Mini Paceman
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a small SUV that breaks the mould? The Mini Paceman might be exactly what you’re after. This quirky compact crossover was Mini’s bold attempt to create something different in the crowded small SUV market. With its distinctive coupe like profile and unmistakable Mini styling, it offered buyers a unique alternative to conventional family crossovers. It’s the car for people who wanted Mini’s premium feel and distinctive character in a more practical, higher riding package.

From first glance, the Paceman commands attention with its muscular stance and flowing roofline. The distinctive design sets it apart from more conventional rivals like the Nissan Qashqai or Skoda Kamiq. Inside, you get Mini’s trademark premium interior with the iconic central speedometer and toggle switches. The cabin feels special and well built, with quality materials throughout. Everything has that solid, upmarket feel that Mini is known for, making everyday journeys feel more engaging.

On the road, the Paceman delivers Mini’s characteristic driving experience with a higher seating position. The steering is direct and responsive, while the ride quality balances comfort with that sporty Mini character. It handles twisty roads with confidence while remaining comfortable enough for daily use. While it may cost more than mainstream alternatives and rear space is limited, you’re paying for Mini’s unique blend of style, quality, and driving enjoyment that makes every trip feel special.

What's the Mini Paceman Like to Drive?

The Mini Paceman offers a range of petrol and diesel engines designed to balance performance with efficiency. The entry level Cooper version produces around 122 horsepower, providing adequate power for town driving and motorway cruising. For those wanting more punch, the Cooper S delivers 184 horsepower, offering genuinely brisk acceleration with a 0 to 60 time of around 7.5 seconds. The diesel Cooper D provides excellent fuel economy while maintaining decent performance for everyday driving needs.

Where the Paceman truly excels is in its engaging driving dynamics. The steering is precise and well weighted, giving you confidence through corners despite the higher riding position. The suspension setup strikes a good balance between comfort and control. It feels planted and secure on winding roads while soaking up most bumps effectively. The optional All4 all wheel drive system adds extra grip and stability in challenging conditions. This compact SUV manages to deliver Mini’s trademark driving enjoyment while offering the practicality benefits of higher ground clearance and improved visibility.

Inside the Mini Paceman: Comfort & Features

Step inside the Paceman and you’re greeted by Mini’s distinctive interior design philosophy. The cabin feels premium and well crafted, with high quality materials throughout. The iconic central speedometer dominates the dashboard, surrounded by the characteristic toggle switches that control various functions. The seats are supportive and comfortable, with good adjustment range to help you find the ideal driving position. The driving position itself feels commanding, giving you a great view of the road ahead.

The interior benefits from Mini’s attention to detail and build quality. Soft touch surfaces are used in key areas, and everything operates with a satisfying precision. Standard equipment includes air conditioning, electric windows, and a decent sound system. Higher specification models add features like leather upholstery, satellite navigation, and premium audio systems. Road noise is well controlled, creating a refined cabin environment. The rear seats offer reasonable space for children or smaller adults, though taller passengers might find headroom a bit tight due to the sloping roofline.

The Mini Paceman succeeds in creating something genuinely different in the small crossover segment. It delivers Mini’s characteristic premium feel, distinctive styling, and engaging driving dynamics in a more practical package than the brand’s traditional hatchbacks. The interior quality is excellent, and the driving experience remains true to Mini’s sporty character while offering the benefits of higher ground clearance and improved visibility.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

Is the Mini Paceman Expensive to Run?

As a premium brand vehicle, the Mini Paceman comes with correspondingly higher running costs than mainstream alternatives. Fuel economy varies significantly depending on which engine you choose. The diesel Cooper D delivers impressive real world economy of around 50 to 55 mpg, making it the most economical choice. The petrol engines return between 35 to 45 mpg in typical driving conditions. Insurance groups are moderate to high, reflecting the car’s premium positioning and performance potential.

The initial purchase price represents the biggest cost consideration. Even used examples command higher prices than equivalent mainstream crossovers due to the Mini badge and desirability factor. Servicing costs are higher than average, and parts can be expensive when repairs are needed. However, Mini’s reputation for build quality means major issues are relatively rare with proper maintenance. The strong residual values help offset some ownership costs, and car finance options can make the monthly payments more manageable for many buyers.

Mini Paceman Practicality & Boot Space

For a compact crossover, the Mini Paceman offers reasonable practicality with some compromises. The 330 litre boot provides adequate space for weekly shopping or a couple of suitcases for a weekend away. The rear seats fold down to expand cargo capacity when you need to carry larger items. Inside the cabin, storage spaces are well thought out, with door pockets, cup holders, and various cubby holes for everyday items.

Where the Paceman shows its limitations is in rear seat accommodation. The sloping roofline that gives the car its distinctive coupe profile reduces headroom for taller rear passengers. Legroom is acceptable for children and shorter adults but can feel cramped for taller individuals on longer journeys. This makes it ideal for couples or small families with young children. Compared to other used Mini cars, the Paceman offers the best combination of style and practicality, though conventional crossovers like the Nissan Qashqai provide more interior space overall.

The Mini Paceman carved out its own unique niche in the competitive small SUV market through distinctive styling and premium appeal. It successfully combined Mini’s renowned build quality, engaging driving dynamics, and characterful interior design with the practical benefits of a crossover body style. While it may not offer the most space or the lowest running costs in its class, it excels in areas that matter for drivers seeking something special.

You choose the Paceman because you want a small SUV that doesn’t blend into the crowd. Its eye catching design, quality interior, and entertaining driving experience make it stand out from more conventional alternatives. It’s ideally suited for buyers who prioritise style and character over outright practicality. With cars under £10,000 now available, the Paceman represents an accessible way to own something genuinely distinctive in the used car market.