Each time that Mini launches a new generation of the Countryman crossover, a John Cooper Works performance version is always expected to follow. When Mini unveiled the next-gen 2017 Mini Countryman at the 2016 Los Angeles Auto Show, people were also expected the carmaker to release a JCW variant – especially that the current generation had one.
Now, it is official. Mini will be offering John Cooper Works version of the new-gen Countryman. Bound for launch for the 2018 model year, the new Mini John Cooper Works Countryman takes the Mini Countryman to a whole new level, both in terms of looks and performance. Mini is planning to unveil the new Mini John Cooper Works Countryman to the global public the Shanghai Motor Show in April 2017, with sales in the United States set to commence in the same month.
Even at a glance, the new Mini John Cooper Works Countryman exudes a fusion of athleticism and versatility. It is also laden with a number of features that distinguish it from a typical Countryman. Measuring 169.8 inches in length, 71.7 inches in width and 61.3 inches in height, this performance version of the Mini Countryman has been given a number of model-specific features like the John Cooper Works Aerodynamic Kit. This kit includes the large air intakes in the front apron and a model-specific roof spoiler. The Mini John Cooper Works Countryman is also provided with LED units as headlights.
Chili Red accentuation lines are found in several locations on the exterior of this performance crossover like on the hexagon radiator grille with honeycomb pattern and the side scuttles. Chili Red stripes are painted on the bonnet and on the side. The roof, the side mirror housings and the Brembo brake calipers are also finished in Chili Red. Interestingly, Chili Red is also found inside the Mini John Cooper Works Countryman, like on the seats, doors and instruments. The John Cooper Works logo – also in Chili Red -- can be found on the hexagon radiator grille, on the scuttles, and on the tailgate. Customers could choose from a variety of four non-metallic and six metallic exterior finishes, including the Rebel Green color.
As a John Cooper Works model, this performance variant boasts of power levels higher than a typical Countryman. Its core is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that is boosted by MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology. This turbocharged engine delivers 228 hp of max output at between 5,000 and 6,000 rpm and 258 lb.-ft. of peak torque available between 1,450 and 4,500 rpm.
Power is sent to all four wheels through a six-speed manual transmission (standard) or an eight-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic transmission (optional) to allow the Mini John Cooper Works Countryman to launch itself from zero to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 145 mph. This amount of power is complemented by an aggressive suspension setup as well as the dynamic braking system from Brembo.