MINI John Cooper Works breaks cover

Revealed in a pre-production concept form at 2014 Detroit Auto Show earlier this year, MINI has now officially revealed the all-new Hardtop John Cooper Works. With some subtle tweaks, the production version looks almost identical, and will be making its debut at the same event next month.

On the outside, the hot hatch features enlarged intakes up front, body color-matched side sills, roof-mounted spoiler and a rear diffuser with chrome-finished exhaust tips. While a new sports steering wheel with contrast stitching, more supportive front seats, special badging and stainless steel pedal covers are the prominent elements inside the plush cabin.

Under the hood, is an uprated version of the turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine already found in the Cooper S, with output dialed up to 228 bhp between 5,200 and 6,000 rpm, while the peak torque stands at 320 Nm available in the 1,250 – 4,800 rpm range. Drive is to the front wheels only, through a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic with paddle shifters, and to help the car through the corners is an electronic differential lock. Other performance specs include sport-tuned suspension (adjustable dampers are available at an additional cost), Brembo brakes and 17-inch wheels with 205/45 tyres (18-inch wheels optional).

As per company claims, the new hatch is now 0.8 of a second quicker than the previous model and now hits 0-100 kmph in 6.1 seconds. The vehicle’s curb weight is also around 100 kg lighter than the weight of its predecessor, measuring in at approximately 1,205 kgs.