Mini crossover bound for NZ

Mini has confirmed its all-new Aceman is set to arrive in New Zealand in the fourth quarter of this year and will be its first crossover model for the premium small car segment. 

The marque says the vehicle is a contemporary interpretation of Mini inventor Sir Alec Issigonis’ vision of maximum utilisation of space and a minimum footprint all with a modern drive concept. 

The all-electric Mini Aceman measures just over four metres long, has five seats and its luggage compartment boasts a load volume of 300 litres, which can be extended to 1,005 litres thanks to a 60:40 folding rear seat. 

It has a predicted range of up to 406km in the WLTP test cycle and when it comes to sizing is positioned between the Cooper and the Countryman. 

Two powertrain options are available at launch, with the Aceman E featuring a 135kW/184hp electric motor generating torque of 290 Nm and completing the 0-100kph sprint in 7.9 seconds. It also has a range of 294-310km.

Alternatively, the Aceman SE has an output of 160 kW/218hp, torque of 330 Nm, can clock 0-100kph in 7.1 seconds and its range is from 382-407km.

The trim options offer contrasting roof and exterior mirrors, a two-spoke basic steering wheel can be replaced by a three-spoke one featuring a textile band and seats can be covered in high-quality fabric or Vescin vegan leather. 

There are also options to have the front grille in different finishes and the Aceman has a panoramic glass roof. 

A circular OLED display is the centrepiece of the interior and the Mini Operating System 9 allows all driving functions to be operated by touch or voice, while an interaction unit is handled in a similar way to a smartphone. 

The Aceman comes with driving assistant plus, which provides additional steering and lane assistance for drivers, and 12 ultrasonic sensors and four surround-view cameras automatically initiate parking manoeuvres where space is limited.

Local pricing and specifications are due to be announced closer to launch.