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 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 seek out out, I took it for a correct blast by the twisty roads of Barcelona. And spoiler alert—it nonetheless is aware of learn how to have a very good 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 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 refined aero tweaks. It’s not an all-out monitor weapon, but it surely definitely appears to be like 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 distributed completely to the entrance wheels by a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. No, there’s no guide possibility, and sure, I sighed after I heard that too. Thankfully, 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 fingers, 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, 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 job, 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 the attractive Spanish backroads. The suspension is agency however not punishing. It absorbs imperfections properly sufficient for day by day use, however you’ll undoubtedly really feel the bumps if the street will get tough. That’s the trade-off for razor-sharp dealing with, and truthfully, it’s value it. I also needs to point out that the engineers softened the rear suspension to make it a extra livable day by 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 once you ground it from a cease. Hold the revs up, and it wakes up properly. It’s not a dealbreaker, however a guide would have remodeled this automobile. P.S. This is similar DCT discovered within the X1, X2, 1 Collection, and Countryman, so when you’ve pushed any of these, you’re already acquainted with the slight lag.
The brakes are wonderful, with robust chew and progressive pedal really feel. And regardless of operating 18-inch wheels with Pirelli summer time tires, the grip is surprisingly stable. If you happen to want extra grip, you’ll be able to 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, but it surely simply provides to the drama. This isn’t about excellent refinement—it’s about having enjoyable. And when you’ve been following me in the previous couple of years, then you already know I 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 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 unquestionably, 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 achieve 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 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 when you’re anticipating a high-quality upholstery for that cash, you’d be dissatisfied. I definitely perceive the model’s aim to maneuver in 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 great sort. It might 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 Day by 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 street 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 fingers off the wheel quickly, however you will need to hold 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 fundamental autonomous mode, requiring you to maintain their fingers on the wheel whereas nonetheless offering some help.
The pinnacle-up show is similar as earlier than, and whereas it will get the job achieved, a extra fashionable, windshield-projected model would have been a pleasant improve. Regardless of these minor drawbacks, the MINI remains to be a terrific day by day driver, particularly if you’d like one thing sensible however enjoyable.
Last Verdict: Who’s This Automotive For?
If you happen to’re in search of 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 when you’re a MINI purist, you may really feel conflicted. It’s larger, heavier, and lacking a guide, 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 obtained day by day usability, correct MINI enjoyable, and sporty appears to be like with out being too excessive.
Would I purchase this over the 3-Door? Truthfully, 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 preserving its spunky, playful persona intact. It could have grown up somewhat—however at coronary heart, it’s nonetheless a correct Mini.
And that’s all that actually issues.
