Most Powerful Road-Going Minis Launched
Mini has launched its most powerful road-going engine for John Cooper Works versions of its Clubman and SUV Countryman.
Both will have a 301bhp four-cylinder turbo gasoline engine up around 73bhp on the previous motor while torque has been upped by 73ft-lbs to 331ft-lbs. Used via a new 8-speed Steptronic sports transmission with mechanical differential lock and an all-wheel drive system, the Clubman boasts a 0-62 sprint time of 4.9 seconds with the larger Countryman not far behind with 5.1 seconds on the way to an electronically limited top speed of 155mph.
The 2.0-liter engines have been completely redesigned using variable valve control and variable camshaft control on the intake and exhaust sides, known as double VANOS. It also employs an advanced cooling system developed to maintain optimum running temperatures for the engine through the rev range. Its claimed fuel efficiency is 38mpg (31mpg US) while emitting less than 169g/km of CO2.
Standard features include LED headlights, Mini driving modes, a navigation pack offering a 6.5-inch touchscreen display and real time traffic information. The new John Cooper Works Clubman and John Cooper Works Countryman are available from July 2019, priced from £34,250 ($44,303) and £35,550 ($45,984) respectively.
— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in London. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_
