The MINI Countryman John Cooper Works (JCW) represents the sportiest version of MINI’s largest SUV. While the standard Countryman appeals to families who want space and practicality, the JCW badge injects a dose of racing heritage and excitement. Competing with the likes of the Audi SQ2, Volkswagen T-Roc R, and Mercedes-AMG GLA 35, the Countryman JCW brings performance, all-wheel drive, and distinctive MINI styling into the compact premium SUV space.
This review explores whether the MINI Countryman JCW is worth the hype, covering its design, performance, practicality, technology, running costs, and pricing in detail.
Exterior Design
At first glance, the Countryman JCW sets itself apart from its standard sibling with a bold and sporty design package. It features:
- A gloss black grille with MINI’s chequered-flag detailing
- Large front air intakes with red accents
- JCW-specific alloy wheels (19- or 20-inch)
- Red brake calipers for added visual drama
- JCW badging on the C-pillars
Despite being longer and taller than its predecessor, the Countryman JCW still carries MINI’s quirky personality with chunky proportions and compact SUV stance.
Summary Table
Category |
Details |
|---|---|
Model |
MINI Countryman JCW (John Cooper Works) |
Engine |
2.0L 4-cylinder turbo petrol |
Power/Torque |
300 hp / 440 Nm |
0–62 mph |
5.4 seconds |
Top Speed |
155 mph (limited) |
Drivetrain |
ALL4 AWD, 7-speed DCT |
Boot Space |
505L (1,530L seats folded) |
MPG (official) |
36.2 mpg |
CO2 Emissions |
177–188 g/km |
Price Range (UK) |
£42,750 – £47,950 |
Official Website |
Interior and Technology
Step inside, and you’re greeted with an interior that feels like no other SUV in its segment. Key highlights include:
- A 9.4-inch fully circular OLED infotainment screen, the first of its kind in a production car
- MINI’s new fabric-covered dashboard with intricate detailing
- Sporty red stitching, JCW-branded seats, and metal pedals
- Ambient lighting to match the energetic personality
The infotainment system is visually striking, but can be slightly cluttered, especially when using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, which must adapt to the circular screen. Still, MINI includes a head-up display as standard to reduce reliance on the central display.
Practical touches include sliding rear seats, wireless charging, multiple USB-C ports, and a generous 505-litre boot.
Performance and Driving Experience
Under the bonnet lies a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine producing 300 hp and 440 Nm of torque. Power is delivered through a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox and MINI’s ALL4 all-wheel-drive system.
Performance figures are impressive:
- 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) in 5.4 seconds
- Top speed of 155 mph (limited)
In the City
The Countryman JCW is surprisingly easy to maneuver, thanks to good visibility and a compact footprint for an SUV. However, the stiff suspension setup makes speed bumps and rough roads less forgiving.
On the Motorway
At higher speeds, the JCW feels refined. The gearbox is smooth, and the engine cruises effortlessly. Wind and tyre noise are noticeable due to the wide tyres and upright body, but not disruptive.
On Twisty Roads
Switch to Go-Kart Mode, and the Countryman JCW sharpens up significantly. The steering becomes weightier, throttle response livelier, and the gearbox holds gears longer. Grip is excellent, but driving purists may find it lacks some steering feedback and exhaust drama.
Practicality and Space
For a performance SUV, the Countryman JCW is impressively spacious:
- Front Seats: Supportive JCW sport seats with heating as standard
- Rear Seats: Sliding bench for flexible legroom and cargo balance
- Boot Space: 505 litres (1,530 litres with seats folded) – larger than rivals like the Audi SQ2 or VW T-Roc R
Isofix points, wide rear doors, and a flat loading bay make it child-seat and family-friendly.
Running Costs
Performance comes at a price when it comes to efficiency:
- Official economy: 36.2 mpg
- CO2 emissions: 177–188 g/km
- Real-world economy often drops below 30 mpg when driven hard
This places it in a higher tax bracket for both private and company car drivers.
Safety and Reliability
The new Countryman shares much of its architecture with the BMW X1, which scored five stars in Euro NCAP testing. Safety features include:
- Lane-keeping assistance
- Adaptive cruise control
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Multiple airbags and ISOFIX points
MINI offers a three-year unlimited mileage warranty, which is competitive in this class.
Pricing and Equipment
The MINI Countryman JCW starts at £42,750, with prices reaching £47,950 depending on options. Compared to rivals, it represents strong value:
- Audi SQ2: from ~£45,000
- Volkswagen T-Roc R: from ~£45,500
- Mercedes-AMG GLA 35: from ~£50,000
Equipment Highlights
- Standard: Adaptive LED headlights, head-up display, heated front seats, keyless entry
- Level 2 Pack (+£2,500): Panoramic sunroof, larger wheels, extra driver aids
- Level 3 Pack (+£2,700): Electric front seats, Parking Assistant Plus, interior camera, augmented reality navigation
FAQs
Is the MINI Countryman JCW a good car?
Yes, it offers a rare blend of sporty performance, family practicality, and distinctive MINI design.
How fast is the MINI Countryman JCW?
It can accelerate from 0–62 mph in 5.4 seconds, making it one of the quickest compact SUVs in its class.
What is the fuel economy of the JCW?
Official figures claim 36.2 mpg, but real-world driving may be lower depending on usage.
How much does the MINI Countryman JCW cost?
Prices start at £42,750 and rise to around £47,950 with option packs.
Is the Countryman JCW spacious enough for families?
Yes, it has a roomy interior, sliding rear seats, and a 505-litre boot, making it practical for family use.
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