The 2025 Mini John Cooper Works: A True Performance Icon

Mini has finally unveiled its 2025 John Cooper Works (JCW) models, bringing more power and excitement to the iconic brand. These JCW sport-compacts are available in both coupe and convertible versions, packing a punch with sharper performance and an enhanced driving experience.

What’s New in the 2025 Mini JCW?

Let’s get the less exciting details out of the way first. Gone is the manual transmission for the JCW models. Instead, you get the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission – the same found in the Cooper and Cooper S, but with more aggressive tuning for that sporty edge. But here’s a fun twist: despite this, the price for the coupe has gone up by nearly $3000, with the base starting at $39,375.

On the flip side, there's a bit of good news! The JCW convertible now starts at $44,875, which is $1020 less than before. So if you love open-air driving, you’ll get more value without breaking the bank. Both coupe and convertible are more powerful than ever, with the JCW models boasting an additional 44 lb-ft of torque thanks to engine tweaks, now pushing it to 280 lb-ft (up from 236). That makes the coupe rocket from 0-60 mph in just 5.9 seconds, and the convertible follows closely with a 6.2-second time.

Power & Performance: Let’s Talk Torque

• Engine: Turbocharged 2.0L inline-4, producing 228 hp
• Torque: 280 lb-ft (an increase of 44 lb-ft)
• Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
• 0-60 mph Time: 5.9 seconds for the coupe, 6.2 seconds for the convertible

Design & Features: A Sporty Edge

Whether you opt for the coupe or the convertible, the 2025 Mini JCW has a few features that make it stand out:

• Sporty Components: Aggressive brakes, adaptive suspension with JCW-specific tuning
• Customization: Union Jack design on the convertible top
• Interior: JCW-specific seats, steering wheel, and trim
• Convertible Top: 18-second retract time, even at speeds up to 19 mph, with a sunroof option

The interior now features a 9.4-inch OLED touchscreen, offering better resolution and quicker responses for tech lovers. You also get Mini’s signature Always Open Timer, which tells you just how much you’ve enjoyed driving with the top down – a fun feature that costs almost nothing to implement but adds to the joy.

Driving the JCW: Go-Kart Fun

If you’re looking for thrills on the road, the JCW delivers. Whether you're cruising in the coupe or convertible, the driving experience is all about fun at sensible limits. With the adaptive damping system, the ride remains comfortable for everyday driving, but switch to the new Go-Kart mode, and the suspension firms up for track-like handling without feeling harsh. In fact, you’ll enjoy smooth handling even over less-than-perfect roads like those in Savannah, Georgia.

While the Mini JCW doesn’t go after raw speed with its torque-heavy engine, it brings excitement even at slower speeds. The engine’s snappy response and fun exhaust sounds (even though they’re somewhat synthetic) make every trip an adventure.

Performance vs Competition: How Does the JCW Stack Up?

In the convertible market, the JCW faces competition from heavyweights like the Ford Mustang and the Mazda MX-5 Miata, though the JCW is in a class of its own with its compact, two-door design. Meanwhile, the hardtop battles the Honda Civic Si, Hyundai Elantra N, and Volkswagen Golf GTI. While these cars offer great performance at a lower price, none of them offer that unique two-door Mini experience.

2025 Mini John Cooper Works Specifications

Whether you’re looking for the exhilarating thrill of a convertible or the precision handling of the coupe, the 2025 Mini John Cooper Works delivers. With its upgraded performance, engaging driving experience, and unique design, it’s a must-have for any enthusiast.