The MINI, especially in the John Cooper Works performance version, is an electrifying little car in the figurative sense. Since 2020, it is also literally with the arrival of the fully electric Cooper SE.
It’s an important turn into the future for a brand so steeped in tradition, and it’s just the start. In 2025, the last petrol-only MINI will see the light of day, then by the next decade, the entire range will be entirely battery-powered.
In the meantime, consumers can choose from several powertrains depending on their intended use of the car and their driving preferences. Are you interested in the MINI Cooper 2022? Here’s what you need to know …
Photo: Guillaume Rivard
Look and interior refreshed for 2022
The third generation of the modern MINI gets another update after the 2019 one. Okay, that’s nothing major, but the car is maturing while showing even more originality. We like the redesigned front end with this big black trim that encompasses the grille and the lower air intakes, as well as the addition of a color panel matching the body (formerly black). In the corners, thin triangular aerodynamic openings replace the sidelights, while higher up, LED headlights are now included as standard.
We can ignore the redesigned decorative badges on the fenders, but not the new models of rims available. Our 3-door test model had nice “Tentacle” style wheels, however our favorite is the two-tone “Pulse” pattern set. At the rear, the bumper has been updated for a cleaner look and lights with the British flag motif are standard.
Photo: Guillaume Rivard
Inside, we are delighted by the new steering wheel with its touches that are more modern and easier to use at the same time, as well as the five-inch digital instrumentation that is available behind. The few updated surfaces, controls and vents are welcome, as are the new ambient lighting and display options, but not as much as the 8.8-inch center display with glossy black surround that comes standard. and whose multimedia system has been slightly revised. Connectivity buffs will also appreciate the improved MINI mobile app.
We should add that the “sport” seats included in several versions are well sculpted (not too narrow) and comfortable. A pale coating combined with the optional panoramic roof is a great way not to feel locked in that tiny car that is the MINI 3-door. On the other hand, the lack of electrical adjustments for the driver even in the electric Cooper SE over $ 40,000 is incomprehensible …
Photo: Guillaume Rivard
Gasoline or electric?
On the road, the MINI 2022 essentially retains the formula we already knew. Its handling is healthy, but if you ever find the ride getting rough, pavement defects are easy to avoid with such precise and enjoyable steering.
As the next generation will not arrive before the middle of the decade, we would have liked MINI to increase engine efficiency a little bit for 2022, especially the entry-level one which is still limited to 134 horsepower (but is recovering with 162 lb-ft of torque). However, it is not the case. The 228 hp (236 lb-ft) John Cooper Works and 189 hp (207 lb-ft) Cooper S are still exhilarating options, especially with Sport mode making a big difference.
Photo: Guillaume Rivard
What about the MINI Cooper SE (181 hp, 199 lb-ft) like the one we just tested? Also modernized, it remains exclusively available in 3-door format, which is a shame. We understand the company: this car is designed for singles and couples who live in the city and travel little, hence the presence of a battery of only 32.6 kWh with an official range of 183 kilometers for 2022. , according to Natural Resources Canada. The computer sometimes displayed 191 kilometers after a full charge, but to enjoy it, you have to stay in Green + mode (a lot less fun) and deprive yourself of the air conditioning.
For target customers or families needing a second vehicle, range is not such a big problem. Plugging in the car almost at every stop is still highly recommended – and mandatory in winter.
Another point you should know: it is possible to drive with a single pedal 90% of the time (a very different experience from a MINI with a manual transmission!). Regenerative braking can be adjusted in two levels, the higher being often too abrupt at low speeds. As for the acceleration, it is very linear thanks to the constant torque, but not as dynamic as those of the Cooper S and of course less thrilling to the ears.
Photo: Guillaume Rivard
Verdict
The 2022 MINI Cooper is nicely modernized, while its reliability continues to climb. It’s still a more emotional than a rational buy, especially in the 3-door format with its persistent space and ergonomics shortcomings, but it retains good value and you’ll have a bit of an easier time reselling it. And if the electric version interests you, know that it costs $ 800 less than the Cooper S by applying the government rebates which total $ 13,000 in Quebec.
In video: our test of the electric Mini Copper SE
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