The Mini John Cooper Works is based on the Mini Cooper S three-door hatchback and is being imported to India via the CBU route with prices beginning at Rs 43.50 lakh (ex-showroom).
Engine and Performance
The Mini John Cooper Works (JCW) is powered by a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, TwinPower Turbo petrol engine that dishes out an impressive 231 PS and a maximum torque of 320 Nm. That’s 39 PS and 40 Nm more than the standard Mini Cooper S. This sporty hatchback comes fitted with an eight-speed Sports Steptronic automatic transmission (the Cooper S gets a seven-speed auto) with steering-mounted paddle-shifters that help the JCW achieve 0-100 km/h in just 6.1 seconds (claimed).
Driver Assist Features
To make the most of its go-kart like dynamics the Mini John Cooper Works also comes equipped with driving modes which help set-up the car’s ride comfort, sportiness or efficiency, according to the driver’s needs. Apart from the usual Mid mode, the JCW also gets a choice of Sport and Green modes, where ‘Sport’ sharpens the steering and acceleration making the hatchback a perfect tool for track days. While pushing the Mini JCW to the limit, it reassuring to know that the standard safety equipment includes driver and passenger airbags, Brake Assist, Dynamic Stability Control, Crash Sensor, Anti-lock Braking System and Cornering Brake Control.
While driving in the city the Driver Assistance Systems, which includes Park Distant Control and Rear-view Camera, come rather handy. The Mini JCW comes shod with run-flat tyres as standard, so don’t expect it to come with a spare wheel. Other standard features include Auto Start/Stop function, Brake Energy Recuperation, active cooling air flaps and electro-mechanical power steering.
Design
The Mini John Cooper Works models boast of racing-inspired visual enhancements and fine quality materials. So, on the JCW you’ll notice the hexagonal radiator grille with a characteristic honeycomb pattern and a cross member finished in red. The biggest giveaway is the bonnet stripes that add a distinctively race-inspired look. Adding to this are the LED headlamps surrounded by LED daytime running lights with integrated indicators. The John Cooper Works badge on the front, side scuttles and tailgate never fail to set the pulses racing. The Mini JCW announces its racing pedigree with its contrasting paint finish roof and wing mirrors which can be got either in white, black or exclusively for Mini John Cooper Works in Chilli Red.
Other giveaways for the JCW include the front apron with integrated air ducts, side sills and the sporty 17-inch JCW alloy wheels finished in Black. Not to forget, little details like the Chilli Red coloured brakes calipers, new shape front and rear bumpers and a rear spoiler which complete the sporty design of the Mini JCW.
Interior
Inspired by its racing heritage, the Mini JCW comes with John Cooper Works sport seats with integrated headrests, Carbon Black dinamica leather upholstery with bright red accents. The ultimate ‘go-kart’ feeling is enhanced with the John Cooper Works sports leather steering wheel which comes with paddle shifters and a speed-sensitive steering system. Even in the cabin, there are plenty of small details that make it a special place such as the John Cooper Works stainless steel pedals and the John Cooper Works badging on the door sills.
Features
As expected from a Rs 43.5 lakh car, the Mini John Cooper Works has a fairly long equipment list. This includes the Mini Excitement Pack featuring Mini logo projection, LED ambient lights and the optional panoramic sunroof. Also on offer is a head-up display, Harman Kardon 360-watt music system with 12 speakers delivering powerful sound.
The iconic 6.5-inch circular instrument console is surrounded by an LED ring which makes the cabin distinctly Mini. There are the usual features too like Bluetooth connectivity, Aux and USB ports as part of the standard kit. A larger 8.8-inch touchscreen with touchpad controller is optional, packing Mini Find Mate with 2 Bluetooth tags, Navigation System Professional, Mini Connected XL, telephony with wireless charging and second USB interface. Other infotainment options now include Apple CarPlay along with MINI Radio Visual Boost + Mini Navigation or with Mini Wired Package.
As mentioned, the Mini John Cooper Works is priced at Rs 43.50 lakh (ex-showroom) and you can book your car now though deliveries will begin from June.