By Mabuyane Mabuza
When MINI launched the Countryman in South Africa back in 2010, a colleague at my old job didn’t seem to approve. He remarked: “This car doesn’t look anything like a Mini!” before turning to me for my thoughts. It was different, right! By then, Mini was on a streak with the Clubman already running on our streets and not doing
badly.
Recently, I had the honour of joining MINI South Africa for the launch of their latest
addition—the all-new MINI Aceman. And this time, there was no confusion, it looks and feels unmistakably like a MINI. The designers have struck the perfect balance between practicality and the brand’s signature character.
The Aceman stays true to MINI’s tradition of compact, stylish cars that deliver a fun, exhilarating drive. I have no doubt, my former colleague would have given it an instant nod. I might not be the target market, but I couldn’t help appreciating the Aceman’s effortless driving dynamics.
Exterior design
Unlike the Countryman, the Aceman embraces MINI’s signature “toy car” charm the brand is known for. With its sporty, dynamic design, the Aceman is sure to turn heads on the road.
The iconic MINI styling is evident in every detail, from its signature round headlights to the distinctive grille and compact proportions. It also features a unique roofline, which gives it a more aggressive and sportier stance that sets it apart from the rest of the MINI range.
Interior design
For a compact car, the Aceman’s interior is surprisingly spacious. The front seats
provide generous headroom and legroom, ensuring a comfortable ride, while the rear seats are perfectly fine for adults on shorter trips. Even the boot is impressively
practical, offering ample space for groceries, luggage, or even a gym bag and sports
gear for those with an active lifestyle.
Stepping into the Aceman, my first impression was a delightful blend of style,
comfort, and practicality. Whether you’re zipping around town or setting off on a road trip, there’s ample legroom and a sense of ease that makes every journey enjoyable.
One of the most exciting aspects of the MINI Aceman’s interior is its retro-inspired design. The circular theme seen on the exterior flows seamlessly inside, with round air vents, a circular centre console, and a classic three-spoke steering wheel. This subtle nod to MINI’s heritage adds a nostalgic charm to the modern cabin, striking the perfect balance between past and present.
Technology
The MINI Aceman is packed with tech features designed to enhance the driving
experience. Its infotainment system is user-friendly and responsive, with a crisp,
easy-to-read display. Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, and seamless smartphone
integration all come as standard, ensuring you stay connected effortlessly while on
the move.
The Drive
The MINI Aceman isn’t just about style, it delivers an impressive performance,
thanks to its fully electric motor. Instant torque ensures brisk acceleration and a
responsive, engaging drive. With zero emissions and a range of approximately 305
kilometers in the Aceman E which comes with a 42.5kWh battery and about 406 km
on Aceman SE, from its 54.2 battery, on a single charge, proving that fun and
sustainability can go hand in hand. However, these figures will also depend on an individual’s driving style and will be lower if one is heavy-footed.
Pricing:
R800 000 gets you the Aceman E, while the SE models go for R892 000
