get a shot at the Aceman or the new Cooper EV—despite over half of our audience being outside North America. So, we’ll have to piece together insights from reviews and a few trusted sources who’ve driven the Aceman.

The Aceman is clearly a fresh take on the five-door MINI Cooper, featuring chunky, crossover-inspired styling. It shares the direct handling and overall driving experience of the J01 Cooper, though its compact size limits its appeal. The back seats, for instance, don’t seem suited for three adults, and even the front doors restrict entry angles, posing a challenge for taller buyers.

Then there’s the battery tech. Like the J01, the Aceman’s range is average, and its charging speed lags behind newer EV models. Still, the Mini Aceman strikes a good balance of range, efficiency, and MINI’s unique design ethos, making it an attractive option for young families looking to go all-electric.

MINI Aceman Video Reviews

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