2009 MINI MINI E - Review

By Eric Loveday

Eric Loveday

Author BIO

Eric Loveday is a car enthusiast with a love for everything automotive. He purchased a 1970 Chevelle at age 16, quickly outgrew its dated engineering... More

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MINI E

A true assessment of a car is not all about the numbers.  As our readers know, our editor-in-chief Lyle Dennis has taken delivery of his own MINI E for a one year lease.  I, on the other hand, have had the opportunity to drive the Cooper S on countless occasions as the vehicle sits in my garage on a nightly basis.  A real world test pits cars against each other and this is our goal.  So here it is, the MINI E takes on the Mini Cooper S.

The S is one toss able vehicle.  It's lively and the chassis is well sorted.  It sticks around corners with the g force of a Corvette ZO6 and is supremely fun to drive.  In everyday driving, it returns about 32 mpg while still providing instant acceleration and an exhilarating driving experience. 

One of the pitfalls of the S is the formidable torque steer.  Equipped with summer tires and 17 inch rims, the S tugs tenaciously at the wheel under power.  Certainly front wheel drive is pushed to the limit at this horsepower level and at times, the torque steer dominates the driving experience.  The ride can become punishing at times with the optional 17 inch rims, but that's the penalty you must pay for increased grip. There is noticeable throttle delay off of the line, but you do get used to it.  The brakes are extremely touchy in slow driving and also take a little adjustment to driver input. 

On the inside, the S excels in flexibility.  With fold down rear seats and a hatchback body style, you can comfortably fit many items inside.  With the seats up, 4 adult sized people can ride in decent comfort.  Materials and fit and finish are sub par at this price, but acceptable.