New cars this week

The not-so-tiny German offshoot of the classic Mini finally gets the electric treatment. The new MINI Cooper SE is fitted with a 135 kW electric motor that helps it reach 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds and cover 235-270 kilometres, depending on which of the four driving modes are being used. Will the electric motor bring an end to MINI’s long-term reliability issues or increase it tenfold? Only time will tell.

While the MINI was quick to jump on the new eclectic bandwagon, the folks at Alpine decided to go against the trend and embrace their heritage even more firmly. The new A110 SportsX Concept channels its predecessor’s rally racing days with an 80mm wider body and 60mm higher ground clearance. It also has a rack on its rear window to mount a pair of ski sets.