Experienced by Kimatni D. Rawlins
The versatile MINI family is back with a bevy of updated and all-new vehicles for 2025 that garner attention wherever they roam. From all-electric variants to convertibles to performance-happy trims, there is literally a MINI type for every genre of MINI customer. The brand’s eclectic individualization knows no bounds.
The MINI Formula
Since 1959 MINI has attracted various drivers who love thrilling mobility in small packages. It started that way and continues with the new MINI family presented in endless forms of expression. Whether it’s a MINI SUV known as the Countryman, a MINI Cooper S Convertible, or a John Cooper Works that excites aesthetically and mechanically, each will provide you with go-kart exhilaration, fun-to-drive characteristics, confident self-expression, and endless customization capabilities.
A MINI is more than an automotive product; it’s an extension of your lifestyle and the values you represent. No matter how diverse, MINI brings people together to celebrate in unison. One prominent example is the MINI TAKES THE STATES rally that happens bi-annually with thousands of owners who parade across the country in an organized and whimsical fashion.
The Savannah Vibe
MINI invited media to Savannah to experience the new lineup around the historic allure, nature, and sites of the coastal Georgia city. Parted from South Carolina by the 301-mile Savannah River, I enjoyed my time here while running through Forsyth Park and along the charming cobblestone streets, taking in the energy of the Historic Landmark District, and admiring the antebellum architecture of the town. Savannah is chill, vibrant, and unique in structure and presentation. Whether visiting the First African Baptist Church, Davenport House Museum, the SCAD Museum of Art or partaking in the 40 Acres and a Mule Tour, it’s a fascinating walking city for rediscovery.
MINI Electric
The scenery was ideal for our MINI rides since they fit perfectly with the vibe. My drive partner Brian Armstead—who is 6’9″ and seats comfortably in every MINI—selected a British Racing Green MINI Countryman SE ALL4 to get the procession going. The “E” in “SE” denotes electric and “ALL4” signifies all-wheel drive. What’s so cool about MINI is that no matter what model you select, the MINI formula remains the same, such as the classic hexagon grille, bulldog stance with the wheels pushed to the corners, round bubble lights, and inside the cabin, the circular center display, trendy textiles and trim, and clever switches and straps for handles. You will even find a strap on the steering wheel.
Pivotal emphasis will be on MINI’s largest models (Countryman S and Countryman SE), which are longer and taller and rebuilt from the ground up for active families. The compact SUV will help engaged owners thrive in both the city and the countryside, especially with increased interior room for gear and equipment and ALL4 to take on any terrain type and adverse weather. It also represents the first MINI with Level 2 assistance systems for semi-automated driving, if that’s your thing. It’s definitely not mine because I want to control my ride at all times.
The MINI SUV is ignited by two electric motors with a total output of 308-horsepower and 364 lb-ft of torque for a 0-to-60 mph acceleration time of 5.4 seconds. Combined with the 66.5 kWh lithium-ion battery, the Countryman SE can achieve an EPA electric range of up to 212 miles. However, that needs to increase dramatically to appease today’s EV drivers. As part of the EV ownership experience plan to install a Level 2 charger at your home. The fun, entertaining, and youthful 2025 Countryman SE ALL4 captures the essence and mindset of the MINI community, but now with an electrified attitude. Are you ready to ride the electric MINI wave? Pricing starts at $45,200.
John Cooper Works (JCW)
Next was an outing to the Tybee Island Light Station & Museum in our $44,375 (total with options) Ocean Wave Green MINI JCW Hardtop 2 Door featuring the $2,000 Ionic Trim. The trip over was relatively quick thanks to the 2-liter MINI TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder, producing 228-horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a 7-speed Steptronic dual-clutch sport automatic transmission with paddle shifters attached to the thick, sporty steering wheel. Cornering and JCW Sport Brakes were precise. The football-shaped brake pedal is an enthusiastic touch as well. MINI Experience Modes allow you to customize the vehicle’s mannerisms, whether it’s Green, Core, or High Consumption mode. MINI also added a Go-Kart mode for more aggression. Additionally, the center-mounted JCW exhaust tip’s notes sound good.
A few comfort amenities include the 12-speaker Harmon/Kardon 365 surround sound audio system, split panoramic sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, Teleservices and Emergency Call in the event of an accident, ambient interior lighting, and the new 9.4” OLED infotainment touchscreen (in partnership with Samsung) featuring an array of interfaces. Along with MINI Operating System 9, MINI provides all the necessary information for an intuitive drive. From here, you control the entertainment features, MINI Navigation, assistance systems, MINI Driving Sounds, and a video recorder. But don’t expect to travel with more than two people total because backseat legroom is next to non-existent in the MINI JCW Hardtop 2 Door.
MINI Convertible Life
MINI produces three convertibles, dubbed MINI Cooper Convertible ($33,950), MINI Cooper S Convertible ($37,200), and MINI John Cooper Works Convertible ($43,700). They embrace a minimalist silhouette to reflect adventure and versatility while you view the scene from all perspectives. Styling is robust (especially the JCW) but streamlined with a simplified power-dome hood, the octagonal-shaped grille, new signature lights, light alloy rims, and vertical LED taillamps. We jumped in a 2025 MINI Cooper S Convertible in Sunny Side Yellow to parade around town. The feeling of flamboyancy was an understatement. To show it off, we cruised to see the Gothic-Revival Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, Savannah City Market, American Prohibition Museum, River Street, and the Plant Riverside District. Expect 30 combined miles per gallon from the MINI Cooper S Convertible.
MINI’s philosophy of Charismatic Simplicity will dictate the design direction, focusing on three key elements: an intelligent command center, a sporty and thick multifunction steering wheel, and toggle switches. The vertical exterior theme follows in the interior, including the vents and door handles. Leather-free upholstery and human-centric amenities are additionally implemented. In-car tech continues with cloud-based mapping, personal mode to upload photos, and an optional interior camera. MINI went even further by offering the Always Open Timer to showcase how much time you drove topless. By the way, the fully automatic MINI Yours Softtop opens in 18 seconds and in three positions: fully open, partially open, or with the integrated sunroof.
A MINI is a unique vehicle for a unique customer. Whether owners select a MINI Countryman or a MINI Cooper S they will be appeased by the classic design themes, sporty proportions, and exhilaration of these lifestyle vehicles. Therefore, make sure to secure a MINI on your next excursion to Savannah, GA.
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