Revving Up 2025: The Bold and Zesty MINI Cooper S Hits the US Market
February's early unveiling of the gasoline-powered MINI Cooper hatchback left automotive enthusiasts buzzing with anticipation. Now, the wait is over as the MINI Cooper S, affectionately known as "F66," lands with a roar on American soil. Unlike European counterparts, who have a choice between the power tiers, Americans are treated to the mightier Cooper S variant right off the bat, boasting a robust four-cylinder engine that pumps out an impressive 201 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque, aligning perfectly with its European version for an unparalleled driving experience.
The 2025 Cooper S embarks on the journey sans manual transmission, embracing a dual-clutch seven-speed automatic transmission instead. Nestled under its hood is BMW’s venerable 2.0-liter B48 engine, propelling the not-just-a-hot-hatch to 60 mph in merely 6.3 seconds, capping its speed at a thrilling 130 mph. Patience will reward those craving more oomph and agility, as a John Cooper Works variant is on the horizon, promised to heighten the adrenaline further into its lifecycle.
A Deep Dive into Pricing and Features
With a starting tag of $32,200, exclusive of the obligatory $995 destination and handling fee, this MINI is an indulgence that stands $3,100 above its 2024 predecessor. But, with luxury comes the allure of customization, through a myriad array of options from a warming steering wheel, tire pressure monitoring, to the more sophisticated head-up display and auto-dimming mirrors, not forgetting the premium Harman Kardon surround sound system for the audiophiles. MINI’s additional premium for features like remote engine start, heated and powered front seats, Comfort Access keyless entry, and several others, ensure that your MINI Cooper S is as unique as your taste.
The Cooper S doesn’t stop at individual options, offering the $950 Comfort Package, $1,500 Comfort Package Plus, and a lavish $2,700 Iconic package, bundling a variety of sought-after extras. For the aesthetically inclined, Classic Style and Favoured Style packages permit further personalization, along with an array of wheel designs (17" or 18") complemented by summer, all-season, or runflat tires to match every enthusiast's needs and whims.
Color Your MINI Your Way
Exterior color choices tantalize with options like the vibrant non-metallic Sunny Side Yellow and Chili Red II, along with metallic hues including Ocean Wave Green, Blazing Blue, and several others for a custom look. The interior doesn’t shy away from luxury either, offering vegan upholstery options and combination of vegan and cloth upholstery for a touch of personal flair and responsibility. Mike Peyton, Vice President of MINI of the Americas, captures the essence perfectly, likening the MINI Cooper S to New York’s skyscrapers: compact yet profoundly impactful.
The US market production is underway, with dealerships anticipating the arrival of the first units in May. Additionally, while the F65 MINI Cooper 5-Door’s unveiling is imminent, the “J01” electric 3-Door hatch remains a hopeful future addition for the US market. With the “F67” convertible set to make its debut this fall, and whispers of an electric variant by 2027, the future looks promising for MINI enthusiasts. The 2025 MINI Cooper S ushers in a new era of driving delight, merging iconic design with cutting-edge technology and raw power in a package that’s distinctly MINI.