Mini brings JCW into line with rest of Hatch range

MINI has debuted its updated Hatch John Cooper Works (JCW) hot hatch, with the pint-sized performance offering scoring a new look, extra tech and more standard equipment than before, but no extra muscle.

Following in the wheel tracks of the regular Hatch and Convertible range that was facelifted in January, the JCW flaunts a new front apron with enlarged (functional) air vents and grilles, redesigned side scuttles and a new rear apron with a functional diffuser.

Changes have been made inside the cabin too with the new JCW being gifted a redesigned dashboard and a new 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, powered by an all-new operating system.

To help inject some extra flair into the display, the ambience of the screen changes colour in response to which drive mode is selected, however there are reportedly just two colours: blue when in Lounge mode and red when in Sport.

Live widgets can be added optionally to boost the system’s intuitiveness, as can an all-digital instrument cluster and a new range of extras packs containing features like lane departure warning and stop and go function for the active cruise control.

Another new piece of standard equipment is Park Distance Control with rear sensors – Mini Australia says it will detail the full specification and pricing in full closer to the JCW’s local launch in the third quarter of the year.

Under the skin is an upgraded braking system co-developed with Brembo, an updated and refined sports suspension set-up with the option of adaptive damping and a new 85mm sports exhaust with dual outlets to help up the aural stakes.

Power in the JCW still comes courtesy of a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine developing 170kW of power and 320Nm of torque, all of which is sent to the front wheels by either an eight-speed automatic (standard) or six-speed manual transmission.

Opting for the auto will see the JCW race from 0-100km/h in 6.1 seconds, with the three-pedalled DIY option stopping the clock in a slightly slower 6.3s.

With no changes made to the engine, the JCW’s combined fuel consumption also remains steady at 6.0 litres per 100km, while emissions stand at 137 grams of CO2 per kilometre.

Mini Australia has sold 394 hatches so far this year ending March, giving the funky icon a commanding 60.4 per cent share of the admittedly sparse $25,000-plus light car segment.