With a longer wheelbase than the previous-generation Cooper, the new series is the roomiest Mini hatch ever. Most of the usual brand cabin tropes are present - upright pillars, a big circular central display, toggle switches and ambient lighting, within a fairly sparse dashboard look.

This time, Mini has concentrated on simplifying most functions within the 240mm (9.4-inch) central OLED display. It takes a moment to familiarise, but once that's done, the multimedia system is fast, easy and logical to use. Other attributes include superb front seats, a good driving position aided by a multi-adjustable steering column, sufficient storage, ample all-round vision (except for that thick middle pillar by the driver) and effective ventilation.

But access to the two rear seating positions is limited by a narrow aperture and slow-moving electric seats, while the backrest is a bit upright for some people. There's okay levels of space even for taller adults over shorter distances, but it isn't ideal overall. There are few amenities. The other bad point is the glass roof, that does not come with any cover, meaning occupants are prone to lots of glare. Otherwise, the new electric Cooper's interior is stylish, modern, functional and high quality.

The Cooper Electric is built on a 400V dedicated vehicle architecture, and has a synchronous permanent magnet electric motor under the bonnet. In the Cooper E it produces 135kW and 290Nm, while the sportier SE’s corresponding figures are 160kW and 330Nm. The front wheels are driven via a single-speed reduction gear transmission.

All Mini Cooper electric vehicles feature autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with lane-support systems, adaptive cruise control, exit warning, a surround-view camera, a sports steering wheel, heated sports seats up front, a panoramic glass roof, LED headlights, keyless entry/start, a head-up display, wireless charging, ambient lighting, digital radio, Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ‘Hey, Mini’ voice control, augmented-reality satellite navigation, 'Mini Connected Services' (via 5G connectivity) and 18-inch alloy wheels. This is the Classic spec, as available on the Cooper E.

Stepping up to the sportier and more powerful Cooper SE adds niceties like Harman Kardon 10-speaker audio, John Cooper Works front seats with electric adjustment and memory for the driver, sun-protection glazing and classier cabin trimmings.

The Mini Cooper is a four-seater, with a pair of bucket seats up front and a rear bench with a 60/40 split in the back. While the front ones have electric adjustment, the rears are fixed.

The Mini Cooper E needs 7.3 seconds to zoom from standstill to 100km/hon the way to a top speed of 160km, while the Cooper SE has a 0-100km/h sprint time of 6.7 seconds and can make it to 170km/h.