This fall, the third-generation Mini Countryman made its premiere in two variants: a completely electric model with up to 308 horsepower and all-wheel drive, and a gas-powered one with 241 horsepower distributed to all four wheels. Even though the departing Countryman and both of these versions already have more zing in their step, Mini is now cranking up the heat for enthusiasts of aggressive driving. Returning for 2025, the performance-oriented John Cooper Works variant features an all-wheel drive system and a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four.
According to Mini, the 2.0-liter engine’s pistons, connecting rods, and engine mounts were upgraded. With 312 horsepower, the turbocharged motor outperforms the basic Countryman by 71 horsepower and the previous Countryman JCW by 11 horsepower. But torque is far less than the departing JCW’s 331 pound-feet, at 295 pound-feet, which is the same as the regular Countryman.
This stylish crossover can reach 62 mph in 5.4 seconds with standard all-wheel drive, according to Mini. That’s more than a second faster than what Mini claims the non-JCW Countryman can do. Nevertheless, the final JCW we evaluated reached 60 mph in a just 4.4 seconds. Mini claims that the Countryman JCW can reach a top speed of 155 mph and has a slick drag coefficient of 0.26.
The 245-section-width tires on the 19.0 or 20.0-inch rims are an improvement over the 225-section rubber on the outgoing model. In contrast to the Pirelli Cinturato P7s on the previous version, the tires appear to be Continental EcoContact 6Qs based on press images. The crossover has a “high-performance braking system,” and the brake calipers are painted chili red to give it a little visual punch. “Characteristic sound” from the exhaust is mentioned by Mini, along with a “exclusive JCW sound extension” that “intensifies the soundscape with racing-inspired engine sounds.” The Countryman’s sportiest option, Go-Kart mode, contains an engine tone that has been artificially increased.
Red accents, a checkered flag-inspired grille pattern, a redesigned front bumper, and a unique JCW logo that appears on the grille, hatchback, and C-pillar are some of the visual cues that set the John Cooper Works vehicles apart. The headlight LEDs have also been modified, and the dashboard features a complex design of vertical lines made of recycled polyester upholstery, all complemented by a sporty red trim package inside the interior.
With the optional Driving Assistant Professional package installed, the JCW’s twelve ultrasonic sensors and four cameras enable the driver to take their hands off the wheel when traveling at up to 37 mph on “highway-like routes.” In order to make lane changes, the assisted driving feature will also look for gaps in the flow of traffic. Mini highlights that the driver needs to be alert and prepared to take over at any time.
When the Countryman John Cooper Works debuts in the United States the following year, it will retail for $47,895. March 2024 is the start of production, and early May is when deliveries are anticipated to start.
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