FIRST LOOKS

New Mini John Cooper Works
August 09, 2008 03:45 PM    Author: Chips

A year ago, the second generation of the Mini was introduced and then the longer Mini Clubman variant. Now comes the Mini John Cooper Works (JCW) which is the most powerful variant that you can buy off the showroom floor at the Auto Bavaria and Sapura Motor dealerships. The new JCW is also the first model to be launched under the JCW ‘sub-brand’ of the MINI family.

Like the latest Cooper S, the new JCW has the newly-developed 1.6-litre 4-cylinder petron powerplant, with a twin-scroll turbocharger, direct fuel injection and a low back-pressure exhaust system, that produces 155 kW/211 bhp. Peak torque of 260 Nm is delivered as low as 1850 rpm but with the Overboost mode, it can go to an even more impressive 280 Nm momentarily. This enables it to achieve a claimed 0 to 100 km/h acceleration of 6.5 sec with a maximum speed of 238 km/h. The 6-speed manual gearbox has ratios which fully exploit the engine output.

To ensure power is effectively transferred to the road through the front wheels with minimal fuss and maximum dynamic performance, there are features like Dynamic Traction Control as standard. ABS, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Cornering Brake Control, Electronic Differential Lock Control, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Hill Assist are also present. A new feature of the DSC unique to the JCW variant is Electronic Differential Lock Control which comes on in the ‘DCS-Off’ mode, enhancing stability and cornering ability during “sporting” driving manoeuvres. Additionally, powerful disc brakes are fitted all round to guarantee short stopping distances, vital for the performance levels of the car.

Weighing less than 10 kgs each, the exclusive 17-inch light alloy wheels of the JCW are said to be the lightest production wheels in the entire market segment of the John Cooper Works. They are fitted with 205/45 84W high-performance tyres which have runflat capabilities, enabling the driver to continue driving even after complete loss of air pressure.

The Aerodynamic Kit gives the car a more powerful, striking appearance which is in keeping with its performance levels. More than just for looks, it also contributes to improved stability at high speeds, particularly with the carbonfibre spoiler on the trailing edge of the roof which provides downforce.

Inside the JCW, the ambience is conceived and designed for the sporty and the stylish with a leather sports steering wheel and the roof lining finished in Anthracite over an interior trim in Piano Black.
 
Customers can choose from a choice of nine body colours: Lightning Blue; Laser Blue; British Racing Green; Astro Black; Pure Silver; Dark Silver; Sparkling Silver; Chili Red and Pepper White. The last two colours are non-metallic shades.

The retail price for the MINI John Cooper Works (on the road, without insurance, but includes the Aerodynamic Kit and Carbon Rear Spoiler) is RM279,000. Like all other Minis, the JCW customers can also include the optional RM888 ‘Tender, Loving, Care’ (TLC) package - a service inclusive program which covers the cost of all scheduled maintenance for 3 years/50,000 kms, whichever comes first. All aspects of maintenance are covered except tyre wear and fuel.

The JCW is also available in the Clubman bodystyle (right) in some countries (but not yet in Malaysia)

Talk about the new JCW in the MTM Forum

Visit the MINI Malaysia website to know more or to locate a MINI dealer

Looking for the classic Mini models? Check the MTM Database, updated weekly

Need to quickly sell off your vehicle to buy a JCW? Advertise in Motor Trader for faster results!
 
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