Mini has unveiled its highly anticipated 2025 Mini John Cooper Works Countryman, and it’s safe to say that the new model comes with “Bigger Everything.” This is not only the most powerful Mini to date but also the first roadgoing Mini to feature the newly simplified JCW logo, setting the stage for a thrilling driving experience.
Under the hood, the JCW Countryman packs a punch with its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, which cranks out an impressive 312 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque in the US specification. This robust powerplant matches its BMW counterparts, including the all-new BMW X2 M35i, which positions the Mini as a formidable contender in the performance crossover segment. Notably, unlike some of its competitors, the Mini JCW Countryman doesn’t rely on hybridization but rather employs an all-wheel-drive system and a seven-speed Sport Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) to harness the engine’s might.
In terms of performance, the 2025 JCW Countryman doesn’t disappoint. It can sprint from 0 to 62 mph in a swift 5.4 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph, ensuring an exhilarating ride for enthusiasts. This extra power is necessary to handle the demands of being the largest JCW Countryman to date.
Not only does the JCW Countryman excel in performance, but it also showcases an array of stylish enhancements, both inside and out. The new John Cooper Works checkered flag logo makes its debut on the road, emphasizing the model’s racing heritage. Visually, the car stands out with its exclusive 19- and 20-inch wheel designs, wrapped in wider 245mm rubber that contributes to ride quality. Mini is proud of its “go-kart-like” handling, and these enhancements are designed to elevate that experience. Additionally, the high-performance braking system with Chili Red-painted calipers adds both form and function to the vehicle.
Mini’s emphasis on character and emotion in the JCW is evident in the variable exhaust system. It features a flap that opens up in sportier driving modes, amplifying the sound of the four-cylinder engine. The JCW sound extension further intensifies the auditory experience with racing-inspired engine sounds, possibly through the speakers, ensuring a visceral connection between the driver and the machine.
On the exterior, the JCW Countryman distinguishes itself with a unique checkered-flag octagonal grille and bespoke LED headlight graphics that evoke the new JCW logo’s design elements. The design extends to the rear with JCW-specific LED taillight graphics, a roof-mounted wraparound spoiler, and quad tailpipes, giving the vehicle a bold and assertive look.
Inside the cabin, Mini adopts the “Keep It Simple, Stupid” (KISS) philosophy, splitting the interior into upper and lower sections with a distinctive horizontal dash cut-off. The upper dash is adorned with red and black fabric, and it houses Mini’s new round OLED infotainment touchscreen. This interface can project OLED light displays across the dash, providing a unique ambient lighting experience.
The red-and-black theme continues with the JCW-specific front bucket seats and a chunky perforated leather steering wheel. The steering wheel features prominent thumb grips, a flat bottom, and red contrast stitching, contributing to the racing heritage of the Mini brand.
In terms of technology, the new JCW Countryman doesn’t disappoint. The infotainment display doubles as the interface for driving modes, including the Go-Kart mode, allowing drivers to customize their driving experience. Mini’s onboard virtual assistant, Spike the bulldog, responds to voice commands for various functions, making for a seamless and interactive driving experience.
Safety and driver assistance features receive a significant boost, with 12 ultrasonic sensors and four surround-view cameras enabling Level 2 partially-automated driving. This system can detect traffic gaps, perform lane changes, and guide the driver on highways at speeds of up to 37 mph, enhancing the overall safety and convenience of the vehicle.
US-market production of the 2025 Mini JCW Countryman begins in March 2024, with the first units expected to arrive in early May. What’s more, the starting price of $46,900 plus a $995 destination charge positions the JCW Countryman as a compelling option in its segment, being $3,500 more affordable than the BMW X2 M35i.
