My '19 JCW is my fourth MINI and I can see some differences between my new MINI and my old '15S. Both cars are autos. The '15 had a stock suspension with 17" wheels. My '19 JCW has the JCW stock sports suspension with 18" wheels. After experiencing an '08 with a sports suspension and 17" runflats, I was really hesitant to consider the '19. My '15 handled great and the ride was a welcome improvement in compliance. When I test drove the '19, I was surprised how the suspension ( even though stiffer ) was not bad.
Well, I just finished a trip from Lodi,CA to Santa Cruz and then to Carmel and the new car is a great touring car.
Also, my '15 would just run out of gas above 4000 rpm. My '19 loves to rev, up to 6000rpm. I think comparing apples to apples, the fuel economy is maybe about 1 mpg lower ( the price you pay for a few extra horses).
In a couple of months we're taking a trip to Tombstone, AZ. I can't wait.

 

If you mean Tombstone, AZ (not AR), give me a shoutout for a meetup!