In 2021 MINI made a subtle but important change to the way its suspension is design on all Cooper models. Stung with long-standing critique of ride quality, MINI decided to ditch its complex electronically controlled damping on Cooper models and use a simpler system that they believed would be more effective. While it may sound like a step back, MINI engineers were on to something.
Known as Intelligent Adaptive Suspension, it was significant mechanical update. This system, standard on Sport-spec models, featured new pressure valves in the dampers that can reduce damping forces by up to 50%, aiming to enhance the balance between sportiness and ride comfort .
The new suspension setup addressed previous criticisms of the Cooper S’s ride quality offering improved compliance and absorbency, making it more comfortable for long-distance driving without sacrificing the car’s characteristic agility .
In our reviews of Cooper models post 2021, we’ve found that the revised dampers noticeably improved ride quality, making the car more comfortable while retaining its engaging driving dynamics.
At first glance, frequency-selective mechanical dampers might seem like a step backward compared to the high-tech wizardry of electronically controlled adaptive dampers. After all, why ditch the tech? But here’s the surprise: for the average spirited MINI driver, frequency-selective dampers can deliver a nearly identical experience—without the complexity, cost, or potential maintenance headaches of their electronic cousins.
The old electronically adjustable dampers offered selectable stiffness—like 10% firmer in Sport mode depending on the model. But MINI’s engineers realized the mechanical dampers could deliver 95% of that same experience, more seamlessly and reliably. But that wasn’t the only reasons.
In talking to MINI representatives, it really came down to three things:
These dampers are mechanical, meaning they don’t use sensors or computer-controlled valves. Instead, they use clever internal valving that responds to the frequency of the suspension movement—not just the size of a bump.
So instead of changing damper settings with software, these dampers react dynamically and instantly to what’s happening on the road. No buttons, no code—just physics.
Why hasn’t MINI made this change to the Countryman? With its larger footprint and longer wheelbase, the Countryman naturally delivers a smoother, more composed ride compared to the smaller Cooper models. That extra size allows the electronically controlled damping system to work more effectively, providing the comfort and control MINI intended without the compromises seen in the lighter, smaller cars.
In our experience driving countless Coopers since the change, the revised dampers have given these models some much-needed duality — still playful when you want it, but far easier to live with when you don’t.
Thanks for this very detailed write up Gabe. From my experience looking at Gen 4 Minis, this is a very rare option to find on stock Cooper and Cooper S models, but it comes standard on the new JCW and the Cooper S 4 door with JCW trim. I drove the latter, with 17” rims, and found the ride quality surprisingly supple. I’ve heard the “real” JCW with 18” rims is still a pretty hard right. Would this align with your observations of how Mini tuned each car? How much of a difference stems from 17” vs. 18” wheels and their rubber-band sidewalls?
Sorry one correction: hard ride, not hard right.
The number three reason; cost, was the primary reason they did this, like many of the other changes they’ve implemented.
Mini wouldn’t have widened the front and rear tracks if it were only for financial reasons
I didn’t say the only reason, but the primary reason. Look at all of the other revisions to the interior, brakes, etc; cost reduction was a major motivation.