MINI has at all times been about enjoyable. Regardless of how a lot the model evolves, that cheeky, go-kart-like really feel is what retains lovers coming again. However with every new era, the vehicles have grown bigger, a bit extra refined, and—let’s be sincere—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 search out out, I took it for a correct blast by the twisty roads of Barcelona. And spoiler alert—it nonetheless is aware of the way to have a very good time.
What Precisely is the JCW Trim?
MINI purists will shortly 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 package deal 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 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 observe weapon, but it surely actually appears like a cool observe toy.
Powering the Enjoyable
Underneath 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 a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. No, there’s no handbook choice, and sure, I sighed after I heard that too. Fortuitously, 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 amount of weight in my arms, 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 model, making certain a exact and responsive heart really feel. With a barely decrease heart of gravity, the steering has been fine-tuned to take care of stability and sharpness. The automobile’s vertical dynamics—stabilizers, dampers, and comes—additionally play a task, affecting the way it responds while 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 the gorgeous Spanish backroads. The suspension is agency however not punishing. It absorbs imperfections properly sufficient for every day use, however you’ll positively really feel the bumps if the street will get tough. That’s the trade-off for razor-sharp dealing with, and truthfully, 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 properly, 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 while you flooring it from a cease. Preserve 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 Collection, and Countryman, so in case you’ve pushed any of these, you’re already accustomed to the slight lag.
The brakes are wonderful, with sturdy chew and progressive pedal really feel. And regardless of operating 18-inch wheels with Pirelli summer season tires, the grip is surprisingly strong. Should you want extra grip, you possibly can spec the automobile with high-performance tires.
General, regardless of its barely larger 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 case you’ve been following me in the previous few years, then you realize I really like small vehicles.
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 total than the 3-Door. On the similar 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 unquestionably, 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 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 just a few caveats although. MINI moved away from leather-based interiors so in case you’re anticipating a high-quality upholstery for that cash, you’d be upset. I actually perceive the model’s objective 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 sort. It will probably really feel a bit low cost and in some methods, a step down from the earlier era 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 Each day Usability
On the freeway, the 5-Door JCW Trim settles into a cushty rhythm, however there are just a few quirks. The 18-inch tires generate noticeable street noise, although it’s nothing insufferable. The driving force help tech is primary, 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 permits you to take your arms off the wheel quickly, however you have to maintain your eyes on the street 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 pace, the system transitions to a extra primary autonomous mode, requiring you to maintain their arms on the wheel whereas nonetheless offering some help.
The top-up show is identical as earlier than, and whereas it will get the job achieved, a extra trendy, windshield-projected model would have been a pleasant improve. Regardless of these minor drawbacks, the MINI remains to be an ideal every day driver, particularly if you would like one thing sensible however enjoyable.
Ultimate Verdict: Who’s This Automotive For?
Should 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 obtained sharp dealing with, playful character, and sufficient practicality to justify selecting it over the 3-Door. However in case you’re a MINI purist, you would possibly really feel conflicted. It’s larger, 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 consumers, although, that is the candy spot. It’s obtained every day usability, correct MINI enjoyable, and sporty appears 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 package deal, and except you’re planning to take your MINI to the observe, the driving variations are minor. MINI has managed to modernize the Cooper S whereas preserving 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.
