Abarth 500e vs Mini Cooper SE: The Battle of Electric Hot Hatches
Introduction
Electric cars have become the new frontier in the automotive industry. However, not everyone is ready to embrace radical-looking starships. Many buyers prefer something more familiar and comforting. That’s where the Abarth 500e and Mini Cooper SE come in. These electric vehicles have been developed to provide a sense of familiarity for those transitioning from their petrol-powered predecessors. In this article, we will compare the Abarth 500e and Mini Cooper SE to determine if electric hot hatches have finally become a viable concept.
Background
Before diving into the comparison, let’s take a closer look at the Abarth 500e and Mini Cooper SE. The Abarth 500e is a charming and compact electric vehicle that offers a fun driving experience. On the other hand, the Mini Cooper SE is a more rounded and thoroughly developed car with a longer electric range. Both vehicles have their unique features and characteristics that make them appealing to different types of drivers.
Electric Range
When it comes to electric range, the Mini Cooper SE takes the lead. With a full charge, it can travel up to 200 miles, providing drivers with more room to breathe. The Abarth 500e, on the other hand, offers a range of about 140 miles. While the Abarth falls short in terms of range, it still provides a decent driving experience for those looking for a compact electric vehicle.
Interior
The interior of the Mini Cooper SE exudes a small premium car feel, offering a more luxurious experience compared to the Abarth 500e. The Mini Cooper SE features a simplified design with high-quality materials and a comfortable driving position. In contrast, the Abarth 500e has a more basic interior with hard plastics and a compromised driving position. While the Abarth uses Alcantara to enhance its interior, it fails to cover up the overall lack of refinement.
Infotainment Systems
Both the Abarth 500e and Mini Cooper SE come with infotainment systems, but the Mini Cooper SE’s system stands out. The Mini’s infotainment system feels like an integral part of the car, seamlessly integrated into the design philosophy. The Abarth’s system, while functional, lacks the same level of integration and feels like a parts bin screen placed on top of the dashboard.
Driving Dynamics
When it comes to driving dynamics, the Mini Cooper SE outshines the Abarth 500e. The Mini offers a more cohesive driving experience, with smooth deceleration and excellent traction and stability control. It dives into corners eagerly and provides feedback about grip levels, giving drivers a sense of confidence. The Abarth, while fun to drive, lacks the same level of responsiveness and balance. It can feel frustrating to drive smoothly due to its on/off deceleration and limited feedback about grip levels.
Verdict
In conclusion, the Mini Cooper SE emerges as the winner in the battle of electric hot hatches. It combines distinctive looks, competitive electric credentials, and a thrilling driving experience. While the Abarth 500e has its charm and provides a fun driving experience, it falls short in terms of interior quality and driving dynamics. The Mini Cooper SE represents the future of electric hot hatches, carrying the Mini values into the electric era.
Specifications
Here are the specifications of the Abarth 500e and Mini Cooper SE:
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