Automobiles Review

Tag: JCW

  • Are you ready for the MINI Challenge? Bilstein is!

    Bilstein MINI John Cooper Works F56 front viewIt is not a secret (but maybe a surprise) that the MINI models, especially from the John Cooper Works heritage are a motorsport talent. And this has been proven in history many times. In fact, with the landmark win at the legendary Rally Monte Carlo in 1964, the little car has shut the mouths of those unbelieving in its potential.

    Believe it or not, Bilstein (yes, the shock-absorbers guys) has been for a long time present in the “Monte history”. Even before the success of the MINI. The manufacturer had already equipped the Mercedes-Benz 220 SE with gas-pressure shock absorbers for the legendary rally in 1960. And back in the days these were still a rather recent high-tech invention! The result: a sensational triple win!

    SEE ALSO: Bilstein Builds Captain America’s Car Based on Fiat 500 Cinquone 

    So why not mixing the MINI with Bilstein? The MINI Challenge in Italy, which has started yesterday, will be the proof for the success of this endeavour. But even more surprising is that this collaboration is not new. The last year, the one-make series ran with technical components from the B16 PSS10 coilover suspension with road approval, fitted to the old MINI model R56!

    At the moment, the little guy on spot is the three-door MINI F56 John Cooper Works. Its suspension has also received another serious upgrade: Modular Damper System (MDS) designed by Bilstein exclusively for motorsports. The configuration is the following: 2-way adjustment for the front axle and a 1-way system for the rear axle, each with variable compression and rebound stages. The configuration is also in harmony with the new aerodynamics package which delivers great level of downforce.

    We can’t wait to hear about the results. We will keep you posted.

    Source: Bilstein 

  • Why this MINI John Cooper Works has nothing to do with a regular one?

    B&B MINI John Cooper Works rear viewThis MINI John Cooper Works with a regular one because of many reasons, but if we have to sum them up, it all ends at the work of the German tuning specialists at B&B. To make things a little bit clearer, they have developed a several stage modifications which results in fantastic addition of output for the MINI. And to be even more precise, the stock horses of the car jumped from 231 hp to 300 hp, while the Newton meters – from 320 Nm to 465 Nm.

    Even more: the top speed was changed from 246 km/h to 280 km/h, while the acceleration time (for the 0-100 km/h sprint) dropped from 6.3 sec to 5.4 sec. How did they make things possible? The answer: with a lot of hard and precise work as well as a precise craftsmanship.

    The Three Stages

    B&B MINI John Cooper Works engine

    Well, the aforementioned performance uprating was achieved with the help of Stage 3 conversion, which includes in-house made high-performance intercooler, modified intake ducts and manifold, high-flow exhaust downpipe, and a remap of the fuel, ignition and turbocharger boost curves. The high-flow downpipe actually unleashes approximately 15hp.

    SEE ALSO: What happens when 272HP aren’t enough? Meet the powerful B&B Audi A4 

    Given the fact that there is a Stage 3, to one surely occurs that there are two more. By the way, you have to apply them before reaching to the last one. The Stage 1 offers a slight increase in boost pressure and remap of the fuel and ignition curves. As a result, the output was increased to 272 hp and 400 Nm of torque. The Stage 2 pushes the horses to 286 hp and 430 Nm via the new intake ducts and manifold. The fuel and ignition curves are remapped, and turbo boost increased by 0.25 bar.

    Other Goodies

    B&B MINI John Cooper Works side view

    Improving the soundtrack of the newly uprated MIN is B7B’s sport exhaust with uprated catalytic converter. In addition, to make everything even more harmonious, the chassis received sport spring set, which lowers the ride height by approximately 30 mm and improves the cars handling and looks. There were also added KW V3 coilover suspension kit, 342 mm vented discs in front part of the new high performance brake system and B9 alloy wheels measuring 18-inch.

    2016 B&B MINI John Cooper Works
    2016 B&B MINI John Cooper Works
    2016 B&B MINI John Cooper Works
    2016 B&B MINI John Cooper Works
    2016 B&B MINI John Cooper Works
    2016 B&B MINI John Cooper Works
    2016 B&B MINI John Cooper Works

    Source: B&B Automobiltechnik

  • Manhart Racing Changes the Emblematic MINI John Cooper Works into Something Extraordinary!

    Manhart MINI F300 front view Do you know that this year Manhart Racing is celebrating its 30th anniversary? This only means that we are going to see even more exclusive project from the tuner that we are used to. The current one is based on the latest MINI John Cooper Works F56, which is fitted with MINI F300 personalization package.

    Power Upgrade

    The best thing about the F300 upgrade is that it concerns every part of the MINI, including its engine and performance. The tuners began with the remapping of the four-cylinder turbocharged motor. They actually changed the fuel, ignition, boosted the software and replaced the standard intercooler with one coming from Wagner.

    SEE ALSO: Meet Manhart’s MHX5 700 Project Based on the X5 M F85 

    Remus stainless steel sports exhaust was then added, and it includes larger downpipe and valve control, thus minimizing the backpressure and delivering throaty sound. After these modifications, the MINI F56 proudly ‘says’ that it can produce 300 hp (221 kW) and 470 Nm (347 lb-ft) of torque.

    Manhart MINI F300 Engine

    Exterior

    After the more important modifications were done (after all this is a sports variant of the MINI), some other custom elements waited to be added. For instance such are the KW Variant 3 coil-over suspension kit, which has this cool ride height adjustment feature and an adjustable bounce and rebound control. The in-house made carbon-fibre front suspension tower strut brace stiffens up the front-end to reduce torque steer.

    Everything mentioned by far is backed up by the gold-painted MANHART 19-inch multispoke alloys fitted with 235/35ZR19 tyres. At last, but not least, the entire exterior was re-painted with British Racing Green and then embellished with a specially designed gold decal set.

    Interior

    Manhart MINI F300 Interior

    Moving forward to the interior, the theme in the cabin counts on the luxury rather rather than on motorsport. See the seats as they are covered in the finest anthracite leather and Alcantara and contrasted with gold outline stitching. Their Alcantara inserts feature gold cross-stitching for a harmonious effect. The same approach has been used for the Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, while the velour floor mats have been embroidered with Manhart logos.

    Wonder what the next 30th anniversary project by Manhart would be? Which car would you like to see tuned?

    2016 Manhart MINI F300
    2016 Manhart MINI F300
    2016 Manhart MINI F300
    2016 Manhart MINI F300
    2016 Manhart MINI F300
    2016 Manhart MINI F300
    2016 Manhart MINI F300
    2016 Manhart MINI F300
    2016 Manhart MINI F300

    Source: Manhart Performance 

  • Essen Motor Show Welcomes the Stronger MINI JCW by AC Schnitzer [VIDEO]

    2015 AC Schnitzer MINI John Cooper Works Front viewAC Schnitzer has just sent us some information about the two MINIs it is currently presenting at the Essen Motor Show in Germany. Both are stylish and versatile and are a basically focused on performance. The models I am talking about are the MINI Cooper S and the John Cooper Works, both having very strong engines and sporting characteristics.

    Performance Upgrades and More…

    For both MINI variants, the tuning company is offering performance upgrades. Precisely, the change in power is from 192 hp (141 kW) to 235 hp (173 kW) and from 231 hp (170 kW) hp to 265 hp (195 kW).

    SEE ALSO: BMW X6 M by AC Schnitzer Goes Beyond the M Standard [VIDEO]

    The power of the cars just had to be communicated externally in terms of appearance and sound. Hence, AC Schnitzer added silencer systems that comprise of back box and two “Sport” or “Sport Black” tailpipes positioned centrally. This kit adds “Track Mode” flap system with remote control for optimized sound, too. The “Sport” and “Sport Black” tailpipe trims are also available.

    Sports Handling

    2015 AC Schnitzer MINI John Cooper Works Rear View

    The driving behavior was further enhanced via the new suspension spring kits tat lower the cars 20 – 30 mm at the front and around 25 – 35 mm at the rear. There is nowhere to go without the proper rims, so the tuning team added 19-inch AC1 alloys, developed specifically for the new MINIs. They have double-spoke design and are fitted with tyres sized 215/35 R19.

    In addition, AC Schnitzer’s front splitter now fits below the standard front skirt, thus delivering better downforce and a subtly sporting look. The rear skirt protective film, a Decor set and the rear “Technology & Design” logo complete the tuning.

    In the video below you can hear the sound of the new exhaust of AC Schnitzer’s MINI. Enjoy!

    httpv://youtu.be/SjSWDDOXtVk

    2015 AC Schnitzer MINI John Cooper Works
    2015 AC Schnitzer MINI John Cooper Works
    2015 AC Schnitzer MINI John Cooper Works
    2015 AC Schnitzer MINI John Cooper Works
    2015 AC Schnitzer MINI John Cooper Works2015 AC Schnitzer MINI John Cooper Works
    2015 AC Schnitzer MINI John Cooper Works
    2015 AC Schnitzer MINI John Cooper Works
    2015 AC Schnitzer MINI John Cooper Works
    2015 AC Schnitzer MINI John Cooper Works
    2015 AC Schnitzer MINI John Cooper Works
    2015 AC Schnitzer MINI John Cooper Works
    2015 AC Schnitzer MINI John Cooper Works
    2015 AC Schnitzer MINI John Cooper Works
    2015 AC Schnitzer MINI John Cooper Works
    2015 AC Schnitzer MINI John Cooper Works
    2015 AC Schnitzer MINI John Cooper Works
    2015 AC Schnitzer MINI John Cooper Works
    2015 AC Schnitzer MINI John Cooper Works
    2015 AC Schnitzer MINI John Cooper Works
    2015 AC Schnitzer MINI John Cooper Works

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: AC Schnitzer

  • Does OK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works Have a Winning Formula?

    OK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works R56 Side ViewOK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works R56 is not a car we see everyday. First of all, it is because tuners rarely prefer to do modifications on ‘minis’ like the JCW. And secondly because the custom work here is so good, that one might think that this car will go immediately on the race track. And of course win all competitions. And here it is why we find this vehicle that attractive, excluding one little detail.

    Exterior

    Before indulging in more power and torque, this MINI JCW has been significantly changed in terms of exterior and interior styling. A lot of carbon fiber has been involved and what is even better, anyone can see it.

    Precisely, the lightweight material has been used for the air scoop, outer rearview mirrors and hand grips. Even the MINI emblems received carbon treatment, just like the filler cap and antenna. Aero pack with brake ventilation has been also developed for the MINI. It complements the GP2 diffuser and underbody.

    SEE ALSO: Maxi-Tuner MINI John Cooper Works is 260HP and 390NM Strong!

    Continuing with the general picture, OK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works has been entirely wrapped in foil. In fact, the tuners have used contrast foils – one in gloss black and the other in matt black. The latter can be seen on the head and rear lamp bezels and the radiator grill frame.

    Wheels & Tires

    OK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works R56 Side and Rear View

    Literally no one in today’s tuning world will leave a project without changing its wheels. It seems that this part of the customization is the easiest one and almost everyone is counting on it. However, sometimes the effects are not that good and we all have seen some crazy combinations.

    Although the choice here isn’t ‘crazy’, this does count for the OK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works. In fact, its wheels look a little bit boring with its gloss black multi-spoke design. They can’t get noticed easily and look like the designer has made a fast decision.

    We find the choice of the type DTC Superlight Black Edition ATS rims not that impressive for the power enhancements done at a later time. Maybe, if they were bigger than 17-inch, the effect should have been more striking.

    Anyway, the new ATS wheels come coupled with Federal RS-R 595 tires in the dimensions of 215/40 R17. Spacers sized 5 millimeters have been mounted on the front axel, and there is also the addition of Bilstein B14 chassis and adjustable strut bearings.

    Power Uprating

    OK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works R56 Engine Tests

    Continuing with the changes under the hood, the MINI JCW by OK-Chiptuning features several important modifications. The first is the Wagner Competition charge air cooler connected with a Turbo Forge tube. Then come the Forge divert-air valve and the original MINI Deleter sound generator.

    At the other side of the car the experts have installed Akrapovic 100 cells downpipe with Evolution exhaust system. In fact, the latter looks really cool, because it features carbon fiber end pipes.

    After the hardware part was implemented, the specialists proceeded with the software optimization. Luckily, everything was measured via Dynojet system and you can see the graphic with the results above.

    The effect is spectacular: according to the EEC, the car generates 254 hp (187 kW) and 398 Nm (293 lb-ft), while according to the DIN these numbers were positioned at 262 hp (193 kW) and 407 Nm (300 lb-ft). A logical consequence is the improved top speed, which is now measured at 255 km/h (158 mph).

    Interior

    OK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works R56 Interior

    More and more companies rely on the standard production interior after they apply engine modifications. Nonetheless, OK-Chiptuning is on the other side of the coin. This MINI’s cabin has received some significant updates that need to be addressed.

    Probably the most substantial modification is the change of the standard seats with Dynamica black Recaro Pole Position ones. Given this change as well as the engine uprating, I am almost sure that this car will be used in some sort of rally-competition. Even more, the rear seats were entirely removed and substituted with black Wiechers club sports bar.

    Other important updates throughout the interior include gearshift lever and hand-brake dressed in carbon fiber, LEDs all over the cabin and black door grips in GT3 club sports design.

    All in all, I like this project very much except for the wheels. After all such aggressive and substantial tuning must be implemented on the rims and rubbers as well. In fact, I’m envisioning black alloys with less spokes and red accents that mimic the contrast stitching found on the inside. How about you?

    2015 OK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works R56
    2015 OK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works R56
    2015 OK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works R56
    2015 OK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works R56
    2015 OK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works R56
    2015 OK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works R56
    2015 OK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works R56
    2015 OK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works R56
    2015 OK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works R56
    2015 OK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works R56
    2015 OK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works R56
    2015 OK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works R56
    2015 OK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works R56
    2015 OK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works R56
    2015 OK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works R56
    2015 OK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works R56
    2015 OK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works R56
    2015 OK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works R56
    2015 OK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works R56
    2015 OK-Chiptuning MINI John Cooper Works R56

    Source: OK-Chiptuning via Miranda Media 

  • Maxi-Tuner MINI John Cooper Works is 260HP and 390NM Strong!

    2015 Maxi-Tuner MINI John Cooper Works F56 Side ViewMaxi-Tuner MINI John Cooper Works is literally a supermini. It stands out with new exterior appearance and more power than ever. Based on the most powerful production MINI, the F56, this modified JCW has added numerous visual and performance upgrades. The package comprises of ‘MaxPower’ and ‘MaxSound’ kits and other additions to the exterior… but let’s see what has really happened here.

    Exterior

    The appearance of the Maxi-Tuner MINI John Cooper Works stands out due to some extra visual goodies. The car stands out as an extrovert due to its new front bumper with huge air intakes. The tuner also added sculpted side sills for more athletic appearance. At the rear we see a diffuser that frames its dual exhaust outlets.

    Engine Uprated with MaxPower

    The production version of the JCW F56 is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, which is 231 hp (170 kW) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) strong.

    SEE ALSO: Maxi-Tuner Porsche 991 Turbo and Turbo S with Maxi-Power

    Thanks to the in-house made MaxPower plug and play auxiliary ECU with bespoke wiring harness, Maxi-Tuner achieved a power boost of 260 hp (191 kW) and a peak torque increase of up to 390 Nm (288 lb-ft). This is an addition of 29 hp and 70 Nm.

    2015 Maxi-Tuner MINI John Cooper Works F56 Engine

    The bigger output also results in crisper e-gas throttle response, better driving dynamics and faster acceleration against the stopwatch. However, the intelligent control electronics in the MaxPower box do not change the factory diagnostic and service functions.

    This means that the engine temperature reaches the factory limits, the system reverts to standard parameters, retarding the ignition to reduce power.

    MaxSound

    Maxi-Tuner MINI John Cooper Works is also fitted with custom MaxSound sport exhaust system. This one contributes to a louder voice to match the enhanced performance. It is made from high quality stainless steel and features sport exhaust features 70 mm tube diameters and a remote control for the flap system. At last, Maxi-Tuner left both tailpipes operating despite of the flap position.

    2015 Maxi-Tuner MINI John Cooper Works F56
    2015 Maxi-Tuner MINI John Cooper Works F56
    2015 Maxi-Tuner MINI John Cooper Works F56
    2015 Maxi-Tuner MINI John Cooper Works F56
    2015 Maxi-Tuner MINI John Cooper Works F56
    2015 Maxi-Tuner MINI John Cooper Works F56

    Source: MaxiTuner

  • Krumm-Performance Uprates MINI John Cooper Works [VIDEO]

    To be honest, Krumm-Performance is another German tuning company which I hear of for the first time. However, it has been present on the automotive market for ten years now and it specializes in customizing MINIs only. Performance uprating and chassis engineering is the field of work of the tuner. Under the spotlight today is a MINI John Cooper Works conversion.

    The car received a Stage III kit, which boasted the engine power to 300 hp (213 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. The kit comprises of Hybrid Turbo, diverse heat protection shields, Akrapovic downpipe, racing intercooler with E-certification mark, Pipercross air filter element and more.

    SEE ALSO: MINI Introduces the More Powerful John Cooper Works

    In addition to Stage III the engine of the MINI JCW received diverse intercooler air tubes without resonators as well as a custom exhaust system and intake. Furthermore, the gear box is delivered by Drexler LSD and has Krumm-Performance setup, while the racing clutch is from Sachs and features sinter pads and single mass flywheel.

    The brake system is delivered by AP-Racing and comprises of 4-piston calipers, 330×32 mm floating wave brake discs with optimized sharp airing, PFC 01 brake pads and steel flex tubes. This MINI is running on 17-inch ATS-GTR rims which have been coupled with Dunlop Direzza 03G tires.

    Left to mention are the Challenge front lip, the rear diffusor and the special wrapping by Camshaft. Oh, and let’s not forget to say something about the interior. It has been supplied with Recaro SPG XL seats, CAE-Ultra shifter, OMP Ultraleggero steering wheel, Schroth Profi 3FE 6-point belts and Wiechers Clubsport rollover bar.

    Of course, don’t forget to check out the special short film about this exciting project:

    httpv://youtu.be/Kr8qZsNgF8o

    2015 Krumm-Performance MINI John Cooper Works
    2015 Krumm-Performance MINI John Cooper Works
    2015 Krumm-Performance MINI John Cooper Works
    2015 Krumm-Performance MINI John Cooper Works
    2015 Krumm-Performance MINI John Cooper Works
    2015 Krumm-Performance MINI John Cooper Works
    2015 Krumm-Performance MINI John Cooper Works
    2015 Krumm-Performance MINI John Cooper Works

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Krumm-Performance

  • Meet the Spicy 2015 MINI John Cooper Works!

    MINI-John-Cooper-Works-Hardtop-THUMBMeet the new 2015 MINI John Cooper Works Hardtop! The spicy little car is set to make a debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The event is starting on 12th of January and we can’t wait to see all of the good stuff there. The launch of the new JCW celebrates MINI’s passion for motorsport for 55 years. This is evident via the most powerful engine that drives the car, the refined suspension technology and the desisn features which not only improve the aerodynamics but also highlights the styling.

    Precisely, 2015 John Cooper Works Hardtop is powered by the 2.0- liter 4-cylinder engine. This unit was developed based on the MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology. Speaking in numbers, it produces a maximum output of 228 hp (168 kW) and a maximum torque of 320 Nm (236 ft-lbs).

    They allow the MINI to sprint from standstill to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds when equipped with the automatic transmission. In case the car is equipped with the manual one, this number jumps to 6.1 seconds. In general, this is an increase in sprint capability of 0.3 seconds or 5 percent as compared to the previous generation hardtop.

    Moreover, the technology for the engine, suspension, body and interior have all been derived directly from motorsport racing. In this way they define the exclusive and performance-oriented character of the 2015 JCW. Just take a look at the pictures of the interior. We have rarely seen such exquisiteness and craftsmanship in a production car.

    Of course, the car has been created in order to appeal to those, who appreciate authentic race feeling. The 228 hp engine, the sports exhaust system and sports suspension are complemented by the 17-inch John Cooper Works light alloy wheels.

    In addition, a special sports brake system was developed. For this MINI collaborated with the specialists at Brembo. The John Cooper Works aerodynamics kit comprises of a model-specific rear spoiler and newly developed John Cooper Works sports seats, which include integrated headrest.

    This set of characteristics reflects not only in the high-speed acceleration capacity but also in car’s exceptional agility, a high degree of steering precision and precise handling on the road as well as excellent deceleration figures. Ever since John Cooper discovered the racing talent of the classic Mini in the 60’s, his name became a symbol of MINI’s success on the race track.

    MINI John Cooper Works Hardtop
    MINI John Cooper Works Hardtop
    MINI John Cooper Works Hardtop
    MINI John Cooper Works Hardtop
    MINI John Cooper Works Hardtop
    MINI John Cooper Works Hardtop
    MINI John Cooper Works Hardtop
    MINI John Cooper Works Hardtop
    MINI John Cooper Works Hardtop
    MINI John Cooper Works Hardtop
    MINI John Cooper Works Hardtop
    MINI John Cooper Works Hardtop
    MINI John Cooper Works Hardtop
    MINI John Cooper Works Hardtop
    MINI John Cooper Works Hardtop
    MINI John Cooper Works Hardtop
    MINI John Cooper Works Hardtop
    MINI John Cooper Works Hardtop
    MINI John Cooper Works Hardtop
    MINI John Cooper Works Hardtop

    Source: MINI

  • Mcchip-DKR Mini John Cooper Works With A 2.0 TFSI And DSG Gearbox

    Mcchip-DKR-Mini-John-Cooper-Works-TFSI-DSG-shadowMcchip-DKR-Mini-John-Cooper-Works-TFSI-DSG-mediumHow often do you get to see some tuner house behind the scenes action? Most of the time it’s just figures and dyno graphs. Ever wondered what it takes to actually do a proper overhaul?

    If you have, it’s your lucky day. The guys at Mcchip-DKR have the uncanny idea to lift and transplant a Volkswagen TFSI engine. The recipient? A Mini John Cooper Works. Apparently, the JCW Mini’s 208 hp and 261 Nm of torque just don’t make the cut. Mcchip are anticipating a much more volatile end product with 340 to 350 hp.

    The Mini’s new heart, a VAG 2.0 TFSI engine, is supposed to get new pistons and rods before the transfer. A Stage 3 kit (VLN Package) should yeald the desired power output. The rest of the JCW drive train has also been scrapped in favour of a DQ250 DSG transmission and a Drexler differential lock.

    Judging by the provided picture material, we’d reckon Mcchip are going through quite a lot of hassle. If, however, everything goes as planned, this should be one demonic piece of work.

    Mcchip-DKR-Mini-John-Cooper-Works-TFSI-DSG 02Mcchip-DKR-Mini-John-Cooper-Works-TFSI-DSG 03Mcchip-DKR-Mini-John-Cooper-Works-TFSI-DSG 04Mcchip-DKR-Mini-John-Cooper-Works-TFSI-DSG 05Mcchip-DKR-Mini-John-Cooper-Works-TFSI-DSG 06Mcchip-DKR-Mini-John-Cooper-Works-TFSI-DSG 07Mcchip-DKR-Mini-John-Cooper-Works-TFSI-DSG 08Mcchip-DKR-Mini-John-Cooper-Works-TFSI-DSG 09

    Source: Mcchip-DKR

  • MINI John Cooper Works GP and Countryman With Updated Performance

    MINI-John-Cooper-Works-GP-THUMBThe MIN John Cooper Works range will be extended for the customers in the United Kingdom with the addition of the updated performance-oriented models. The prominent feature here is the enhanced version of the 1.6-litre four-cylinder twin-scroll turbocharged petrol engine.

    The latter was optimized for the different models in the range. We are speaking about the JCW variants of the MINI Hatch, MINI Clubman, MINI Convertible, MINI Coupe and MINI Roadster. The new unit has the same levels of output and torque as its predecessor – 211 hp (155 kW) output at 6,000 rpm and 260 Nm (192 lb-ft) of torque (280 Nm/ 207 lb-ft with overboost) between 1,850 and 5,600 rpm.

    However, it will offer increased responsiveness, lower fuel consumption and cleaner emissions. The enhanced versions also include a wider utilization of MINIMALISM environmental technologies such Brake Energy Regeneration and Auto Start/Stop.

    Furthermore, for the first time in the JCW range will be offered a new engine offers a six-speed manual transmission. Of course there is an optional automatic one with manual override on the gear selected or steering wheel paddles.

    More importantly, the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman which is brand’s newest performance model will include MINI ALL4 all-wheel drive and also gets launched in UK. It has advanced traction system and comes equipped with 1.6-litre 218 hp (160 kW) engine with peak torque of 280 Nm (207 lb-ft). The unit is mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox with Steptronic function.

    The interior of this John Cooper Works model includes sports seats, sports steering wheel, Piano Black interior detailing and an anthracite-coloured roof liner. MINI’s innovative Centre Rail storage and attachment system is part of standard specification.

    What is more MINI John Cooper Works GP which brings about the highest level of performance, and will be included in the range that is going to be launched. The JCW GP road car utilizes race-developed technology and is the fastest production model that MINI has ever built. It will be limited to just 2000 examples worldwide.

    It is packed with JCW motorsport features does not have a rear bench seat, hence the hot hatch boasts outstanding performance. The engine has been reworked to develop 218 hp(160 kW), pushing the car from 0-100 km/h in just 6.3 seconds and on the way to a Vmax of 150 mph.

    Other modifications include adjustable coilover suspension, a new sports brake system, a more aerodynamic body kit and unique alloy wheels with performance tyres. The exterior color is the exclusive metallic Thunder Grey, but has added accents with the vibrant red finish around the air scoop on the bonnet, door mirror caps and front air intakes. The interior of the model includes two Recaro sports seats with special GP stitching.

    MINI John Cooper Works GP is priced at £28 790, while MINI John Cooper Works Countryman has a starting price of £28 595.

    MINI John Cooper Works models performance data:

    MINI John Cooper Works models – key performance data Model 0-62mph/secs Top speed/mph Combined fuel economy/mpg CO2/g/km
    manual (auto) manual (auto) manual (auto) manual(auto)
    MINI JCW Hatch 6.5 (6.7) 148 (147) 42.8 (39.8) 153 (165)
    MINI JCW Clubman 6.8 (7.0) 148 (147) 42.2 (39.2) 155 (167)
    MINI JCW Convertible 6.9 (7.0) 146 (145) 41.5 (38.7) 157 (169)
    MINI JCW Coupe 6.4 (6.6) 144 (148) 42.8 (39.8) 153 (165)
    MINI JCW Roadster 6.5 (6.7) 147 (146) 41.5 (38.7) 157 (169)
    MINI JCW Countryman 7.0 (7.0) 140 (139) 38.2 (35.8) 172 (184)
    MINI JCW GP 6.3 150 39.8 165
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP
    MINI John Cooper Works GP

    Source: MINI

  • 2013 MINI Cooper JCW GP – US Price $35,950

    MINI US has announced the price of the special edition JCW GP. The hot hatchback, which is able to lap the Nurburgring in just 8 minutes and 23 seconds is priced from $35,950.

    The new 2012 MINI John Cooper Works GP is powered by a BMW-sourced 1.6-liter turbocharged petrol engine with 215HP (160 kW) and 280Nm (207 lb-ft) of torque. This is good for 6.3 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. In other words, the MINI JCW GP is insanely fast.

    The GP variant is a little more than $5000 more expensive than the regular JCW, but it comes with a nice fully-adjustable suspension and a significant weight reduction of 55 kg (121 lb). If you think that is not very much, check the curb weight of the car – 1235 kg (2722 lb). It is always hard to reduce the weight of a small car, because it doesn’t have too many components, which can be removed or lightened.

    The GP model also comes with a big brake system including huge 335 mm front brake discs, so the smallest wheels, which can be fitted, are 18”. Commenting wheels, we have to say that this car comes with special performance tires for maximum traction on the race track.

    Other highlight is the GP Racing mode for ESP allowing perfect handling and tire slip, when it is needed in order to be as fast as you want.

    The 2012 MINI John Cooper Works GP is not just a good car, it is a perfect toy for track days and everyday driving.

    MINI John Cooper Works GP Paris 2012
    MINI John Cooper Works GP Paris 2012

    Source: MINI

  • MINI Cooper JCW

    MINI will offer a JCW factory tuning kit featuring increase the power and performance of the standard car.

    It will be available for Cooper S, Cooper S Clubman and Cooper S Convertible.

    JCW factory tuning kit boosts the engine of MINI Cooper S to 200PS (147 kW) at 5700RPM and 250Nm (184 lb-ft) between 1250 and 5000RPM. However, the overboost function makes 270 Nm (more…)