I watched your review with interest… as I always enjoy the content on this channel. As a super-happy F66 owner (after I previously owned two F56 models - in which I drove a total of 120,000+ miles), I agree totally with your positive comments about the improvements BMW/MINI has made with the current generation of cars. I love the styling - interior & exterior - and I remain impressed by how much better the F66 is to drive. The difference is night & day to me, and the tech is superb. My first F56 had a manual gearbox (as the auto option wasn't good). However, when the DCT arrived with my second F56, I was delighted. The F66 engine/DCT combination is even better - but I understand why people would want a manual gearbox in the JCW… even though it really isn't a track weapon. Here in Europe, at least, the DCT is essential for BMW/MINI to meet the ever-stricter emissions targets…. although apparently, since yesterday, the US Government is no longer concerned about such unimportant issues as climate change! 🙄 The reduction in the brake specification for the JCW surprised me… but I wonder if there will soon be an extra-cost 'racing brakes' option - as we all know that BMW/MINI loves to upsell. 😉 My advice to anyone who is interested in owning a MINI is simple - go and drive one… All of the charm and sparkle is still there, but the current cars are now built & equipped like small BMW cars (for much less money!). Keep up the good work, Gabriel. Thanks.
I have a 2024 JCW hatchback. Ionic trim, the good brakes and 6 speed manual. I don't want to give up is my Rebel Green paint. I do really like the new exterior styling and lukewarm interior on the center touch control screen. I can't see myself getting this in a year or so when I get a new car. Too bad that MINI has seemingly lost their way.
Such a niche automobile. I had a 16 cooper S 6 speed. It was fun to drive but those damn run flat tires were horrible. Had to replace one on two separate road trips at 220 a piece and it took hours of waiting to be picked up and tires replaced. Had it for 2 years and then traded it on a 18 VW GTI. Such a better car in all aspects.
This seems very much like a "smart phone" "upgrade" - if you have the previous year's model you may just skip this one. Really, the only reason I'd "upgrade" over my 2024 JCW 2-door Hardtop would be to get OS9 for Android Auto and the added torque. I don't believe that MINI Service will be giving us a "break" on the cost of a brake service - I just had my 2018 JCW's fronts done and I'd be a bit miffed if I were presented a bill for new pads and rotors at the same price as my F56's but I think the price would be the same...
I just can't imagine long-term dust and dirt getting into the dash. Not a fan of the new jcw badge. Not a fan of the new jcw. I'm a passionate mini owner but this is disappointing.
Great first look! Two questions come to mind: What does that boost button near the paddles do? And is there anyway to open the flap on the second exhaust? The previous JCW exhaust had a second flap that could be opened via a remote Bluetooth trigger that would increase the bangs and pops. Any chance it’s the same on this?
If other manufacturers' DCTs are any indication - over time they "learn" your driving manners - shift urgency may adapt a bit over time or as suggested with a software update / mod. Honestly, I'm okay with a DCT (not over a manual of course) compared to most traditional automatics - you do have to get used to driving one (a DCT)....
as a previous F56 caretaker, I don’t understand, is the brand’s intention to reduce sales by design? I don’t know why these manufacturers aren’t involving journalists/reviewers in the design process … so ridiculous it’s laughable, it’s silly, it’s sad actually … sigh … in a market that seems competitive, I’m expecting an elevated or refined F56, unfortunately this new MINI appears to be a downgrade, it’s absolutely sad to see … I loved the brand, and was considering a new one, not anymore
I’ve been anticipating this video for a while, since I plan to order an F66 JCW this year. Just into the video and I’m wondering, they shrink the front brakes and ditched the Brembo calipers, and they also eliminated the brake cooling ducts from the front bumper???
No no, I believe the brake cooling ducts are still there. It’s just actively opened and closed. The cold January this year on the east coast means the shutters are closed for most of the times. The engine will heat up sooner and the cabin gets warm sooner
@@YidingSun The active shutters are for the engine cooling. Assuming they work like other cars with active grille shutters, they’ll be closed most of the time for aerodynamic (i.e., fuel efficiency) purposes. The brake cooling ducts have always been outboard of the engine cooling grilles. It’s possible there’s a different design altogether on the F66 (the Cooper S doesn’t appear to have the brake ducts, either).
@@davidc-l9174The Cooper S never had brake cooling ducts. I just check from the wheel arch and can confirm the brake cooling ducts are present. I believe the logic is if you’re using the brakes to a manner that it needs additional cooling, your engine definitely also needs additional cooling. Which makes sense
Same as in my new countryman, and I find them too low and too small as well as cheap feeling. I use my paddles a lot but these definitely need an upgrade
Bought my F56 as it was last of the manuals. If I went for the 66 I would just get the EV with its linear high torque instant response as it avoids that awful DCT which is poor in the F56 as well given a manual isnt an option. Interior looks a step backwards to me but outside I like it. Just not ready to go for it as a drivers car and I have an EV alongside my F56.
This car is a massive letdown. MINI put way too much into the development of EV when most major manufacturers are flocking away and cutting investments to their programs. I have a very strong feeling that the f66 will be getting a major refresh sooner rather than later. This is not the one to buy.
Personally hate it. Lost the hood scoop, extremely bland EV type interior and having a anime dog is obnoxious for a “hot hatch” I’ve owned several minis and this is just sad. You also scratched the gloss black over the wheels when you tapped it.
I could just about stomach the front on the F56 and actually ended up quite liking it. This thing is hideous. BMW can throw all the tech they like at the car, but if it looks like a dog's breakfast I will never buy one. Happy R59 owner here. Now that is THE best looking new Mini ever made.
As a enthusiast of MINI, having with my current F56 4 MINIs in total, for me this is the worst thing MINI have done during all of this years, looks like a chinese 3 cil cooper trying to be a JCW, looks cheap everywhere you look, exterior and interior, downgrades everywhere, ugly design, 1 single piston break caliper its a total disgrace, overall what an ugly car, how BMW could do this to an icon like MINI, ill keep my F56 of course, not buying this ugly "new" thing.
no one cares about having more useless tech in a jcw if it means more weight less fun less feeling and going from 6 piston calibers to Mono-piston small brakes, I would still take an old R53 jaw over it, and I did, it's not worth the money they ask for,
and don't even get me started on the Cooper S, went to the dealership last week, you can't even tell a Cooper s is a Cooper s even next to a ONE, that's ridiculous, it's just a more powerful standard Cooper, nothing special nowhere except that it's written Cooper s on the back , and it's a shame because in person they are not bad, and the central screen is one of the less shitty huge screen without any design and integration effort that we got in the last few years (they can thanks the classic minis for that central speedo because that's the only thing making the central screen acceptable even though it's too high)
Don’t forget sport plus. When you select go kart, click on the settings wheel and then you can change it from sport to sport plus.
Woah… I didn’t realise how small the brakes were on the new JCW… that’s crazy
It’s a grower, the extra torque and the new good looks will win out I think.
I watched your review with interest… as I always enjoy the content on this channel.
As a super-happy F66 owner (after I previously owned two F56 models - in which I drove a total of 120,000+ miles), I agree totally with your positive comments about the improvements BMW/MINI has made with the current generation of cars.
I love the styling - interior & exterior - and I remain impressed by how much better the F66 is to drive. The difference is night & day to me, and the tech is superb.
My first F56 had a manual gearbox (as the auto option wasn't good). However, when the DCT arrived with my second F56, I was delighted.
The F66 engine/DCT combination is even better - but I understand why people would want a manual gearbox in the JCW… even though it really isn't a track weapon.
Here in Europe, at least, the DCT is essential for BMW/MINI to meet the ever-stricter emissions targets…. although apparently, since yesterday, the US Government is no longer concerned about such unimportant issues as climate change! 🙄
The reduction in the brake specification for the JCW surprised me… but I wonder if there will soon be an extra-cost 'racing brakes' option - as we all know that BMW/MINI loves to upsell. 😉
My advice to anyone who is interested in owning a MINI is simple - go and drive one…
All of the charm and sparkle is still there, but the current cars are now built & equipped like small BMW cars (for much less money!).
Keep up the good work, Gabriel. Thanks.
I have a 2024 JCW hatchback. Ionic trim, the good brakes and 6 speed manual. I don't want to give up is my Rebel Green paint. I do really like the new exterior styling and lukewarm interior on the center touch control screen. I can't see myself getting this in a year or so when I get a new car. Too bad that MINI has seemingly lost their way.
Such a niche automobile. I had a 16 cooper S 6 speed. It was fun to drive but those damn run flat tires were horrible. Had to replace one on two separate road trips at 220 a piece and it took hours of waiting to be picked up and tires replaced. Had it for 2 years and then traded it on a 18 VW GTI. Such a better car in all aspects.
This seems very much like a "smart phone" "upgrade" - if you have the previous year's model you may just skip this one. Really, the only reason I'd "upgrade" over my 2024 JCW 2-door Hardtop would be to get OS9 for Android Auto and the added torque. I don't believe that MINI Service will be giving us a "break" on the cost of a brake service - I just had my 2018 JCW's fronts done and I'd be a bit miffed if I were presented a bill for new pads and rotors at the same price as my F56's but I think the price would be the same...
Every F56 JCW owner will never replace it with this....
I just can't imagine long-term dust and dirt getting into the dash. Not a fan of the new jcw badge. Not a fan of the new jcw. I'm a passionate mini owner but this is disappointing.
Great first look! Two questions come to mind:
What does that boost button near the paddles do?
And is there anyway to open the flap on the second exhaust? The previous JCW exhaust had a second flap that could be opened via a remote Bluetooth trigger that would increase the bangs and pops. Any chance it’s the same on this?
I prezzi salgono ma i contenuti scendono.
If other manufacturers' DCTs are any indication - over time they "learn" your driving manners - shift urgency may adapt a bit over time or as suggested with a software update / mod. Honestly, I'm okay with a DCT (not over a manual of course) compared to most traditional automatics - you do have to get used to driving one (a DCT)....
F56 Cooper S JCW trim with dct and f56 JCW for the win
what brand of sunglass you wear gabe
They’re call Original Vintage and they’re the model (from Italy).
Can you change the dampers?
Top sport version with carpet instead of alcantara... It's not premium but budget interior. Great glasses.
as a previous F56 caretaker, I don’t understand, is the brand’s intention to reduce sales by design? I don’t know why these manufacturers aren’t involving journalists/reviewers in the design process … so ridiculous it’s laughable, it’s silly, it’s sad actually … sigh … in a market that seems competitive, I’m expecting an elevated or refined F56, unfortunately this new MINI appears to be a downgrade, it’s absolutely sad to see … I loved the brand, and was considering a new one, not anymore
It has two exhaust exits. Bizarrely they hid the second one underneath. You have to get right down underneath to find it!
Hello, I have a question
Is the USB C port also used for listening to media (USB C key) or only for charging the phone?
Both but you’ll be better served using CarPlay or Android Auto
@@MotoringFile Thank you so much
I’ve been anticipating this video for a while, since I plan to order an F66 JCW this year. Just into the video and I’m wondering, they shrink the front brakes and ditched the Brembo calipers, and they also eliminated the brake cooling ducts from the front bumper???
No no, I believe the brake cooling ducts are still there. It’s just actively opened and closed. The cold January this year on the east coast means the shutters are closed for most of the times. The engine will heat up sooner and the cabin gets warm sooner
@@YidingSun The active shutters are for the engine cooling. Assuming they work like other cars with active grille shutters, they’ll be closed most of the time for aerodynamic (i.e., fuel efficiency) purposes. The brake cooling ducts have always been outboard of the engine cooling grilles. It’s possible there’s a different design altogether on the F66 (the Cooper S doesn’t appear to have the brake ducts, either).
@@davidc-l9174The Cooper S never had brake cooling ducts. I just check from the wheel arch and can confirm the brake cooling ducts are present. I believe the logic is if you’re using the brakes to a manner that it needs additional cooling, your engine definitely also needs additional cooling. Which makes sense
The interior is the biggest downgrade
How is the “steering feel” compared to the F56 JCW?
Slightly better. It’s a quicker rack and the suspension tuning and allowed a little more feel - even if it’s still minimal.
Seats are also a Downgrade.
Less sporty and no more leg extension.
Damned with faint praise…
I hate the new design no longer cool and sporty looks like normal ev car
I´ll keep my R53
Looks like lees for more £/$? Still not keen on the look or interior.
No thoughts on paddle shifters?
They feel cheap as they were before. We’ll go into more details as we get more seat time. In fact, one of us may be picking one up permanently soon.
Same as in my new countryman, and I find them too low and too small as well as cheap feeling. I use my paddles a lot but these definitely need an upgrade
@@MotoringFile Thanks. Please let us know how the paddles perform. Are they any consolation for the lack of manual? Great channel!
Bought my F56 as it was last of the manuals. If I went for the 66 I would just get the EV with its linear high torque instant response as it avoids that awful DCT which is poor in the F56 as well given a manual isnt an option. Interior looks a step backwards to me but outside I like it. Just not ready to go for it as a drivers car and I have an EV alongside my F56.
This car is a massive letdown. MINI put way too much into the development of EV when most major manufacturers are flocking away and cutting investments to their programs. I have a very strong feeling that the f66 will be getting a major refresh sooner rather than later. This is not the one to buy.
It should be benched and marked against the Toyota Corolla GR Awd models. MINI should just add it to the model.
A massive downgrade compared to the F56 gen. A cutting cost galore.
Personally hate it. Lost the hood scoop, extremely bland EV type interior and having a anime dog is obnoxious for a “hot hatch” I’ve owned several minis and this is just sad. You also scratched the gloss black over the wheels when you tapped it.
I could just about stomach the front on the F56 and actually ended up quite liking it. This thing is hideous. BMW can throw all the tech they like at the car, but if it looks like a dog's breakfast I will never buy one. Happy R59 owner here. Now that is THE best looking new Mini ever made.
What do you feed your dog for breakfast? Lol😂
As a enthusiast of MINI, having with my current F56 4 MINIs in total, for me this is the worst thing MINI have done during all of this years, looks like a chinese 3 cil cooper trying to be a JCW, looks cheap everywhere you look, exterior and interior, downgrades everywhere, ugly design, 1 single piston break caliper its a total disgrace, overall what an ugly car, how BMW could do this to an icon like MINI, ill keep my F56 of course, not buying this ugly "new" thing.
Why such a stupid single exhaust… come on… so silly.
no one cares about having more useless tech in a jcw if it means more weight less fun less feeling and going from 6 piston calibers to Mono-piston small brakes, I would still take an old R53 jaw over it, and I did, it's not worth the money they ask for,
and don't even get me started on the Cooper S, went to the dealership last week, you can't even tell a Cooper s is a Cooper s even next to a ONE, that's ridiculous, it's just a more powerful standard Cooper, nothing special nowhere except that it's written Cooper s on the back , and it's a shame because in person they are not bad, and the central screen is one of the less shitty huge screen without any design and integration effort that we got in the last few years (they can thanks the classic minis for that central speedo because that's the only thing making the central screen acceptable even though it's too high)