The 2025 Mini Cooper JCW Forgets A Promise
Mini used to be (ironically) very big on the manual transmission. In fact, the company still offers driving lessons to those looking to learn how to drive a manual. Despite that, and a very recent 45% take rate on manual transmission models, the most hardcore Mini sports car loses its six-speed manual transmission for 2025. The consolation prize? More torque.
Per Mini, the JCW is all new for 2025, and though its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder makes the same 228 horsepower as the last JCW, torque increases to 280 lb-ft (up from 235 lb-ft). The result is an improved 0-60 time, at 5.9 seconds for the hatchback or 6.3 for the convertible. As mentioned above, the manual is gone, and the only way this JCW changes gears is a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic spinning the front wheels.
JCW models benefit from extra air inlets with red accents and a central exhaust tip with more accenting (though only on the hatch). Convertibles also carry over the last JCW’s tail lights, while hatches receive an updated look. Inside, things are all-new, though they’re very similar to the redesigned Cooper. Differences include seats, red accents, and a new steering wheel. Th interior is dominated by a large, central, and very circular 9.4-inch OLED display, and JCW models benefit from an upgraded Harmon Kardon sound system as standard. The two-door hatchback will start at $39,195, including a $995 destination charge. Opt for the ‘vert, that number rises to $44,695.
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Chase is an automotive journalist with years of experience in the industry. He writes for outlets like Edmunds and AutoGuide, among many others. When not writing, Chase is in front of the camera over at The Overrun, his YouTube channel run alongside his friend and co-host Jobe Teehan. If he's not writing reviews of the latest in cars or producing industry coverage, Chase is at home in the driver's seat of his own (usually German) sports cars.
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