Further Mini JCW details emerge

MINI Australia has released further details on its forthcoming John Cooper Works (JCW) and JCW Convertible models ahead of their Australian arrival in the second quarter of 2025.

The two petrol-powered models will offer a 170kW and 380Nm output courtesy of a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine and race-inspired chassis. Mini quotes a 0-100km/h time of 6.1 seconds for the hatch and 6.4 seconds for the Convertible with top speeds of 250km/h and 245km/h respectively.

Both front-wheel driven examples utilise a dual-clutch transmission with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters in addition to a performance braking package finished in Chili Red and with JCW logos at each corner.

Mini Australia quotes a combined cycle fuel consumption range of between 6.5 and 6.8 litres per 100km for the hatch and 6.8 and 7.1L/100km for the Convertible. CO2 emissions for the duo are listed at up to 154 grams per 100km and 161g/km respectively.

Stylistically, the JCW duo are characterised by a large, octagonal grille in high-gloss black, tricolour JCW logo, and wide air vents that “dominate the front view”.

Optional red or black bonnet stripes are available, joining all LED lighting, a rear spoiler and diffuser, central tailpipe, and exclusive alloy wheel designs in 17- or 18-inch diameters.

Eleven paint colours will be available, each with optional contrasting roof and mirror caps in Chili Red or Jet Black. An exclusive exterior paint finish in Sparkling Cooper Grey is also available for the Convertible model whose soft top is offered in black or with contrasting grey Union Jack motif.

The folding soft top of the JCW Convertible retracts completely in just 18 seconds and at speeds of up to 30km/h. It may also be partially opened (400mm) “like a sliding roof”.

Remaining inside we find Mini’s familiar red and black JCW design, sport seats (upholstered in vegan leather with multicoloured knitted fabric at the shoulders and red accent stitching), a sport steering wheel with textile six o’clock spoke, a knitted surface on the dashboard upper, and a grade-specific harman/kardon audio system.

The JCW range further includes new-generation Mini standards such as the high-resolution circular OLED centre display, Mini toggle bar, voice control, and wireless charging pad (set into the centre console).

Safety technologies for the Mini JCW range are extensive with 12 ultrasonic and four surround view cameras capable of providing digital assistance in “recurring driving manoeuvres”.

Automatic speed and distance control is said to make urban driving easier, while at higher speeds, Driving Assistant Plus can “assist the driver with steering and lane keeping”.

Further, the vehicles’ Mini Navigation system is said to make orientation even easier thanks to 3D visualisation and Augmented View. The system can also offer a display of the current traffic situation on the virtual map, and even information on parking facilities including digital payment options.

Mini Australia is yet to provide pricing for the John Cooper Works range; however it is expected there will be an incremental increase over the outgoing $57,325 hatch and $67,875 Convertible’s starting points.