Latest news with #MiniCooper
The Drive
3 days ago
- Automotive
- The Drive
2025 Mini Cooper JCW Pros and Cons Review: Fun To Drive, Annoying To Live With
The latest car news, reviews, and features. The 2025 Mini Cooper JCW is one of the more interesting new cars you can buy in the $40,000 range right now. Despite ditching the optional manual transmission for 2025, I have to admit I enjoyed driving this new model even more than the previous one. However, as is often the problem with Minis, I really hated some of its quirks and poor tech experience. The car still runs a 2.0-liter, turbo-four, but the new model makes considerably more torque, and the six-speed manual and eight-speed auto transmissions have been replaced by a new seven-speed dual-clutch unit. Andrew P. Collins JCW, or John Cooper Works, is the high-performance model in the Mini lineup. John Cooper did not invent the Mini, but he prepped them for racing and made them cool back in the '60s. John Cooper Works, founded by his son, Michael Cooper, was established as an in-house tuner around the turn of the millennium when Mini was relaunched as a BMW brand. JCW itself was officially acquired by BMW later in 2006. Since then, there's been a JCW trim of every new Mini generation. Comments around this Mini are largely dismissive—mostly along the lines of, 'too expensive,' 'too slow,' 'no manual no care.' The car may not be exceptionally exciting on paper, but it's a hell of a lot of fun in real life. It has the lightweight, tossable, boosted feeling of a dialed-in tuner car, which is exactly what a JCW should be. I love rowing my own gears, but the dual-clutch is very satisfying to snap through with the paddle shifters. And it's very deft in fully automatic mode. 'Street-legal go-kart' is Mini's schtick, and I think the people who made this car did a surprisingly good job of baking a feeling of rowdiness into it without making it feel cheap—with the exception of the sound effects, which I'll come back to later. Andrew P. Collins The supportive sport seats keep your butt and torso firmly held in place while cornering hard, allowing you to focus on what your hands are doing with the steering wheel. I experienced a little torque-steer under aggressive acceleration in some instances, but didn't find it particularly bothersome or prevalent. Understeer, another annoying trait you often find in sporty front-drive cars, is more of a pain point when it happens, though you have to be pushing the car pretty hard to induce it. More importantly, you can have loads of fun without stepping too far into police-attention territory. Likewise, the brakes are great, solid stopping power but not overly eager to spill your coffee. Even with its cloth materials and lack of a normal gauge cluster, the Mini feels more upscale than the FWD-hot hatch icon Honda Civic Type R, and much more upscale than a Toyota GR Corolla. So if you're cross-shopping other sport compacts, the premium you pay for this comes with tangible benefits some people will appreciate. The car gained a little weight this year, yes, but it is still about 3,000 pounds before anybody climbs in. The torque increase for 2025 from 236 lb-ft to 280 lb-ft is definitely palpable. The car digs out of a slow roll much harder than the previous model. Bramble the dog was color-matched to this Mini. Andrew P. Collins The 2025 model also feels a little firmer than the 2024 I spent a week roaming around Wales in last year. But unlike an actual go-kart, the ride quality's damn good. You'll still want to avoid potholes, but I found the new Mini JCW quite comfortable for longer drives on okay roads of New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. The design is pretty much perfect—Mini hasn't really messed with the look of its core two-door Cooper models since the brand was re-launched over 20 years ago, and as far as I'm concerned, that's a good thing. A Mini coupe, like a Porsche 911 or Jeep Wrangler, has an iconic look that just feels right as-is. As for cargo and rear passenger space, well, it's limited but not terrible. I'm a scrawny six feet tall and could sit in the back no problem. I was able to take a weekend trip with my wife and dog and fit our two overnight bags behind the back seats. Much like the Mini's basic shape hasn't changed, neither has the luggage capacity. The exterior gets some cosmetic tweaks for 2025, but the cabin is where you'll really notice aesthetic changes. The circular infotainment screen, a Mini hallmark for some time, is now bigger than ever and loaded with more whimsy than Paddington Bear eating a marmalade sandwich in a hot air balloon. Besides ditching the manual transmission, however, Mini killed another feature I really liked: the steering column-mounted gauge cluster. Now you can only get vehicle information from the heads-up display (which is still projected on a small sub-screen, not the windshield), or the moon-sized circular infotainment screen, which is awful. When you first start the car, you're treated to an unbelievably long animation ceremony featuring a little cartoon bulldog who appears like Clippy in an old Microsoft Word document. Mercifully, you can deactivate this, but it sets the tone for what your experience with Mini's software is going to be like; lots of head-scratching at lights and colors that serve absolutely no purpose. The worst part is that the system's so busy dancing and singing that it kind of sucks at basic functionality. The interface has so much cheesy nonsense like transition animations, theme songs, and more. Aesthetically, it's quite customizable, except, for some reason, Mini puts arbitrary guardrails that really annoyed me. When you cycle through a bunch of different visual skins, which Mini calls 'Experiences,' you can set which one you want to be your default. I liked the Go-Kart experience most, but it wouldn't let me set it as a default—I had to pick something else. Even deeper in the customization menu, I found a display I liked even more—a simple speedometer. Not only can that not be a default, but if you want to use it every time you drive, you have to dig through multiple menus to find it. Why? Even some of the conceptually cooler features are hampered by manufactured digital drama. There's a Boost mode that Mini claims will crank up boost pressure to increase power by 10 percent for 10 seconds, which is a neat idea, but when you activate it, the screen shifts to an insanely distracting animated countdown from 10—every second, the background changes and moves. What the heck were they thinking? Finally, the Mini's most egregious try-hard feature: fake exhaust burbles played inside the cabin. Hearing it recorded through my phone and then played on your headphones won't capture the effect—you'll have to take my word for it that it's decidedly artificial sounding and quite cringey. Mini might call it some kind of enhancement, but it's a song played purely for entertainment. Outside, the car simply sounds like it's minding its own business. As much as I hated fiddling with Mini's misguided attempt to make a unique digital interface, I really enjoyed driving the car. I love that it's taut but comfortable, both in terms of the interior appointments and the way it rides. It feels quick and fun without being terrifying or taking you to Ticket Town every time you step on it. Visibility is good, driving posture and position are great, and if you travel with only one more person, there's plenty of room for cargo. Andrew P. Collins The Mini JCW isn't superior to its more high-end rivals, the $45,000 and up VW Golf R, Toyota GR Corolla, Honda Civic Type R, and Acura Integra Type S. However, I can understand why somebody would pick this over those. It looks great, feels good, and has a little more Euro aura than the other cars I just mentioned. Not everyone's going to have the patience to live with Mini's current interface, it'll be a deal-breaker for some people. But even without three pedals, the Mini Cooper JCW is one of my favorite cars this year so far. Maybe next time I'll just pull the fuse for that dumb fake exhaust sound. 2025 Mini Cooper JCW Specs Base Price (As Tested) $38,900 ($45,475) Powertrain 2.0 I4 Turbo | FWD | 7-Speed DCT Horsepower 228 Torque 280 lb-ft Seating Capacity 4 Cargo Volume 8.9 cubic feet Curb Weight 3,047 pounds 0-60 5.9 seconds Top Speed 155 mph EPA Fuel Economy 27 city | 37 highway | 30 combined Score 8/10 Great to drive, annoying to use. Still a uniquely charming option in this niche category of sports cars.
Daily Mirror
4 days ago
- Automotive
- Daily Mirror
Motoring expert says this 'impressive' used car blows all competition away
A used car expert has commented on a used car that won awards when new, but is now a popular model on the second hand vehicle market A used car expert has highlighted how impressive one popular small car, claiming that few rivals can match the vehicle. Motoring enthusiasts are often giving tips for people looking for new vehicles on what to aim for. Just recently, an expert claimed one used car is "the most reliable" in the world. But now another car has come to the fore – the Mini Cooper. The vehicle was reinvigorated as a brand and motor vehicle when it was revived by BMW in the early-2000s. Since the car was brought back to life, now as the MINI, it has become a hit among millions of drivers around the world. As a result, it has become a fan favourite on the used car market for it's smart handling and reliability. Discussing the car, Auto Express ' Richard Dredge praised the Anglo-German model. He said: 'In 2016 the MINI was crowned Best Premium Small Car at our New Car Awards for the third time in a row. It was our overall Car of the Year in 2014. Then and now, the MINI is up against some stiff competition, but we reckon that none of its rivals can match the ever-popular model's cheeky looks, efficient engines, engaging dynamics and low running costs.' On which version of the MINI people should buy, Richard said it all depended on what option packs you were after and whether one would be happy with a manual or automatic gearbox, but recommended the Cooper. He explained: 'Air-con had to be specified at the time of ordering as a no-cost option on the One/One D and Cooper/Cooper D models, so check it's fitted. The One is spartan, so we'd go for at least a Cooper. 'Pin down what options or option packs are included on any potential purchase; the list is extensive. The Pepper and Chili packs bring different features depending on the trim level.' He also noted it was "impressive" how high the MINI MK3 ranked in AutoExpress' survey among owners. Whilst the MINI as a brand may be strong in the UK, there is uncertainty over the future of its Oxford plant. Earlier this year, in February, it was announced that parent-company BMW had announced a decision to delay the reintroduction of electric car production at the facility. In a statement, they said: 'Plant Oxford is at the heart of Mini production, manufacturing and exporting a range of models, which are sought after in the UK and around the world. "However, given the multiple uncertainties facing the automotive industry, the BMW Group is currently reviewing the timing for reintroducing battery-electric Mini production in Oxford. 'We have informed the UK government of our decision to review the timeline for reintroducing battery-electric production in Oxford. "As part of this discussion, we agreed not to take the previously announced grant, but we remain in close dialogue about our future plans."
Scottish Sun
6 days ago
- Scottish Sun
Popular Scots water park to open EARLY following major revamp
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A POPULAR Scottish water park is set to welcome visitors in days after bosses revealed it was ready to reopen early after a major makeover. The Time Capsule in Coatbridge, North Lanarkshire, closed its doors back in March to allow essential upgrades to be carried out to its water feature. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 1 The Time Capsule in Coatbridge is set to reopen in days Credit: John Kirkby - The Sun Glasgow The waterpark, which was recently crowned the best in Scotland, is located just 25 minutes outside of Glasgow. There is a 25m swimming pool, a Tsunami wavepool, and a Riptide River, and also boasts a wave machine, fun flumes and other 'unique' rides. And the upgrades to the much-loved attraction have seen new pumps and blowers installed to improve the waterfalls and river rapids. The revamp has also seen the full electrical system upgraded, which includes the installation of new wiring that stretches for over a mile. Brand-new colour-changing LED underwater lighting was also installed in some areas to brighten the pool. Repairs were also carried out around the waterpark as part of the works. We're really pleased to be welcoming people back to the Time Capsule. These improvements make visiting the water park a more enjoyable experience for everyone Councillor Geraldine Woods This included new tiles being laid, fixes to the river rapid slides, and new soft rubber flooring being out down in both the Splashdown Island and Coral Cove areas. Even the shower areas have been refreshed to provide a more welcoming space for guests. The upgrades were initially expected to take up to six months. But council chiefs have now revealed that the waterpark will reopen this Friday, on July 19, according to Glasgow Times. I went to France to visit the world's best waterpark Despite the early opening, some parts of the water park are still closed because they are still being worked on. The huge yellow flume and big tipping bucket are still undergoing maintenance. But visitors will be able to use the purple flume when the attraction opens this weekend. Councillor Geraldine Woods, convener of community services, told Glasgow Times: 'We're really pleased to be welcoming people back to the Time Capsule. "These improvements make visiting the water park a more enjoyable experience for everyone. BEST IN SCOTLAND THE Time Capsule attracts over 700,000 visitors each year and remains one of Lanarkshire's most popular attractions. The leisure complex includes a fully equipped gym, an ice rink and a soft play area. And last month it was named on Time Out's list of the UK's top pools. Time Out said: "Glasgow might not be the first location that springs to mind when you think of waterparks, but at the Time Capsule, they have some unique rides. "The Tornado Tantrum flue is so large you could fit a Mini Cooper inside, so there's plenty of room for you and four mates to whizz down together. "There's also a ten-metre-high Storm Chaser: twin flumes named Thunder and Lightning, where you can challenge a friend and see who comes out first." Entry fees range from £3.55 to £6.85 per person. 'Now that the first phase is nearly done, we are delighted to announce that we are once again taking bookings.' It comes a few weeks after bosses at Active NL shared a video on social media giving a sneak peek behind the scenes of the revamp. At the time, they said they were hoping to open sometime this month. In the caption, they added: "It's been a busy few months recharging the Time Capsule waterpark and we are delighted to announce that we anticipate the reopening to be late July. "As we enter the final stages of the most significant upgrade to the waterpark in over 30 years, we're excited to welcome visitors back. "While some of the features such as the tipping bucket won't be in action yet, we are committed to a phased programme of work to restore them." They thanked visitors for their "understanding and patience" during the upgrades phase.
New York Post
7 days ago
- New York Post
Long Island man killed in crash, while Suffolk cop car responding to scene is struck: police
A man was killed in a rollover car crash on Long Island early Monday morning — and two people were injured when a responding cop car was struck in a separate incident moments later, police said. Anthony Guglielmo, 56, was driving his Mini Copper when it collided with a Jeep traveling westbound on Grand Boulevard in Deer Park around 3:45 a.m., Suffolk County police said. Guglielmo, of Deer Park, was rushed to Good Samaritan University Hospital in West Islip where he died, police said. The driver of the Jeep, identified as Stefanie Russo, 37, was taken to the same hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. 4 A man was killed and three people, including a police officer, were injured in two crashes minutes apart Monday morning. 4 The Mini Cooper driver was rushed to the hospital where he was pronounced dead. Seth Gottfried 4 A Suffolk County Police Department vehicle was struck while responding to the initial crash. Seth Gottfried 4 The cause of the crash is under investigation. Seth Gottfried A Suffolk County cop responding to the fatal crash in a marked cop with sirens flashing was struck minutes later by a Ford van at 3:51 a.m. at the intersection of Deer Park and Lake avenues. Both drivers were also taken to Good Samaritan with non-life-threatening injuries. The crashes are under investigation, police said.
Time of India
13-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
World's most expensive cheese sets record at ₹36 lakh, here's what makes it special
Cheese lovers, take a deep breath because this one might surprise even the most seasoned turophile. A single block of Spanish blue cheese has just made history by selling for more than the cost of a brand-new Mini Cooper. Yes, you read that right. The world's most expensive cheese, a 2.3 kg piece of cave-aged Cabrales, went under the hammer for over ₹36 lakh at an auction in Asturias, Spain, setting a fresh Guinness World Record. So what makes this cheese worth its weight in gold? For starters, Cabrales is no ordinary cheese. It is a strong blue cheese made from cow's milk and aged high in the Picos de Europa mountains. But not just anywhere in the mountains — this one was matured inside the Los Mazos cave, nearly 5,000 feet above sea level. The special mix of cool air and steady humidity in the cave gives the cheese its bold flavour and signature green-blue veins that blue cheese fans adore. It was crafted by the Ángel Díaz Herrero cheese factory, a family-run setup known for staying true to old-school methods. The block was aged for ten months before being entered into the annual Cabrales cheese competition, a highly respected event where the region's best cheeses are put to the test. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo A panel of expert tasters sampled entries from fifteen producers before selecting this one as the winner. The auction was full of excitement, with well-known bidders from across Spain trying to take home the prized block. It finally went to Iván Suárez, owner of the restaurant El Llagar de Colloto, who has now taken the top bid for five years in a row. For him, it is not just about prestige. It is about honouring local tradition and celebrating fine artisanal food. What makes Cabrales even more special is how it is made. Raw milk is mixed by hand, wrapped in natural cloth, and carried up to caves where it slowly matures. The cheese soaks in the unique qualities of the cave, including the air, the rocks, and the natural microbes, developing a rich, creamy, and complex taste that sets it apart from anything store-bought. Beyond the headlines and the record price, Cabrales is a reminder of real craftsmanship. In a world that moves quickly and prefers mass production, this cheese shows the value of time, care, and tradition. It is rich in calcium, full of flavour, and like many fermented foods, can also help with digestion and gut health when eaten in small amounts. And if this story has sparked your curiosity about artisanal cheese but not the price tag, you still have options. India now has a growing number of homegrown cheesemakers who focus on quality over quantity. Or better yet, you can make your own. All you need is full-fat milk, lemon juice or vinegar, and a little patience to make soft, fresh paneer. If you want to try something more advanced, use rennet to make homemade mozzarella or ricotta. It may not break records, but it will definitely be the star of your next meal.
