- John Cooper Works versions of gas-powered Mini hatch and convertible revealed
- Peak power of 228 hp comes from 2.0-liter turbo-4
- U.S. sales start in early 2025
A new generation of Mini's Cooper hatch and Cooper Convertible arrive for the 2025 model year, and the small-car brand late on Tuesday revealed the high-performance John Cooper Works versions of both cars.
The pint-size performance duo stick with gas engines, but Mini earlier in October revealed an electric John Cooper Works hatch, plus a John Cooper Works version of the electric-only Aceman crossover. Those electric vehicles won't be sold in the U.S., though perhaps only initially.
While the gas models are built in the U.K., the EVs are built in in China, meaning they would attract crippling tariffs if imported here. The EVs may reach here in a couple of years though, as Mini plans to add their production to the U.K. plant in 2026.
The gas JCW models will reach U.S. dealerships early next year as 2025 models. The hatch will start at $39,195 and the convertible at $44,695. Both figures include a $995 destination charge.
2025 Mini John Cooper Works Convertible
The gas version of Mini's latest Cooper is based on a warmed over version of the outgoing car's platform, while the electric version uses a separate dedicated EV platform. As a result, the mechanicals for the gas version largely carry over unchanged from the previous generation, including in the case of the JCW.
Power in the JCW hatch and JCW Convertible comes from a 2.0-liter turbo-4 whose peak 228 hp. That figure is unchanged from the previous generation though peak torque is up slightly at 235 lb-ft. This is enough for 0-60 mph acceleration in around six seconds and a top speed of 155 mph (152 mph for the convertible), according to Mini.
Drive is to the front wheels only, via a dual-clutch automatic transmission. There's no more manual transmissions offered on any Minis. The suspension has also been dialed in to deliver sportier ride and handling, and an uprated brake system with red-painted calipers provide stronger stopping power. The wheels range from 17-18 inches in diameter and are also unique to the JCW models.
2025 Mini John Cooper Works 2-Door
2025 Mini John Cooper Works 2-Door
The JCW models are also characterized by their unique front and rear fascias, with extra air intakes up front and a diffuser at the rear. The hatch also sports a rear wing spoiler, while both models feature a central exhaust. Another unique touch are the JCW-specific daytime running lights which feature a horizontal design.
Inside, a black and red pattern lines the knitted surface of the dash of both vehicles. This color combination is expanded to the seats which feature black trim with red accent stitching. Other unique elements include the menus in the infotainment system, as well as an ambient lighting package that illuminates the roof.
The JCWs also come with a Go-Kart driving mode. In addition to sharpening the throttle response and stiffening the steering feel, this mode also changes some of the interior ambience characteristics, including making the central display also show additional performance metrics like torque, power, and current g-force.
