MINI has all the time been about enjoyable. Irrespective of how a lot the model evolves, that cheeky, go-kart-like really feel is what retains lovers coming again. However with every new technology, the automobiles have grown bigger, a bit extra refined, and—let’s be trustworthy—barely extra mature. The massive 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 search out out, I took it for a correct blast by means of the twisty roads of Barcelona. And spoiler alert—it nonetheless is aware of how one can have a superb time.
What Precisely is the JCW Trim?
MINI purists will rapidly level out that this isn’t a full John Cooper Works mannequin. In contrast to the hardcore JCW variants, which push efficiency to the sting, the JCW Trim bundle takes a extra balanced method. 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 required 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 delicate aero tweaks. It’s not an all-out monitor weapon, but it surely definitely seems like a cool monitor toy.
Powering the Enjoyable
Beneath 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 solely to the entrance wheels by means of a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. No, there’s no handbook possibility, 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 swimsuit the 5-Door’s physique fashion, making certain a exact and responsive middle really feel. With a barely decrease middle of gravity, the steering has been fine-tuned to take care of stability and sharpness. The automobile’s vertical dynamics—stabilizers, dampers, and is derived—additionally play a job, affecting the way it responds if 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 means of the attractive Spanish backroads. The suspension is agency however not punishing. It absorbs imperfections effectively sufficient for each 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 must also point out that the engineers softened the rear suspension to make it a extra livable each 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 generally sharp, however there’s a slight delay if you flooring it from a cease. Maintain the revs up, and it wakes up properly. It’s not a dealbreaker, however a handbook would have reworked this automobile. P.S. This is identical DCT discovered within the X1, X2, 1 Sequence, and Countryman, so in the event you’ve pushed any of these, you’re already accustomed to the slight lag.
The brakes are glorious, with sturdy chew and progressive pedal really feel. And regardless of working 18-inch wheels with Pirelli summer time tires, the grip is surprisingly strong. For those who want extra grip, you may spec the automobile with high-performance tires.
General, regardless of its barely greater dimension, 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, but it surely simply provides to the drama. This isn’t about excellent refinement—it’s about having enjoyable. And in the event you’ve been following me in the previous couple of years, then I like small automobiles.
How the 5-Door Compares to the 3-Door
That is the place issues get fascinating. The 5-Door is 2.8 inches longer in wheelbase and 6.7 inches longer general than the 3-Door. On the similar time, it’s a bit greater 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 definitely, the MINI Cooper S 5-Door is the extra sensible alternative. 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: Trendy, However with Some Shortcomings
Step inside, and MINI’s retro-meets-tech method is on full show. The OLED spherical display takes middle stage, working 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 just a few caveats although. MINI moved away from leather-based interiors so in the event you’re anticipating a high-quality upholstery for that cash, you’d be disenchanted. I definitely perceive the model’s purpose to maneuver in the direction of a totally sustainable and recycle automobile, however one leather-based possibility would have been good.
Subsequent, there’s a bit an excessive amount of plastic contained in the automobile, and never the nice type. It may 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 remains to be a priority.
Freeway Driving and Day by day Usability
On the freeway, the 5-Door JCW Trim settles into a snug rhythm, however there are just a few quirks. The 18-inch tires generate noticeable highway noise, although it’s nothing insufferable. The driving 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 Stage 2 automated driving system lets you take your palms off the wheel quickly, however it’s essential to maintain your eyes on the highway and be able to take management at any second. The system routinely 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 identical as earlier than, and whereas it will get the job performed, a extra fashionable, windshield-projected model would have been a pleasant improve. Regardless of these minor drawbacks, the MINI remains to be an incredible each day driver, particularly in order for you one thing sensible however enjoyable.
Remaining Verdict: Who’s This Automotive For?
For those who’re searching for a automobile that makes you smile each time you drive it, the MINI Cooper S 5-Door JCW Trim delivers. It’s bought sharp dealing with, playful character, and sufficient practicality to justify selecting it over the 3-Door. However in the event you’re a MINI purist, you may really feel conflicted. It’s greater, heavier, and lacking a handbook, which suggests 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 bought each day usability, correct MINI enjoyable, and sporty seems 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 except you’re planning to take your MINI to the monitor, the driving variations are minor. MINI has managed to modernize the Cooper S whereas holding its spunky, playful character intact. It might have grown up just a little—however at coronary heart, it’s nonetheless a correct Mini.
And that’s all that basically issues.
