For 2025, Mini took their beloved, but slow-selling Cooper on a journey of refinement. Keeping the character, while simplifying the choices was the first priority. Finding a way to make it easier to build was the next task. Then, Mini took away something vital, while giving it more tech.
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Was it worth it? Well, the Mini Cooper and Cooper S will never challenge a Toyota Corolla for sales, nor will it trounce all other fun cars in the $30-$35,000-zone. It can’t. Still, this is a lively, easy-to-drive vehicle that has lots of spunk. It’s slightly more civilized now, and a majority of the updates are welcome.
Yes, there is an EV version, a JCW, a convertible, and even a four-door version of the 2025 Mini Cooper. They are more expensive and are on a different level. We’re focusing on the OG, the 2-door models. The base Mini and the Mini S are new, and updated. Is it for the best?
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Reason to love it #1: It’s adorable
Come on, you know you think it’s cute. That’s always been one of the huge selling points of the Mini Cooper over the decades. The overexaggerated toy-box silhouette, mixed in with the “bulldog” stance can’t be denied. The wheels pushed out the extreme corners and the crayon-box color palette is notable too.
Even though it’s enormous compared to previous Minis, the size is still micro-sized in the United States. Only the Fiat 500e is smaller. Despite the growth, Mini designers managed to keep the appearance instantly recognizable. Additionally, they gave it some cool Easter eggs here and there.
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Reason to love it #2: It’s a hoot to drive
The regular Mini Cooper comes with a 161 horsepower 2.0-liter, I4 that makes 184 lb-ft of torque. More than enough for spirited driving, and plenty of power for passing. The fun one, the one that makes you giggle every time, is the 201 hp 2.0-liter, making 221 lb-ft of torque. Both are turbocharged and come with a 7-speed dual-clutch (automatic-ish) transmission.
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Reason to love it #3: It’s a fantastic commuter
Living in Los Angeles, I often see the worst commuters. Owning a pickup truck, G-Wagon, or Model–X doesn’t help congestion. Additionally, it makes parking hell. Drive a Mini Cooper though and that parking space is easy-peasy. Outward vision is great and so is maneuverability.
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Reason to love it #4: It’s the best road-trip Mini Cooper yet
Remember when I said it’s more, “civilized?” It is indeed. The ride quality is vastly improved over all surfaces. It still steers like a go-kart when pushed, but its highway ride is outstanding for such a small car. Road trips should no longer be fear-inducing. In addition, it gets an outstanding 32 mpg combined (39 mpg highway!). That’s for both engines, according to the EPA.
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Reason to think twice #1: No more manual transmission.
This one stings many enthusiasts, especially considering that (at one point) all Mini models came with a manual transmission as an option. Nope, all gone now. Every Mini, with the exception of the EV model(s) will have a dual-clutch 7-speed transmission. It works with an odd switch on the dash, and there are NO paddle shifters available for either model. Boo.
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Reason to think twice #2: Mini’s are pricey
Sure, you can pay $28,950 base model Mini Cooper, but that’s without any accessories. Fortunately, Mini has eliminated many accessories and options, so you may get by with a price tag in the lower $ 30,000 zone. The entry-level fee for the Cooper S is $32,200. Once again, it will be a bit higher.
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Fortunately, you get a solid little car for the money, one that is super unique and fun to drive. Also, their new interior is comfy, if a bit staid. An awesome addition is a round 9-inch infotainment screen that contains ALL of the vehicle’s important information.
Yeah, it’s quirky and a bit pricey – but it’s still a real hoot to drive.
About the author
Nathan Adlen
Contributing Writer, Autoblog