The pros and cons of driving MINI's 'gorgeous' all-electric Aceman

The ever-popular MINI has gone through a huge transition since the car's launch back in 1959.

The latest addition to the contemporary line-up is the all-electric MINI Aceman.

Motoring journo Melinda Ferguson says that size-wise, it's positioned between the MINI Cooper (8cm longer) and the Countryman (9cm shorter).

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The car comes in two derivatives, with the entry-level Aceman E delivering 135 kW, 290 Nm of torque, and 0-100 km/h in 7.9 seconds.

The Aceman SE provides 160 kW, 330 Nm and gets to 0-100 km/h in 7.1 seconds.

It's apparent that the car is all about sustainability, Feguson says.

She loved the recycled polyester and leather-free surfaces of the interior, and also highlighted the brand's ability to retain the old MINI retro feel while providing super-modernfeatures.

"You have a huge screen providing different experience modes (to transform cabin colour scheme, lighting, style and soundscape)... and there are some great driver assistance features like lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control."

Melinda Ferguson, Motoring Journalist

"And, because it is all-electric, it does seem as if you glide effortlessly everywhere you go."

Melinda Ferguson, Motoring Journalist

What she was not happy with, was the limited range of the Aceman at just 305 km.

The Aceman E will cost you R800,000, while the SE model comes in at R892,000.

Ferguson gives the MINI Aceman a rating of 8.5/10, one which would have been an impressive9/10 if the range was better, she says.

Listen to Melinda Ferguson talking to Sara-Jayne Makwala King about the Aceman below(skip to 7:30)