MINI John Cooper Works Favoured 2025 Review

The MINI Cooper 3-Door range kicks off with the Cooper C, available in three trim levels: Core, Classic, and Favoured. The Core starts from $41,990 plus on-road costs (ORCs) and includes LED headlights, a 240mm OLED central touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and 16-inch alloy wheels.

The Cooper S is available in two variants – Classic and Favoured – with the Classic starting from $49,990 plus ORCs. It features a more potent 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 141kW, along with larger wheels, upgraded trim, and additional comfort and convenience features as standard.

The performance-focused MINI JCW Classic sits above that at $57,990 plus ORCs, featuring a 170kW/380Nm 2.0-litre engine, adaptive suspension, JCW sports brakes, and 18-inch alloy wheels.

Finally, the MINI JCW Favoured tested here is priced from $60,990 plus ORCs, with the convertible topping out the range at $64,990 plus ORCs. Both come equipped with the same punchy 2.0-litre engine and seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, powering the front wheels. The JCW will sprint from 0-100km/h in a brisk 6.1 seconds.

Equipment highlights include a panoramic sunroof, heated front JCW sports seats, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a booming 12-speaker Harman Kardon stereo that fills the compact cabin with clarity and punch. A large 240mm circular OLED touchscreen dominates the dashboard and is home to most vehicle functions, including MINI Experience Modes, augmented reality navigation, and ambient lighting.

The JCW doesn’t skimp on safety either. It comes with a full suite of active safety tech including autonomous emergency braking (AEB), blind-spot and lane-change warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, rear cross-traffic alert with brake intervention, and a surround-view camera system. There’s also an interior camera for added security.

Rounding out the ownership proposition, MINI offers a five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty, five years of roadside assistance, and optional capped-price servicing – all of which align the brand with key competitors in the premium small car space.

Changing a MINI is a bit like trying to renovate a heritage-listed house – it must be calculated and considered without altering the original character. Every update must walk a fine line between modernisation and preservation. Thankfully, MINI has done a meaningful job updating the latest-generation John Cooper Works. The proportions, personality, and design cues remain unmistakably MINI – only now, it’s better equipped, more refined, and more capable than ever.

MINI has worked hard to refine the go-kart formula – and it shows. There are small but significant gains everywhere: stiffer bushings, retuned dampers, additional negative camber on the front axle, and new tuning for the electronic power steering. Throw in the Continental SportContact 7 tyres – standard on the Favoured variant tested here but optional on the base Classic – and it all clicks.

Turn-in is sharper, grip builds progressively, and the car is more confidence inspiring when hustled along a tight backroad or pushed at a track day. If you’re at the dealership, ask specifically for these tyres. They genuinely transform the JCW’s on-track performance and elevate the driving experience to something far more focused and rewarding.

The steering feels heavier and more deliberate on-centre now but remains responsive and engaging when loaded up mid-corner. Feedback through the wheel is solid, especially for an electric system. And the car’s balance – with its firmed-up spring rates and tweaked corner brake control – rewards smooth and aggressive drivers alike. It’s a classic MINI trait, refined.

On track, you can really lean on the chassis. Body roll is minimal, and the JCW’s reprogrammed yaw control helps it stay composed even when provoked. Lift-off mid-corner and the nose tucks in with a cheeky eagerness that reminds you just how compact and playful this car is. With the sticky rubber optioned, it feels glued to the road.

The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission does its job without fuss. In manual mode via paddles, it’s snappy and decisive. Leave it to its own devices and it rarely puts a foot wrong.

Engine performance is equally strong, with 170kW and 380Nm on tap. It’s not the most dramatic powertrain in the segment, but the linear torque delivery and rev-happy nature of the engine mean it’s a joy to wring out.

Ride quality is firm, though tolerable. It’s a compromise that suits the car’s intent – taut, sporty, but doesn’t rearrange your spine. The JCW Sport brakes are reassuring underfoot, with a progressive pedal and consistent stopping power under repeated hard use.

Cabin-wise, the JCW balances funky with functional. The recycled-fabric dashboard, ambient lighting modes, and large OLED screen give it a tech-forward vibe, while the signature JCW accents bring the flair. There’s limited space in the rear, sure, but the front seat ergonomics are great and the driving position is low and purposeful.

For fans of the badge, this is good news. MINI has stayed true to its roots – this thing still corners like a champ and entertains like few others in its segment can. It’s grown up but it hasn’t lost its cheeky edge.

No manual gearbox. That decision alone could be a dealbreaker for long-time fans of the JCW badge. While the dual-clutch auto is sharp and intuitive, the absence of a stick shift removes some of the analogue charm enthusiasts still crave.

The fake exhaust note – while entertaining – might frustrate those who prefer authentic acoustics. It sounds great, but knowing it’s pumped through the speakers can take the edge off the experience.

Another niggle is the lack of electric front seat adjustment in the base Classic variant – a strange omission at this price point.

Rear seat space is extremely limited. Access is tricky thanks to the three-door layout and electric front seats, and once you’re back there, legroom is minimal. It’s fine for small children, but not much more. Boot space is similarly constrained at 210 litres, expanding to 725L with the seats folded, and there’s no spare tyre – just a repair kit and sealant.

That said, no one buys a MINI JCW for its practicality. Compromises are part of the charm – but they’re worth noting all the same.

If you want a compact car that’s packed with personality, genuinely fun to drive, and loaded with tech, the 2025 MINI JCW Favoured should be high on your list. It delivers a polished, premium experience without losing the signature MINI character.

Yes, it’s expensive for its size. And yes, there are more practical or powerful options out there for similar money. But few offer the same blend of heritage, handling, and hot-hatch charisma.

The JCW Favoured might not be perfect, but for the right buyer – someone who values fun, flair, and uniqueness – it still hits the mark. The updates to equipment, safety, and interior tech make this the most complete and approachable JCW yet.

It’s one of the most engaging small cars on the market, and it still knows how to put a smile on your face every time you drive it.

2025 MINI John Cooper Works Favoured at a glance:
Price: $60,990 (plus on-road costs)
Available: Now
Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol
Output: 170kW/380Nm
Transmission: Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic
Fuel: 6.8L/100km (ADR Combined)
CO2: 155g/km
Safety rating: Not tested

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