2025 Mini JCW Electrical | PH Evaluation

On the face of it, there’s a lot to be inspired by with the new Mini JCW Electric. The John Cooper Works badge has lent its identify to some correctly feisty sizzling hatches over the previous 20 years or so, for starters – the current Cooper SE and petrol-powered JCW are first rate sufficient, clearly with some potential left untapped. And the urge for food for electrical sizzling hatches (we assume) has by no means been better, which is the place Mini’s expertise must pay dividends. Given its experience in quick, enjoyable and front-wheel drive, there must be no producer higher positioned to make a 255hp battery-powered pocket rocket. 

Actually, the JCW seems the half, which is to say {that a} barely curious hatchback has been given an appropriately racy overhaul. The crimson accents are well-judged, the model-specific wheels look good, the aero package lends some helpful perspective, and the stance is… OK. It’s crying out for some monitor width and arch flares as a JCW, in fact, although maybe that’ll include a GPe. 

In the event you like the present J01 Mini, it’ll most likely hit the mark, usefully extra thrilling to take a look at than a typical SE (if that purchaser hasn’t plumped for a JCW aerokit). If the Alpine A290 seems like extra your sort of sizzling hatch, this gained’t change your thoughts on that. Inside, the JCW overhaul in all fairness modest – crimson bits and ambient lighting within the headliner are the primary adjustments – however given how effectively the Mini inside blends a way of event with ease of use, that’s no dangerous factor. 

You’re prepared for optimum go-kart really feel in a Mini JCW Electrical, put it that means. Or regardless of the strapline is that this week. Sadly, some vital issues are evident from the off, which is disappointing for anybody with excessive hopes for this automotive primarily based on fond reminiscences of different JCWs. The trip is inexcusable, principally; which could sound like suggesting a canine isn’t for you as a result of it barks – all fashionable Minis have been fairly agency and frenetic, in any case – however with round 300kg of extra kerbweight to handle versus the traditional mannequin, this actually is to a different degree of insufferable. 

Even dawdling down a gravel monitor, the JCW is tense and unyielding, which doesn’t bode effectively. Typically a fantastic automotive will be recognized within the first 50 metres, simply from the best way it steers, rides, and feels at sluggish velocity; the Mini, clearly, is just not a kind of. It looks like driving a dodgem that escaped from the honest, simply you and a seat and regardless of the floor throws up. 

Pace and tarmac don’t actually enhance the state of affairs, each mile characterised by jostling and restlessness. Granted, the petrol-powered JCW was stiff-legged and considerably missing in suspension journey, however these traits are exacerbated right here. It means the Electrical is much more simply deflected by imperfections within the highway, is keener to comply with cambers, and creates a better commotion when attempting to cruise. Regardless of the JCW suspension upgrades have accomplished serves no profit on a B highway, the pitter-patter of each intrusion close to fixed. Ditto the brand new Hankook ion evoR tyres, as a result of a stiffer, grippier electrical Mini is a spikier one because it does transfer round. And that’s not very good. 

Predictably sufficient, the JCW does really feel higher when a smoother little bit of A highway presents itself, although you may be needing the deck of HMS Queen Elizabeth for it to genuinely calm down. And even then the Mini flounders a bit, its tremendous sharp steering unable to masks the truth that this can be a 1,725kg automotive, in some way. Which is 100kg greater than even the Cooper SE. Missing a correct limited-slip diff just like the Alpine means there isn’t the front-end precision anticipated of a range-topping sizzling hatch. Often the brake nibbling does a superb job of maintaining you on monitor, however not all the time. 

As a result of there’s the torque steer to consider, too. A little bit of entrance axle struggle is all a part of the enjoyable in the case of a junior sizzling hatch, certain, and to Mini’s credit score it by no means thumps or tramps – however the steering wheel is simply too simply agitated by 258lb ft. Which is entertaining the primary time it occurs, much less so after some time. It feels unruly, fact be advised. So that you decelerate, in a Mini JCW of all automobiles, involved that both punishing suspension or an overexcited pushed axle will fling you off the highway. 

When there’s an opportunity to make use of the Increase paddle or Go Kart mode for the complete energy quota, the Mini undoubtedly feels usefully brisk, a smidge quicker than the 220hp Alpine regardless of its weight drawback. With an enticing soundtrack as effectively, one completely in sync with throttle utility and velocity. And effectivity is all the time aggressive, comfortably above three miles per kilowatt hour regardless of our greatest efforts. Mini’s regen mode for the transmission is so well-calibrated that it makes you marvel why others battle a lot. The powertrain, as anticipated given Mini’s expertise, is an actual spotlight of the package deal. Only a disgrace about the remainder of it. 

It’s doubly disappointing as a result of the potential is there in a Mini Electrical. The Cooper SE is agency and a bit frisky, however to a suitable degree, bringing some character to a small electrical automotive. The petrol JCW is comparable, and bearable sufficient to do long distances when required. This one, nonetheless, is genuinely carrying in how abruptly it rides. An electric GP might want to considerably enhance on this expertise to justify its premium. 

All of which makes the JCW Electrical very tough to advocate, principally. A troublesome conclusion to succeed in, particularly from somebody who liked earlier generations of the JCW and has loved the present electrical fashions. However in order for you a speedy, battery-powered Mini, the Cooper SE with 40hp much less is a better option – particularly as it may be made to seem like a JCW. Alternatively, automobiles just like the Alpine A290 and Cupra Born VZ are significantly better resolved electrical sizzling hatches. Until your commute is by go-kart monitor, Mini’s efficiency flagship – which begins at round £5k greater than the petrol JCW – is greatest averted. 

Engine: 54.2 kWh battery (gross determine; 49.2kWh internet), single electrical motor
Transmission: Single-speed computerized, front-wheel drive
Energy (hp): 255
Torque (lb ft): 258
0-62mph: 5.9 seconds
High velocity: 106mph
Weight: 1,725kg
MPG: 230 miles WLTP vary, 95kW max cost fee
CO2: 0g/km (driving), 4.1mi/kWh claimed
Value: £38,420 (worth as normal; worth as examined £40,270 comprising Blazing Blue paint for £550 and Degree 2 package deal (Consolation Entry, Panoramic Glass Sunroof,  Solar Safety Glass,  Folding Wing Mirrors with Auto-dimming, Rear-view Mirror with Auto dimming,  Entrance Heated Seats, Adaptive LED Headlights, Excessive-Beam Assistant,  MINI Head-up Show,  Storage for wi-fi charging) for £1,300)