2025 MINI John Cooper Works Convertible: Is it Still a Driving Enthusiast's Car?

Infotainment and Interior Experience

• 💡 The infotainment system is widely criticized as the worst of 2025, being convoluted, difficult to use, and prone to resetting settings.
• 🧠 Despite the system's flaws, the interior materials are praised, with nice fabric, good perforation on the leather steering wheel, and well-designed sport seats.
• 📌 A unique feature is the "Always Open Timer" which tracks how long the soft-top roof has been down.
• 📱 The circular OLED infotainment display, made by Samsung, is likened to a large smartwatch screen, with wireless CarPlay and Android Auto available.

Engine, Performance, and Handling

• 🚀 The car is powered by BMW's B48 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 228 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
• ⚡ While the engine is described as efficient, powerful, and characterful, the dual-clutch gearbox is noted for lazy downshifts and a lack of clear RPM indication.
• ⚠️ The JCW model features a limited-slip differential in the front, but the car exhibits significant torque steer and understeer, with a very stiff ride even in regular modes.
• 🏁 The "Go-kart mode" is engaged, but the car's stiffness makes it unlivable and uncomfortable, with noticeable cowl shake and a ride quality compared to cut factory springs.

Design and Practicality

• ✨ The exterior design is lauded, with JCW-specific styling, red detailing, gloss-black accents, and Union Jack taillights and roof details.
• 🛠️ The hood design, which opens over the headlights, is a appreciated detail that Mini retained.
• 📦 Practicality includes a clever trunk design with extra room above the standard compartment, though trunk volume is limited, especially with the roof down.
• 💨 The power soft-top roof can be operated up to 19 mph, and there's a useful wind blocker that minimizes buffeting.

Driving Dynamics and Character

• 🔊 A major disappointment is the lack of authentic exhaust sound, with the pops and burbles being entirely fake and emitted through speakers.
• 📉 The car is considered a "numbfest" and lacks the engaging, exciting driving character expected from a JCW model, with a loss of soul and personality.
• 🚫 The absence of a manual transmission option and the removal of the traditional handbrake are seen as significant drawbacks.
• 🤔 The reviewers question who this car is for, suggesting it's no longer for the driving enthusiast but rather has adopted Tesla-like gimmicks, leading to an identity crisis.

Overall Assessment

• 💔 Despite its beautiful design and modern interior, the 2025 MINI JCW Convertible is let down by its frustrating infotainment, overly stiff ride, and lack of genuine driving engagement.
• 📈 Mini is in a transitional phase, trying to balance heritage with modern tech, but this execution feels slightly off, with the infotainment being a particular low point.
• 🌟 The M235i is suggested as a more engaging and fun alternative in a similar price bracket, offering more personality and excitement.
• 💡 The reviewers hope for future improvements in Mini's infotainment, sound, and a potential return of the manual transmission.