2025 Mini John Cooper Works hot hatch spotted

Mini's redesigned Cooper hatchback will go on sale later this year as a 2025 model, but only the gas-powered version will initially be introduced in the United States. No timing has been announced for the electric version, but it is likely to be in 2026, when Mini's UK plant will begin producing EVs. Currently, EVs are produced only in China.

The gasoline version was revealed in February, but only in base and Cooper S grades. The high-performance John Cooper Works grade is still being tested, and we have obtained spy shots of a prototype.

Clear indications that it is a JCW include additional intakes in the front mask, a front splitter, chunky side skirts, a roof-mounted rear wing, and red brake calipers. The rear diffuser also has a single exhaust port coming out of the center.

The electric Cooper will also get the JCW treatment, and a prototype of this model has been spotted previously.

The electric version of the redesigned Cooper is based on a newly developed EV-specific platform, while the gas version is essentially a major update of the current Cooper. In other words, the gas-powered version of the JCW should be powered by the previous generation's 2.0-liter turbo four, probably with a slight horsepower increase over the old model's 228 hp.

Drive should be front-wheel only via an 8-speed automatic transmission. A manual option is not planned. Mini has confirmed that the 2024 model year will be the last for the manual. The limited edition 2024 JCW 1to6 Edition launched last May marked the end of manual transmissions in the Mini.

For the 2025 model year, a redesigned JCW Countryman with 312 hp has already been revealed. This model will be introduced to U.S. dealers in May, with prices starting at just under $48,000; a JCW convertible is also planned; and the JCW Countryman will be available in the U.S. for $48,000.