In November 2018, Mini confirmed it would launch a new John Cooper Works GP model at some point in 2020. And now the BMW-backed firm has announced the upcoming JCW GP will boast “more than 220 kW”.
In a release accompanied by three images, Mini confirmed the upcoming GP variant would be powered by a “four-cylinder engine with an output of more than 220 kW and featuring Mini TwinPower Turbo Technology”.
That, the firm added, would make it “by far the fastest and most powerful Mini ever to be approved for use on the road”. Of course, there’s every chance the automaker will use the BMW X2 M35i’s fiery 2,0-litre four-pot – which in the flagship X2 makes 225 kW and 450 N.m – in the new GP.
Interestingly, Mini also confirmed that production of its new John Cooper Works GP would be limited to 3 000 units (some 2 000 examples of its predecessor were built).
The new model would furthermore employ bespoke suspension “precisely adapted to the exceptionally high output of the new engine” as well as boast a handful of model-specific aerodynamic elements and reduced weight.
“The fastest Mini in our brand history – which now goes back 60 years – is an expression of pure racing passion,” said Thomas Giuliani, vice president for product and launch management.
“We are well aware of the enormous fascination exercised by the Mini John Cooper Works GP, not just from the euphoric reactions to the concept vehicle [shown at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2017] but also from past experience: after all, every one of its predecessors was completely sold out even before the official market launch.”
