#83 Mini John Cooper Works – The thrilling pocket rocket

With its irresistible temperament and enthralling performance figures, the Mini John Cooper Works outperforms the sportiest variants of the range just as strikingly the predecessor model. The new Mini John Cooper Works features fascinating performance qualities including not just high-speed acceleration but also exceptional agility, steering precision and precisely controllable handling as well as excellent deceleration figures. This set of unmistakable characteristics reflects longstanding experience in motor racing and bears witness to the tradition-steeped link between Mini and John Cooper Works. Ever since legendary designer John Cooper discovered the sporting talent of the classic Mini presented in 1959, his name has stood for maximum driving fun and spectacular success on the race track with the small British car.

Mini John Cooper Works 

Looks

The front section feature strikingly large air inlets which indicate the high cooling requirements of the engine, its ancillary units and the brakes and thereby instantly revealing the car's outstanding performance qualities. The hexagonal radiator grille at the centre of the front section has a characteristic honeycomb pattern and a cross member at the bottom edge finished in red. The John Cooper Works logo also appears here, as well as on the luggage compartment lid at the rear of the car. The likewise standard LED headlamps are surrounded by a daytime driving light ring also in LED technology, the lower section of which is white and acts as the direction indicator.

Sporty front

The distinctive shape of the rear spoiler fitted on the Mini John Cooper Works, helps to generate downforce at high speeds. The rear bumper, with flaps and a diffuser element in the lower area, likewise helps optimise aerodynamic balance. Other exclusive features of the exterior include the side turn indicator surrounds, which bear a red highlighting line and a John Cooper Works logo applied to a black background, and also the tailpipes of the sports exhaust system integrated centrally in the rear bumper and identifiable by their particularly large cross-section. The black wheel arch surrounds also exhibit model-specific contours.

Sits lower than the standard Mini

Performance

Under the bonnet of the new Mini John Cooper Works is a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder power unit with an output of 170 kW/231 hp and 320 Nm of torque. This makes the Mini John Cooper Works the fastest car the brand has ever made. The new MINI John Cooper Works completes the standard sprint from zero to 100 km/h in 6.3 seconds it takes just 5.6 seconds to accelerate from 80 to 120 km/h and its maximum speed is 246 km/h. Power transmission to the front wheels is sent by a 6-speed manual transmission which has been adapted in detail to the engine's performance characteristics.

Six speed manual

The optional 6-speed Steptronic sports transmission offers faster shifting times and quicker acceleration. With the automatic transmission fitted 0 to 100 km/h takes 6.1 seconds. In manual mode, it is possible to change gear using shift paddles at the steering wheel. In combination with the automatic transmission, the new Mini John Cooper Works also features the automatic engine start/stop function, preventing unnecessary fuel consumption caused by idling at junctions or in congested traffic. The new Mini John Cooper Works is fitted as standard with a sports suspension that comprises of a single-joint spring strut axle at the front and a multilink rear axle. The standard fitted Brembo brakes offer great deceleration performance. The brake callipers are painted red and are visible behind the standard 17-inch light alloy wheels.

Multifunction sports steering

Interior

Due to the increased dimensions as compared to the predecessor model, the new Mini John Cooper Works offers space on the four seats. The luggage compartment now has a capacity of 211 litres. The driver and front occupant seat on newly developed John Cooper Works’ sports seats with integrated headrests and model-specific upholstery. The exclusive standard fittings include the newly designed John Cooper Works leather steering wheel with multifunction buttons and the John Cooper Works entry sills, the John Cooper Works gear or selector lever, stainless steel pedals including driver footrest and anthracite roof liner.

Sports seats

Interior trim in Piano Black and red design accentuations not just on the seat surfaces but also on the steering wheel rim, the gear or selector lever, the central instrument surround and the car key. An 8.8-inch TFT screen displays operating feedback for vehicle functions, air conditioning, infotainment and communication. The racing feel in the cockpit of the Mini John Cooper Works can be further enhanced with optional sports instruments. The three displays designed in classic circular form provide information that is especially relevant when an ambitiously sporty style of driving is adopted. The sports instruments consist of displays for the oil and charge-air pressure as well as a chronometer with stopwatch function.

large rear spoiler and functional diffuser

Verdict

The Mini John Cooper Works continues to be one of the best sporty hatchbacks money can buy. The sophisticated little car guarantees plenty of fun on the road and continues with the Mini’s sporty heritage.