New MINI Countryman and Clubman JCW Unleashed – 2.0-litre turbo: 306hp, 450 Nm

MINI has unveiled two of the most powerful models in the brand’s 60-year history: the John Cooper Works (JCW) Countryman and Clubman.

Under the hood of both cars is the same 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder (also found in the Cooper S Countryman and Clubman), but with the wick turned up to produce 306 hp and a whopping 450 Nm of torque between 1,750 and 4,500 rpm; 75 hp and 100 Nm more than their respective predecessors.

To handle the added power, the 2.0-litre has been modified to include a reinforced crankshaft, a crankshaft main bearing with an extended cross-section, upgraded pistons and connecting rods, and a new vibration damper with optimised cooling. The compression ratio has also been reduced – from 10.2 to 9.5:1 – to cope with the additional charge pressure from a larger turbocharger.

In addition, the turbocharger integrated with the exhaust manifold is fitted with a blow-off valve for better engine response. The air intake duct has also been redeveloped. Upgraded multi-hole fuel injectors now provide more fuel, at an injection pressure of up to 350 bar. The cooling system has also been heavily updated to include two external radiators, a model-specific expansion tank, independent cooling module mounting, a bigger cooling fan, and separate condenser. Elsewhere a new sports exhaust system with reduced backpressure has been developed for both models.

Power is transmitted to an 8-speed automatic transmission which is then distributed to all four-wheels through MINI’s ALL4 all-wheel drive system. A mechanical LSD is fitted at the front axle for better traction. Even the AWD has been beefed up with a larger flexible disc for the propeller shaft and stronger rear drive shafts to deal with the added power. The ALL4 system is interconnected with the DSC Dynamic Stability Control and constantly calculates the ideal power distribution ratio between the front and rear wheels.

The transmission also features a Launch Control function which turns in an acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds for the JCW Clubman, while the JCW Countryman takes 5.1 seconds – 1.4 and 1.5 seconds faster than in the respective outgoing models. Both models are electronically limited to 250 km/h.

The chassis has also undergone improvements; newly designed swivel bearings enable improved camber values on the front wheels. Elsewhere, the suspension and steering systems have been fettled with to offer a sharper drive and better grip during cornering. Optionally offered for both models is an adaptive chassis with electronically controlled dampers. Both models are fitted with a newly developed precision strut for the engine compartment, which connects the right and left suspension domes.

Part of the standard equipment is the 18 inch John Cooper Works light metal wheels in Black Grip Spoke design. The brake system has been improved and now contains 4-piston fixed brake calliper feature on the rear wheels. Large 360 mm (front) and 330 mm (rear) discs further ensure adequate stopping power under hard driving.

On the outside, both models feature an individual design for the side scuttle trim and a JCW logo on both the radiator grille and tailgate. The central air inlet of both models has a honeycomb pattern structure. Contrasting paintwork in red for the roof and the mirror caps can be optionally had for both models.

The inlet of the MINI JCW Countryman now features a red surround and while a red cross-member now subdivides the newly designed radiator grille of the JCW Clubman.  Likewise, the Clubman’s headlamps, rear lights, and rear apron also display the new design of the latest model revision.

On the inside, both models receive JCW sports seats with integrated headrests, a sport steering wheel, selector lever, and anthracite headliner.

Elsewhere, keyless ride, the MINI drive mode selector, and a 6.5-inch central display (redesigned graphics) with touchscreen functionality feature as standard.

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