Mini has pulled the wraps off its most powerful car to date, the new John Cooper Works, also referred to as the JCW.
Updates to the engine, suspension, aerodynamics as well as the exterior and interior differentiate the JCW from the lesser Cooper S model.
The most important aspect is the 2,0-litre, 4-cylinder engine which now develops 170 kW/320 N.m. The result is a claimed 0-100 km/h acceleration figure of 6,1 seconds for the optional 6-speed steptronic transmission, or 6,3 seconds for the six-speed manual gearbox. That should be enough to keep those pesky Volkswagen Golf GTIs at bay from the traffic lights.
The JCW sits on new 17-inch light alloy wheels with a new Brembo sports brake system. As before, the JCW offers an electronic differential lock control (EDLC) on the front axle, helping to send the torque successfully through the front wheels to the road. Fortunately the car is also fitted with an electromechanical steering system.
At the front the Mini has gained even more intakes! The front bumper is unique to the JCW, and so is the side skirts and rear apron. In true Mini tradition there is a small roof spoiler as well.
Other upgrades include the LED headlamps with white direction indicators, while passers by will surely appreciate the new sports exhaust system.
The interior features several unique touches for this car. The figure-hugging sports seats will keep you in place during enthusiastic cornering, while the manual gearlever will surely entice you to work the six-speed gearbox. Even the instrument display has been updated, while your feet can dance around on the stainless steel pedals.
According to Mini, the JCW tips the scales at the same weight as its predecessor, even though it has grown in size.
The Mini JCW will arrive during the second quarter of 2015. Full pricing and more details will be released closer to the time.
Click here for our 20 000 km report on the Mini Coupé JCW which formed part of our long-term test fleet.
