The MINI brand may be transitioning to being fully electric, but that hasn’t stopped it from indulging in a bit of petrol-powered fun. This is the latest MINI John Cooper Works, based on the new F66 Cooper (and F67 Cooper Convertible) that is itself a heavy facelift of the F56 three-door hatch (and F57 cabrio).
Being that the donor cars not only use the same platform but also the same engines as before, there was bound to be limited scope for improving the hot JCW models, and so it was the case. Retaining the B48 2.0 litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the cars continue to produce 231 PS, although torque has been bumped up significantly from 320 to 380 Nm.
Despite this, the sprint from zero to 100 km/h takes an identical 6.1 seconds for the hatch and 6.4 seconds for the heavier convertible, although top speeds are now slightly higher at 250 km/h for the hatch and 245 km/h for the cabrio. Drive is sent to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, replacing the outgoing eight-speed automatic.
Maintaining the overly sporty nature of the JCW model is a specially-tuned suspension setup with adaptive dampers, along with larger brakes with JCW-branded red callipers. MINI is boasting about the fact that a prototype based on the new model won its class at this year’s Nürburgring 24 Hours.
Setting the JCW apart from the standard Cooper is a bodykit that adds some aggression back to the simplified MINI design language. The large hexagonal grille integrates large intakes and scoops, as well as a chequered flag mesh. Another pair of inlets on either side increases engine cooling and improves aerodynamics, while further back you’ll find deeper side skirts.
At the back, the JCW sports a split tailgate spoiler (only on the hatch, of course) and a sizeable rear diffuser. All these items are shared with the JCW trim for the standard Cooper, but the full-fat model gains a visible centre-exit exhaust poking out from the aforementioned diffuser. You also get JCW-specific horizontal daytime running lights, 17- and 18-inch alloy wheel designs and optional red door mirrors, roof and bonnet stripes.
Inside, the car is dressed in JCW’s trademark black and red colour scheme, most evident on the knitted dashboard cover with its distinctive chequered flag pattern. Also fitted are a thicker JCW steering wheel (with the usual fabric centre spoke) and JCW sports seats in black faux leather, the latter with red stitching and multicoloured knitted shoulder pads.
GALLERY: F67 MINI John Cooper Works Convertible
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