THROUGH THE RANGE
Which trim level might suit you?
Unlike the Honda, which gets different power outputs depending on the trim level, all three of the Mini electric specs get the same output – and Cooper S badges.
Starting with level 1, the most basic version, you get sat-nav, Apple CarPlay, cruise control, leD lights, the digital dash panel and some funky alloy wheels. On the same terms as the Honda (see p43), it’ll cost £277 a month to lease.
Stepping up to level 2 (the car shown in our pictures) adds £35 to the monthly cost (£312), but you also benefit from keyless operation, Mini’s Driving Assistant (which includes AeB), rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera, plus heated seats.
it’s the one we’d go for because, at £384 a month, level 3 adds front parking sensors, matrix leD lights, an upgraded stereo, a head-up display, automatic parking, a panoramic glass roof and a bigger infotainment screen. Some of the kit is useful, but it’s not worth the extra.
Our Choice:
MINI Electric Level 2
IN this sector, eye-catching design is a big selling point, and it’s something that defines both of these cars.
The Honda’s looks could split opinion, and while it’s been tweaked slightly since we first saw it as a concept, the e is still a great piece of design. The clever, minimalist LED headlights and tail-lights, the proportions and the little details manage to combine a retro nod to small Hondas from the past but with a thoroughly modern approach highlighted even more so by the interior design.
The full-width digital dash and the lack of a tunnel in the floor mean the e feels surprisingly spacious in the front; it’s Honda embracing its EV architecture and executing the e’s brief nicely; electric cars don’t require cooling like a petrol or diesel model, so there’s no need for a big front grille.
It’s worth pointing out some practicalities, too. The car’s charging port is located on top of the bonnet panel, with a little button to release the flap. Short overhangs, thanks to the platform, mean it’s easy to get close to a charging point, while there’s also enough length on the charging cables, so hooking the car up should be relatively simple (see more overleaf for information on the incentives each manufacturer is offering).