MINI has all the time been about enjoyable. Regardless of how a lot the model evolves, that cheeky, go-kart-like really feel is what retains fans coming again. However with every new technology, the vehicles have grown bigger, a bit extra refined, and—let’s be trustworthy—barely extra mature. The large query with the 2025 MINI Cooper S 5-Door JCW Trim (codename F65) isn’t simply whether or not it’s good; it’s whether or not it’s nonetheless a MINI at coronary heart. To seek out out, I took it for a correct blast by way of the twisty roads of Barcelona. And spoiler alert—it nonetheless is aware of how one can have time.
What Precisely is the JCW Trim?
MINI purists will rapidly level out that this isn’t a full John Cooper Works mannequin. Not like the hardcore JCW variants, which push efficiency to the sting, the JCW Trim bundle takes a extra balanced strategy. Consider it as MINI’s model of BMW’s M Efficiency fashions—a midway step between the usual Cooper S and the full-fat JCW. That doesn’t imply it lacks the mandatory upgrades to make it really feel particular.
The suspension has been reworked with stiffer springs and dampers, sharpening up the dealing with with out making the experience insufferable. The steering has been recalibrated for faster responses, and visually, the JCW remedy provides extra aggressive styling cues, from blacked-out badging to distinctive wheels and refined aero tweaks. It’s not an all-out monitor weapon, nevertheless it actually seems to be like a cool monitor toy.
Powering the Enjoyable
Below the hood, the brand new F65 Cooper S 5-Door JCW Trim packs the acquainted 2.0-liter B48 turbocharged four-cylinder engine, pushing out 204 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. That’s sufficient to ship it from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.8 seconds. Energy is shipped completely to the entrance wheels by way of a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. No, there’s no guide choice, and sure, I sighed once I heard that too. Happily, some markets, are nonetheless getting the shift paddles behind the steering wheel.
Behind the Wheel: Does It Nonetheless Really feel Like a MINI?
One flip of the wheel, and it’s apparent—that is nonetheless a MINI. The steering is pretty fast, direct, and with good suggestions. It has the correct quantity of weight in my palms, particularly within the Go-Kart mode. The steering ratio stays unchanged although from the 3-Door variant, however the software program has been recalibrated to go well with the 5-Door’s physique fashion, guaranteeing a exact and responsive heart really feel. With a barely decrease heart of gravity, the steering has been fine-tuned to keep up stability and sharpness. The automobile’s vertical dynamics—stabilizers, dampers, and is derived—additionally play a task, affecting the way it responds once you apply steering inputs.
Flick it right into a nook, and this MINI Cooper S darts in with zero hesitation. The sensible MINI delivers a balanced and managed really feel by way of the attractive Spanish backroads. The suspension is agency however not punishing. It absorbs imperfections effectively sufficient for every day use, however you’ll undoubtedly really feel the bumps if the highway will get tough. That’s the trade-off for razor-sharp dealing with, and actually, it’s price it. I also needs to point out that the engineers softened the rear suspension to make it a extra livable every day driver.
The B48 engine pulls effectively, however don’t count on a rocket ship. The acceleration is brisk, however not mind-blowing. The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission is usually sharp, however there’s a slight delay once you flooring it from a cease. Hold the revs up, and it wakes up properly. It’s not a dealbreaker, however a guide would have reworked this automobile. P.S. This is similar DCT discovered within the X1, X2, 1 Collection, and Countryman, so if you happen to’ve pushed any of these, you’re already conversant in the slight lag.
The brakes are glorious, with sturdy chunk and progressive pedal really feel. And regardless of operating 18-inch wheels with Pirelli summer time tires, the grip is surprisingly stable. When you want extra grip, you may spec the automobile with high-performance tires.
Total, regardless of its barely larger measurement, the 5-Door JCW Trim nonetheless delivers that go-kart vibe, with minimal physique roll and a playful chassis. Torque steer? Yep, it’s there, nevertheless it simply provides to the drama. This isn’t about excellent refinement—it’s about having enjoyable. And if you happen to’ve been following me in the previous few years, then you recognize I like small vehicles.
How the 5-Door Compares to the 3-Door
That is the place issues get attention-grabbing. The 5-Door is 2.8 inches longer in wheelbase and 6.7 inches longer total than the 3-Door. On the identical time, it’s a bit larger than the previous-generation mannequin, the F55. That interprets to a noticeably extra spacious inside, particularly for rear passengers, and a bit extra cargo room (275-925 liters). So surely, the MINI Cooper S 5-Door is the extra sensible selection. You’re giving up a little bit of the edgy, hardcore really feel of the 3-Door, however you acquire on a regular basis usability. It’s nonetheless fast, enjoyable, and playful—it simply doesn’t really feel fairly as manic.
Contained in the JCW Trim: Fashionable, However with Some Shortcomings
Step inside, and MINI’s retro-meets-tech strategy is on full show. The OLED spherical display screen takes heart stage, operating Mini OS 9. It’s faster and smoother than earlier than, although it nonetheless has the occasional lag. The JCW touches make it really feel particular—red-stitched sports activities seats, badging on the door sills and steering wheel. There are a couple of caveats although. MINI moved away from leather-based interiors so if you happen to’re anticipating a high-quality upholstery for that cash, you’d be disenchanted. I actually perceive the model’s aim to maneuver in direction of a completely sustainable and recycle automobile, however one leather-based choice would have been good.
Subsequent, there’s a bit an excessive amount of plastic contained in the automobile, and never the great form. It could possibly really feel a bit low-cost and in some methods, a step down from the earlier technology F55. Lastly, the material on the dashboard is cool and all, however long run upkeep and sturdiness continues to be a priority.
Freeway Driving and Each day Usability
On the freeway, the 5-Door JCW Trim settles into a snug rhythm, however there are a couple of quirks. The 18-inch tires generate noticeable highway noise, although it’s nothing insufferable. The motive force help tech is fundamental, missing the high-end options present in BMW fashions. MINI merely doesn’t have the identical packaging house for superior sensors. The Degree 2 automated driving system means that you can take your palms off the wheel briefly, however you should hold your eyes on the highway and be able to take management at any second. The system mechanically disengages as soon as speeds go above 37 mph (60 km/h). When you exceed that velocity, the system transitions to a extra fundamental autonomous mode, requiring you to maintain their palms on the wheel whereas nonetheless offering some help.
The pinnacle-up show is similar as earlier than, and whereas it will get the job finished, a extra fashionable, windshield-projected model would have been a pleasant improve. Regardless of these minor drawbacks, the MINI continues to be a terrific every day driver, particularly if you need one thing sensible however enjoyable.
Remaining Verdict: Who’s This Automobile For?
When you’re on the lookout for a automobile that makes you smile each time you drive it, the MINI Cooper S 5-Door JCW Trim delivers. It’s received sharp dealing with, playful character, and sufficient practicality to justify selecting it over the 3-Door. However if you happen to’re a MINI purist, you would possibly really feel conflicted. It’s larger, heavier, and lacking a guide, which implies it’s not fairly as uncooked as older fashions. In comparison with the R53 or R56 period, it’s extra refined and fewer frantic. For many patrons, although, that is the candy spot. It’s received every day usability, correct MINI enjoyable, and sporty seems to be with out being too excessive.
Would I purchase this over the 3-Door? Actually, sure. The added house and value make it a extra full bundle, and until you’re planning to take your MINI to the monitor, the driving variations are minor. MINI has managed to modernize the Cooper S whereas retaining its spunky, playful character intact. It might have grown up somewhat—however at coronary heart, it’s nonetheless a correct Mini.
And that’s all that basically issues.
