Nice looks, shame about the ride

Mini has always been proud of the “go-kart” feeling in its cars. Keen to make the JCW Electric the same, it has a lowered suspension set-up and slightly sharper handling. The steering is pleasant and weighty.

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Accelerating hard does generate torque steer as the front wheels struggle to manage direction and power. Get on the power and the it scrabbles around looking for the best way forward. On the plus side, this sensation adds a level of involvement to the experience.

But the ride feels too firm for a road car. And on our surfaces it searches out the tiniest imperfections.

HOW DOES IT LOOK?

We feel for Mini - go too radical with styling and it's out of turn with heritage, play it too safe and things look too similar to before.