The legendary MINI line-up in Australia has just received a performance boost with the arrival of the final models to complete the John Cooper Works range. To the delight of MINI fans right across the nation, every MINI model – including MINI, Clubman, Coupe, Cabriolet, Roadster, Paceman, Countryman and GP – now includes a John Cooper Works, or JCW, variant.
Kai Bruesewitz, general manager of the MINI brand in Australia, said he expected the latest MINI JCW models to be very popular.
“Australian motorists just love a great performance car, and MINI Australia has the highest sales of MINI JCW vehicles, per capita, in the world,” Bruesewitz said.
“Now, with a JCW variant available on every MINI model, our customers will be spoiled for choice.”
John Cooper grew to legendary status amongst the world’s motor racing fraternity during the 1950s and 1960s, enjoying many successes in the design and racing of Formula One and Indianapolis 500 vehicles. John Cooper first joined forces with the MINI brand to design the first high performance MINI Cooper for the 1960 Monte Carlo Rally.
The JCW brand name was born out of this relationship and focuses on a feeling of driving excitement, individuality and premium quality. The passion for high performance inspired by years of racing tradition is at the heart of all JCW models and the current range is no exception.
The impressive power and thrust of these muscular cars is delivered by a new generation 1.6 litre four-cylinder engine featuring twin-scroll turbo technology, direct fuel injection, variable valve control and a host of technical features derived from motor racing. Highlights include reinforced cylinder head and pistons, sodium filled exhaust valves and lightweight crankshaft which help the excellent revving capability
With a maximum output of 155 kW and 260 Nm of torque (280 Nm with overboost), which increases to 160 kW and 280 Nm (300 Nm with overboost) in the ALL4 all-wheel-drive MINI JCW Countryman and MINI JCW Paceman, this engine doesn’t hide its motor racing DNA.
The thrilling note of the engine is trumpeted through the standard JCW sports exhaust system, which produces a deliberately tuned raw note under acceleration, along with a symphony of burbles and crackles on over-run.
In two-wheel drive variants, the drive is transferred to the front wheels via a standard six-speed manual transmission. In the case of the MINI JCW Paceman and MINI JCW Countryman, power is seamlessly channelled via the electromagnetic centre differential of the standard ALL4 all-wheel-drive system between the front and rear axles to all four wheels.
An optional six-speed automatic transmission is available for all MINI JCW variants except the MINI JCW GP limited edition model.
MINI JCW sports suspension, which comes as either standard or a no-cost-option depending on the model, has dynamically tuned dampers and anti-roll bars. Precise stopping is guaranteed with a standard high-performance sports-brake system.
For sky-high levels of driving fun, a Sports button in the centre console allows the driver to tweak the engine’s responses and soundtrack, as well as the power assistance provided by the steering. In models fitted with automatic transmissions, pressing the Sport button also quickens shift times.
All MINI JCW models are instantly recognisable, with unmistakable exterior details and selected interiors underscoring each variant’s bold and muscular characteristics.
Depending on the model, up to ten exterior colours are available. A contrasting paint finish can be ordered for the roof and exterior mirror caps in Chilli Red, a colour exclusive to the John Cooper Works models. Sport stripes are also available in the same colour as a no-cost-option.
Each MINI JCW sports an Aero kit, which includes a front apron with integral air ducts for brake cooling, side sills and rear bumper as well as the two-wheel drive variants receive stylish 17 inch Cross Spoke Challenge alloy wheels. The four-wheel drive MINI JCW Paceman and Countryman also receive the Aero kit, and are finished with 18 inch twin-spoke burnished alloy wheels.
All MINI JCW vehicles bear the John Cooper Works logo on the radiator grille, tailgate, door sill strips and near the side indicators, highlighting the sporting character of the mighty midget even further.
The interior of each MINI JCW variant exudes racing flair, with sport seats, a JCW sports leather steering wheel, anthracite roof lining, trim elements in Piano Black, and dark-coloured dials for the speedometer and rev counter. Handbrake and gearshift gaiters feature red stitching and standard floor mats come with red contrasting seams.
And just because all variants are fully kitted with performance features, it doesn’t mean the occupants need miss out on creature comforts and convenience. Standard equipment for the MINI JCW range includes a high-end harman/kardon 10 speaker audio system, bluetooth hands-free kit with USB audio interface, and Bi-Xenon headlights with auto headlight control and rain sensor.
The crowning jewel of the MINI JCW collection is the limited edition MINI JCW GP model. The MINI JCW GP is the fastest production MINI ever built, and boasts a time of 8.23 minutes for a lap of the iconic Nurburgring.
With only 2,000 manufactured worldwide, and just 55 of these allocated to the Australian market, these powerful performers enjoy a very rare status that make them instant collectors items.
The light-weight MINI JCW GP features a 160kW race-tuned engine and traction control system with a specific “GP” mode, as well as a bespoke racing suspension and braking system.
A unique aerodynamics package gives the MINI JCW GP edition an unmistakable road presence, and consists of under-body panelling to reduce drag and a carbon rear wing to improve down-force over the rear axle.
The driver and co-driver are treated to heated leather Recaro seats with red stitching and a special knee roll for secure bracing during spirited driving.
The singularity of purpose of the MINI JCW GP is reflected in the fact that there is just one specification of this limited edition model which cannot be modified in any way. The variant’s individuality is guaranteed by the availability of an exclusive additional paint choice – Thunder Grey metallic.
All MINI JCW variants are available in MINI dealerships around Australia now.
Australian MRLP*
| MINI JCW | $50,400 |
| MINI JCW Clubman | $51,800 |
| MINI JCW Coupe | $52,600 |
| MINI JCW Roadster | $55,100 |
| MINI JCW Cabrio | $58,500 |
| MINI JCW Countryman ALL4 | $56,800 |
| MINI JCW Paceman ALL4 | $58,600 |
| MINI JCW GPII | $56,900 |
*Manufacturer’s Recommended List Price is shown and includes GST and Luxury Car Tax (LCT – if applicable) but excludes dealer charges, stamp duty, statutory charges and on-road charges which are additional and vary between dealers and States/Territories. Customers are advised to contact their nearest BMW dealer for all pricing inquiries
