The MINI Clubman Now Comes in John Cooper Works Flavour

There's a new John Cooper Works model in the MINI stable, and this time it's the Clubman that enjoys the "maximum performance" treatment. It's the largest model to receive it, beating out the Countryman for the title as this new generation is larger in overall stature. As expected, these models come with the full list of available options: LED headlamps, MINI Driving Modes, Park Distance Control, Comfort Access, Radio MINI Visual Boost, multifunction buttons on the steering wheel and cruise control with brake function.

Powering it is the same 2.0-litre turbo motor from the Cooper S, but in a much higher state of tune. How much higher exactly? MINI says 39 hp higher, although these tend to be more conservative figures as MINI's products have always been frighteningly quick. The ALL4 system comes as standard, no doubt to help put the power down effectively. It is intended to be available with a 6-speed manual as standard, although if it come to our shores it will probably be only available with the optional 8-speed automatic. 

With this powertrain, the JCW Clubman can hit 100 km/h in just 6.3 seconds from a standstill- making it quicker than a Golf GTI, but not quite as brutal as a Golf R. It comes with that trick Sports Exhaust System and 18-inch lightweight alloy wheels, with the option to add Dynamic Damper Control and 19-inch wheels as well. The John Cooper Works variantt also has some exterior work done, with larger vents, a larger rear spoiler, and air curtains (read: side skirts) for a more aggressive look.

Much like other MINI products, there are a number of optional interior products. The JCW model comes standdard with a 6.5 inch colour screen, but can be upgraded to an 8.8 inch touch screen. There is also an optional Head-Up-DIsplay system that comes loaded with JCW-specific graphics. The sports seats are unique to the JCW unit, finished in Dinamica/fabric and Carbon Black with integrated headrests, matching the leather steering wheel, JCW sill finishers, and anthracite roof liners as well. 

As for the rest of the car, it's pretty much the Clubman you know and love. It's got 2 doors on either side, and a pair of cabinet doors at the rear. It;s based off of the same platform as the 2 Series Active Tourer and has plenty of bootspace for your kids' soccer equipment or your family luggage for a road trip out of town. It's the MINI for people who love the MINI values and styling but can't afford to have an extra 2-door hatchback on the side- a one size fits all kind of solution. And now that you can get it with JCW level performance, it's as quick as you need it to be.