The Heavyweight Bout: MINI Countryman S vs. JCW Countryman
Which of these iconic Sports Activity Vehicles belongs in your driveway?
At Jackie Cooper MINI in Edmond, we know that choosing a MINI is never just about getting from Point A to Point B—it's about how much fun you have in between. With the arrival of Jackie Cooper, most capable MINI models yet, many of our Oklahoma City customers are finding themselves stuck at a crossroads: The MINI Countryman S ALL4 or the high-performance MINI John Cooper Works (JCW) Countryman ALL4.
Both vehicles offer the signature go-kart feeling, premium interiors, and the iconic design that turns heads from Norman to Moore. But they serve two very different kinds of drivers.
In this guide, we're breaking down the specs, the driving dynamics, and the unique personalities of both models to help you decide which one deserves the prime spot in your garage.
Table of Contents
The Contender: MINI Countryman S ALL4
The "Do-It-All" Daily Driver
The MINI Countryman S ALL4 is the perfect balance of power, practicality, and premium comfort. It is designed for the driver who wants the adventurous spirit of a MINI but needs a vehicle that remains composed and efficient for the daily grind or weekend Broadway Extension.
Performance & Specs
Don't let the "S" fool you—this isn't a slow vehicle. The latest Countryman S comes equipped with a 2.0L TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder engine that delivers a punchy 241 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque.
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0-60 MPH: Approx. 6.5 seconds
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Drivetrain: Standard ALL4 All-Wheel Drive
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Transmission: 7-Speed Dual Clutch Automatic
Why You'll Love It
The Countryman S is the "Goldilocks" of the lineup. It has more than enough power to merge onto the highway with confidence, yet it retains a suspension tune that is forgiving on bumpy roads. It's also the efficiency champion of the two, offering better fuel economy for those long road trips.
If you are looking for a luxury crossover that offers substantial cargo space (up to 56 cubic feet with seats down) without sacrificing that fun-to-drive character, the Countryman S is likely your perfect match.
The Champion: MINI JCW Countryman ALL4
The Track-Inspired Beast
For those who believe there is no such thing as "too much horsepower," there is the John Cooper Works (JCW) Countryman. This is not just a trim level—it's a performance overhaul engineered for enthusiasts who want their SUV to drive like a sports car.
Performance & Specs
The JCW badge means business. Under the hood, you'll find a tuned version of the 2.0L engine that cranks the output up to 312 horsepower. It's not just about straight line speed; the JCW features an upgraded suspension, larger brakes with signature red calipers, and a sport-tuned exhaust that growls when you step on it.
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0-60 MPH: 5.2 seconds
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Drivetrain: Performance-Tuned ALL4 All-Wheel Drive
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Top Speed: 155 MPH
Why You'll Love It
The JCW provides a visceral driving experience. The steering is sharper, the suspension is stiffer for better cornering, and the acceleration snaps you back in your seat. Visually, it stands out with an aggressive front grille, quad exhaust tips, and exclusive aerodynamic kits.
This is the car for the driver who drops the kids off at school and then takes the long, winding way to work to feel the G-force in the corners.
Head-to-Head: Interior & Technology
With either the S or the JCW, you are getting MINI's cutting-edge interior design. Both models feature the stunning world's first circular OLED display—an 8.4-inch touchscreen that serves as the command center for navigation, audio, and vehicle settings.
MINI Countryman S Exterior Design
JCW Countryman Exterior Design
However, the vibes inside are different:
- The Countryman S leans towards "Modern Luxury." You'll find sustainable, high-quality textile materials, warm ambient lighting options, and a cabin designed for relaxation and comfort.
- The JCW Countryman leans towards "Motorsport." Expect JCW sport seats with enhanced bolstering to hold you in place, red stitching accents, and a steering wheel wrapped in perforated vescin for maximum grip. The JCW also features a "Go-Kart Mode" that not only limits the throttle but pipes enhanced engine sounds into the cabin.
The Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the Countryman S ALL4 if:
- You want a premium daily driver that balances comfort with agility.
- Ride quality and fuel efficiency are higher priorities than raw speed.
- You want the rugged look of the Countryman but don't need the track-ready stiff suspension.
- Value: You want the best "bang for your buck" in the luxury compact SUV segment.
Choose the JCW Countryman ALL4 if:
- You are a driving enthusiast who refuses to compromise on performance, even in an SUV.
- You love the aggressive, sporty aesthetic (red calipers, quad exhaust, aggressive intake).
- You want the passing power to overtake traffic on I-35 effortlessly.
- Exclusivity: You want the top-tier model that represents the pinnacle of MINI engineering.
Frequently Asked Questions: Countryman S vs. JCW
What is the main difference between the Countryman S and the JCW?
The primary difference is performance. The Countryman S is tuned for a balance of comfort and efficiency with 241 hp, while the John Cooper Works (JCW) is a high-performance model with 312 hp, a sport-tuned suspension, and aggressive styling.
Do both models come with All-Wheel Drive?
Yes. Both the Countryman S and the JCW come standard with MINI's ALL4 intelligent All-Wheel Drive system, making them both excellent choices for Oklahoma weather and varying road conditions.
Is the JCW Countryman suitable for daily driving?
Absolutely. While the JCW has a stiffer, sportier suspension than the S model, it still retains the premium interior and technology that make it a comfortable daily driver. However, drivers who prioritize a softer, smoother ride may prefer the Countryman S.
Which MINI Countryman gets better gas mileage?
Generally, the Countryman S ALL4 offers better fuel economy than the high-performance JCW model. If maximum MPG is a priority for your commute along the Broadway Extension, the S is likely the better choice.
Do both models use the same type of gas?
MINI recommends premium unleaded gasoline for both the Countryman S and the JCW to ensure optimal engine performance and longevity.
Experience the Difference at Jackie Cooper MINI
MINI Countryman S
JCW Countryman
Reading about horsepower is one thing; feeling it is another. The best way to decide between the refined athleticism of the Countryman S and the raw power of the JCW is to drive them back-to-back.
At Jackie Cooper MINI, we are proud to be Edmond's home for MINI. Whether you are coming from Oklahoma City, Yukon, or right here in town, our team is ready to help you find the perfect fit.
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Jackie Cooper MINI 14145 Broadway Ext, Edmond, OK 73013 Who Loves Ya, Oklahoma?