The fourth-generation MINI Cooper landed in showrooms this year in the usual assortment of 3 Door, 5 Door, and JCW (John Cooper Works) variants. Of the bunch, the middle offering, in the sporty Cooper S trim, is arguably the most sensible choice of the bunch; that’s still loads of fun to drive with some extra space to boot.
“At Mini, the power of choice means that in addition to current and future electric Mini models, we also offer models such as the new Mini Cooper with a gasoline engine. The car is ideal for all those people who want to drive a classic Mini three-door and appreciate the traditional performance and characteristic sound of a combustion engine,” says former global CEO Stefanie Wurst in a media release during the model’s initial reveal in 2024.
Measuring 172 millimeters longer than the 3 Door, the rear seating area is a bit more livable for passengers. The track width is slightly wider, and the wheelbase slightly longer as well, giving the diminutive hatchback added road presence. Exterior design is subtly enhanced, rather than completely reimagined, ensuring the classic appearance is intact.
A new octagonal grille conceals 12 ultrasonic sensors, and the smoked round LED headlights now each house dual horizontal daytime running light elements, while the rears take on a trapezoidal shape. Both lamps feature customizable signatures and approach/depart animations. Bundle the JCW Performance Package (+ $4,000) and there are all kinds of extra goodies, including 18-inch 2-tone alloy wheels, adaptive sport suspension, body aero, and special badging.
Similar to its siblings, a large 9.4-inch central display assumes all instrument cluster and infotainment duties. The circular layout looks pretty, but doesn’t quite work with things like Apple CarPlay, as the format reduces the real estate and makes text and graphics smaller. Fortunately, the pop-up head-up display means you don’t have to glance at the dash to see how fast you’re going.
The dash upholstery is made from an interesting recycled polyester fabric containing illuminated contrast graphic patterns knit in. Although most physical switches and buttons have been transitioned to the virtual kind, the ones remaining—especially the turn signal stalk—possess a nice, click-y tactile feel. The center console could use some additional storage space, though.
Performance is not an issue for the Cooper S, boasting a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, making 201 horsepower (an increase of 12 compared to the outgoing version) and 221 lb-ft of torque. Acceleration is so zippy that things can get a little dicey by applying too much gas on wet Vancouver days. However, once you get going, the burbling engine notes are simply superb.
When Go-Kart mode (yes, that’s what it’s called) is activated, the aforementioned adaptive suspension automatically tightens, steering firms up, and throttle sensitivity is heightened, making the Mini a real hoot to whip through corners. And thanks to an uber-efficient powertrain, even flogging the car on multiple occasions, I never broke an average of 10.0 L/100 km of fuel economy driving in mixed city and highway conditions.
In stores now, the 2025 Mini Cooper S 5 Door starts at a retail price of $40,900.
Highlights (as tested):
MSRP: $44,990
Motor: 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder
Horsepower: 201 @ 5,000 rpm
Torque (lb-ft): 221 @ 1,450 rpm
Gearbox: seven-speed dual-clutch automatic
Layout: front-wheel drive
Fuel economy: 9.8 L/100 km mixed city/highway (observed)