MINI Aceman – John Cooper Works

More than 60 years after the exploits of the classic MINIs in competition, the JCW emblem is no longer reserved for the track. It has extended across the range, symbolising a MINI that is sportier, more expressive and more playful than the standard models. Now, for the first time, the JCW badge appears on a 100% electric urban crossover.

Assertive JCW DNA

In terms of design, the Aceman JCW makes a bold statement with its closed grille framed in glossy black, highlighted by large air intakes optimised to channel airflow to the electric motor and battery. The headlights abandon the traditional round Cooper style in favour of a more modern shape, featuring new darkened Matrix LED projectors with a welcome animation that adds drama at every startup.

The profile is enhanced by widened side skirts, a contrasting roof, and an extended rear spoiler, giving it a compact yet athletic look. Aerodynamic 19-inch wheels reveal powerful red front brake callipers while also improving brake ventilation and reducing drag. Dark window surrounds and tinted rear glass further emphasize the squat stance, while JCW badges and red accents leave no doubt about its sporting heritage. At the back, an integrated diffuser optimises airflow, helping squeeze out a few extra kilometres of range.

Between Sport and Technology

Inside, the Aceman JCW remains unmistakably  a MINI: original, minimalist, and modern. The centrepiece is a 24 cm circular OLED display in the middle of the dashboard, combining instrumentation, multimedia, and trip data in an intuitive interface. Powered by the new MINI OS 9, it offers personalised experiences through multiple driving modes.

The Go-Kart mode, a JCW signature, transforms the cabin with exclusive graphics, dynamic colours, a sharper steering response and a more reactive accelerator pedal.

Sports seats with electric adjustment and memory provide excellent lateral support, upholstered in a fabric-leather mix with red stitching, perfectly matched to the three-spoke sport steering wheel with a Boost button. Hard plastics remain in some places, but MINI offsets this with copper-coloured inserts and an exclusive 3D JCW fabric on the doors, dashboard and centre console.

Despite compact dimensions (4.08 m long, 1.75 m wide, 1.51 m high), the Aceman surprises with its space. The rear comfortably accommodates two adults (not three), especially when paired with the optional panoramic roof (€3,452). The 300-liter trunk includes a compartment for charging cables. Four USB-C ports and a full suite of driver aids (head-up display, adaptive cruise control, 360° camera, parking assist, etc.) round out the package.

Instant Power

Under the hood, the Aceman JCW houses a 190 kW (258 hp) permanent-magnet synchronous motor delivering 350 Nm of torque. A Boost paddle on the steering wheel adds an extra 20 kW when needed. Like all EVs, power delivery is instantaneous, giving the Aceman a lively character. Traction is well-managed, with minimal wheelspin even during hard launches. The sprint from 0 to 100 km/h takes 6.4 seconds.

The 49.2 kWh battery (usable capacity) features liquid cooling to ensure consistent performance even after repeated acceleration. MINI has refined regenerative braking with several selectable levels. In D mode, adaptive regeneration adjusts based on traffic conditions and following distance, while B mode allows one-pedal driving with customisable settings. Up to 95 kW DC → 10–80% in ~30 minutes. 11 kW AC → full charge in 5h30 on a wall plug. WLTP range is 345 km, which translates to about 280–300 km in mixed driving, and less under spirited driving.

Typical MINI Agility

The Aceman JCW uses MINI’s new dedicated EV platform, tuned by the JCW engineers with lowered sports suspension, specific dampers, reinforced anti-roll bars and a multi-link rear axle.

Combined with a low centre of gravity thanks to the underfloor battery, handling is precise, agile and kart-like. Directional accuracy in corners is surgical, delivering the kind of driving fun MINI fans expect. The trade-off? Firm suspension that can feel harsh on rough roads, making it less comfortable for sensitive backs.

Braking is an equally serious business with this model, with large, ventilated discs up front and four-piston red callipers ensuring endurance and confidence whether on a spirited drive or in emergency braking.

Conclusion

The MINI John Cooper Works Aceman successfully transposes JCW’s racing DNA into a fully electric universe. Lively, well-built, connected and stylish, it will appeal to enthusiasts of dynamic driving in urban and suburban settings. Its weaknesses lie in its limited range on longer trips, its ride comfort and a starting price of €44,044. But for those seeking a fun-to-drive electric crossover with true MINI character, it’s a compelling package.