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2022 MINI John Cooper Works – First Drive

Small Car with a Big Heart

I like to think of MINI’s as go-karts, for adults, making them very fun cars to drive on the open road – and that is especially true with the upgraded John Cooper Works edition that substantially bumps the horsepower up to 228 horsepower as opposed to the standard MINI Cooper at just 134.

Despite its small form factor, it’s got all the things that still makes it a functional car. Going above the norm, the MINI JCW is very posh. Take for example the miniature hood scoop, bubbly headlights and the very cute and unique interior that we’ll talk more about later. To top it all off, the MINI JCW ups the fun factor a few notches with cabriolet model that comes with a retractable roof top.

Other than the Fiat 500 Abarth that has been discontinued since 2018, there aren’t many, if at all, alternatives to choose from that matches the size to power ratio the MINI Cooper JCW has to offer. That also tacks on somewhat of an exclusive price tag at $33,750 for the JCW hard top and an extra $6,000 for the cabriolet retractable soft top.

Powertrain

Wearing the JCW badge is a reminder than this MINI Cooper is no slouch. Under its small hood is a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four that makes 228 horsepower. Hardtop models will get to choose between a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic while the convertible models are limited to just the 8-speed automatic. Just like the rest of the MINI lineup, the JCW is in a front-wheel drive configuration.

Interior

Four words: I Love This Interior. Yes, its’s not the most premium and it’s got a few quirks, but I really think the overall design offers a kid-like fun and refreshing cabin space experience. I absolutely love these aircraft-inspired chrome-tip toggle switches and this flappy engine start switches. The instrument cluster is also one of my favorite pieces of this car with a capsule shaped panel and a fluorescent-color grade LCD screen in the middle. Paying a bit closer attention also reveals a checkered flag pattern at the engine red-line on the tachometer. Finally, there’s a RGB “mood ring” that illuminates and changes color based on driver interaction. For example, it turns bright red when your pressing hard on the throttle, or turns blue when you’re turning on the fan in AC mode.

Powering the infotainment system in the center console is an 8.8″ infotainment display. While it’s menus are basic in nature, it still offers SiriusXM satellite radio, a Harmon Kardon six-speaker stereo system, voice-activated navigation and compatibility with Android Auto and Apple Carplay.

Test Drive and Final Thoughts

The flashy fashion statement, playground interior and peppy acceleration all makes the MINI JCW a fun experience. But with the stiff-tuned suspensions and small cabin, the MINI JCW can be a bit rough on longer drive in which comfort is more favorable. Still, the snappy handling with its small 18″ diameter wheels and trumpet exhaust tone makes the MINI JCW makes for an exhilarating ride.

Specifications

  • Vehicle : 2022 MINI Cooper
  • Model : John Cooper Works Convertible
  • Vehicle Type : Sub Compact
  • Seating Capacity : 2+2
  • Engine : 2.0 Liter Inline 4
  • Transmission : 8-Speed Automatic
  • Price as tested: $39,400 (Base) + $5,8400 (Premier + Package)

Pros

  • Unique design and overall cabin space experience
  • Fun and snappy handling
  • Exceptional exhaust tone

Cons

  • Harsh ride quality
  • Small form factor limits its overall practicality