MINI
has begun accepting orders for the 2020 Cooper SE in the United States. While the model won’t arrive until March,
the company said more than 15,000 people have already expressed interest in the
upcoming electric vehicle.
Besides
kicking off the ordering process, MINI released detailed pricing information.
The entry-level Cooper SE Signature starts at US$ 29,900 and comes nicely equipped
with LED headlights, rain sensing wipers and 16-inch alloy wheels.
Inside,
drivers will find a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, heated front
seats and leatherette upholstery. Other highlights include a digital instrument
cluster, a dual zone automatic climate control system and a 6.5-inch
infotainment system with GPS navigation and Apple CarPlay compatibility.
In
terms of tech, the Cooper SE Signature has a pedestrian warning system, a
rearview camera and an active driving assistant with forward collision warning.
The model also has cruise control and Comfort Access keyless entry. The US$ 33,900
Signature Plus adds power folding mirrors, a panoramic moonroof, rear park
distance control and larger 17-inch wheels. The cabin also gains an auto
dimming rearview mirror, a universal garage door opener and a Harman-Kardon
audio system.
The
range-topping Cooper SE Iconic starts at US$ 36,900 and includes a special
steering wheel, an 8.8-inch infotainment system and a head-up display. Other
features include front park distance control, a wireless smartphone charger and
special floor mats.
Regardless
of which trim level is selected, all have a 32.6 kWh lithium-ion battery pack
that powers a front electric motor that produces 181 hp and 270 Nm of torque. This enables the hatchback to accelerate from
0-96 km/h in 6.9 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 150
km/h.
While
those specs aren’t bad, MINI believes the car will only have a range of 177 km. That means owners should expect to recharge the battery pretty
often and thankfully that process doesn’t take very long. With a Level 2 home
charger, the battery can be replenished in approximately four hours. If you
don’t have that long, a 50 kW DC rapid charger can give you an 80% charge in
just 40 minutes.
Customers
who are interested in the Cooper SE can place their order here for a US$ 500
deposit.
