Verdict
Winner: Alfa Romeo Junior
There's a huge amount to like about the Alfa, with it beating many rivals when it comes to its ride/handling balance and unique personality. Its style, driving dynamics and decent residual values make this the most convincing Stellantis small EV money can currently buy, too, and it has the ability to see off its newest challenger, the MINI Aceman, in this contest.
But this win doesn’t make it a class-leader. Four stars is as good as it gets, because for similar money you can find rivals that offer more space and range plus faster charging.
Runner-up: MINI Aceman
If this test was based on interior style, quality and performance, then the MINI would trounce almost any rival we put it up against. Efficiency looks promising, too, and as always for a MINI, there’s plenty level of customisation on offer.
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But for the money you’re not getting a huge amount of space, charging speed or range. Most disappointing is that the Aceman isn’t that impressive to drive. There’s no hiding its 1,800kg weight through the turns, and the ride is much too firm. For all the places the Aceman excels, it frustrates in others even more.
The MINI Aceman and Alfa Romeo Junior are aiming to make a splash in the compact electric SUV segment, but have they got what it takes?
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