Are you considering making the switch to an electric vehicle, but most models seem too big or expensive? Well two fun and affordable options have recently hit the market – the 2022 Mini Cooper SE and 2023 Chevy Bolt EV. These small electric hatchbacks combine green credibility with pint-sized packaging.
But which one best fits your needs and lifestyle? With so many differences between the retro-modern Mini SE and value-packed Bolt EV, picking the right model can get confusing. No worries – we‘ll cover all the key facts to help you decide!
Brief Histories: Mini Goes Electric
Before diving into the details, let‘s take a quick look back at what brought these electric cars to life. Most know Mini as the maker of stylish and nimble small hatchbacks for over 60 years. When parent company BMW decided to electrify the brand, they started by converting the iconic 2-door Cooper model into the all-electric Cooper SE in 2019.
It launched in the US for 2020, targeting city dwellers wanting a premium driving experience with zero emissions. Being a Mini, fun handling and personalization options took priority over range. The company also unveils unique special editions annually, like the quirky Resolute model with roof contours mimicking nearby Aspen ski slopes.
Of course Chevrolet is no stranger to EVs either, selling over a million battery-powered cars so far globally. When the Bolt EV first arrived in 2016, it stood out with its affordable price tag and generous driving range. For 2023 Chevy engineers have updated the interior, expanded safety tech availability, and even lowered the base MSRP. Clearly this pragmatic people-mover puts purpose above style.
Now that you know where these electrified hatchbacks came from, let‘s see how they compare across all key purchase considerations!
Driving Performance and Handling Dynamics
Few cars can put a smile on your face like a Mini, thanks to its responsive steering and incredible cornering grip. MotorTrend described pushing the Mini SE hard through the canyon roads above Malibu as "one of the most enjoyable drives" of any EV. The low-slung 3,050 pound curb weight and firm suspension tuning pay huge dividends when roads turn twisty.
You‘ll find pleasingly quick acceleration too – the SE sprints from 0-60 mph in just 6.9 seconds according to Car & Driver testing. Credit its 181 horsepower electric motor and 199 lb-ft of instant torque for the brisk feeling. Braking performance stands out as well, with a predictable, progressive pedal feel.
Sure, the 3,679 pound Chevy Bolt EV prioritizes efficiency over driving thrills. But handling still impresses experts given its tall, narrow body style. Road & Track called the Bolt "surprisingly agile", enjoying responsiveness from its direct steering. Ride quality stays smooth and controlled without ever feeling floaty. Performance feels more sprightly than its 200 horsepower rating suggests.
- Advantage: Mini Cooper SE
Interior Space, Comfort and Cargo Flexibility
The Mini Cooper SE only seats 4 passengers in its tight cockpit. Getting into the rear bench means folding down the front seatbacks first. And headroom is frankly nonexistent for anyone over 5‘ 8" back there. Surprisingly the trunk rates as average among tiny subcompacts, swallowing 7.6 cubic feet of cargo with the second row intact.
Now slide behind the Bolt EV‘s steering wheel and its expansive greenhouse opens up your sightlines. This electric hatchback easily fits 5 adults with ample room. Clever packaging yields 16.6 cubic feet for luggage behind the second row – on par with bigger compact crossovers! The deep front trunk adds valuable overflow space as well.
Reviewers do knock both EVs for cheaper-looking plastic interior finishes however. The Bolt has received some nicer textures and contrast stitching for 2023, but the cabin still looks pretty basic. And Mini‘s stale 5.5" main instrument display is showing its age next to the Bolt‘s vibrant 10.2" digital gauge cluster.
- Advantage: Chevy Bolt EV
Range, Charging Speed and Efficiency
For any electric vehicle range sits at the top of buyers‘ must-have features. Here the 2023 Chevy Bolt EV easily bests the Mini Cooper SE with an EPA-rated 259 miles distance per full charge. Owners seem to regularly match or even exceed that figure in mixed driving conditions. Only on long freeway drives at 75+ mph does the Bolt‘s remaining range fall faster.
The Mini SE‘s smaller battery pack inevitably limits traveling distance between charging stops. EPA test cycles peg its range at just 110 miles. Owners report typically driving about 80-100 miles between plug-ins. On one hand that should suffice for urban commuting duty. But take the Mini SE out on the highway and you‘ll be recharging multiple times over 200+ miles.
Both models regain range quickly on 240-volt Level 2 charging stations – about 25 miles of extra driving distance per hour. The Bolt also supports faster 55 kW DC fast charging, though Mini dealerships and certified repair centers have access to high-voltage equipment as well.
When comparing efficiency on a cost-per-mile basis, the Chevy Bolt EV consumes 27 kWh per 100 miles driven according to fueleconomy.gov data. That‘s over 10 kWh per 100 miles less than the Mini SE‘s appetite. Charging the Bolt‘s larger battery simply proves more efficient over long distances.
- Advantage: Chevy Bolt EV
Safety Technology, Infotainment and Driver Assistance
Modern high-tech features help keep us safe and connected behind the wheel. Chevrolet provides Bolt EV buyers with plenty of standard equipment: automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist and more all come included. Higher Premier trim models add extras like surround view cameras, blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alerts.
Mini takes a different approach, bundling desirable safety gear into option packages. The $850 Active Driving Assistant package adds adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning and other aids. The $3,000 Iconic Trim Package bundles extras like a head-up display, Harmon Kardon sound and wireless phone charging.
Infotainment systems are comparable, with both electric cars featuring 10+ inch touchscreens supporting Apple CarPlay/Android Auto functionality. Reviewers give Chevy‘s latest user interface high marks for intuitive menus and quick response times. Some find Mini‘s system flashier yet more distracting while driving. Customizable ambient interior lighting offers a nice mood-setting touch in both EVs too.
- Advantage: Tie
Cost of Ownership, Incentives and Value Analysis
Accounting for purchase price, operating costs, incentives and resale value gives us a complete ownership value picture. The Chevy Bolt EV clearly excels in the value metrics – this EV has lowered its MSRP by $5,900 for 2023 while gaining equipment. The base Bolt EV 1LT now stickers for $27,495 including destination charges. Even a loaded Premier tops out just above $32,000.
In contrast, the Mini Cooper SE carries a base price of $33,900. Adding desirable options like a power sunroof, premium sound system and driver assistance tech can quickly inflate the bottom line over $40k. Cost of ownership further separates these two EVs when accounting for the Mini‘s greater power consumption and higher insurance rates.
However both electrics do qualify for a $7,500 federal tax credit plus state incentives where available – potentially chopping up to $15k total from your out-of-pocket purchase price. ALG projects the Bolt will retain over 50% of its original value after 5 years – an average depreciation rate for the segment. Expect a steeper drop in residual values for the niche Mini Cooper SE however.
- Advantage: Chevy Bolt EV
The Verdict: Which Small Electric Car Is Right For You?
At the end of our in-depth evaluation, the 2023 Chevy Bolt EV emerges as the better pick for most shoppers needing an affordable, practical daily commuter with generous 250+ mile range between charging stops. Family road trippers will also appreciate its roomy seating and cargo flexibility. A bevy of standard safety technologies provides peace of mind as well.
But the Mini Cooper SE can‘t be beat for shoppers desiring a more emotional connection with their EV. Its lively performance, go-kart handling and playful personality make every drive an occasion – amplifying the rewards of going electric. Miniphiles will delight in customizing their SE inside and out too. Just know that maximum range takes a backseat to maximizing driving joy here.
For city dwellers solely focused on low-impact urban commuting duty, the Mini SE could prove the ultimate electric car. But expect to get friendly with your local charging stations!
