THE LATEST INCARNATION OF THE JOHN COOPER WORKS MINI IS COOL AF - ESPECIALLY IN THE EU WINTER.
Like most of you out there, we have a list of cars we’d like to own, missed out on owning or are embarrassed that we have any interest in them at all. A MINI is one of those cars for this here scribe. A while back when people thought I was more relevant, I was given a MINI in John Cooper Works-spec for a week’s evaluation. I was excited to get a new car to test out, but it was “only a MINI”. I was a VW fanboi as I am today, and in my mind, nothing would compare to a GTi. I was wrong, waaaaay wrong. That little car was epic. It had a great exhaust note, better than usual because of the JCW bits and pieces, and that supercharger whine was just enough to let people know the car had a bit of grunt. I threw that car around the streets of Jo’burg like a red-headed stepchild and it stuck to the tarmac like the proverbial shit to a blanket - the handling was exceptional. I also loved all the features, the little thing ticked all the right boxes for me, besides needing that VW badge. The only real downside is that the car was a light blue colour which was nowhere near cool enough for the attitude the car had. I like it so much that I told the chap running the press cars that when they de-fleeted the car, I wanted to buy it. All was set in motion but at the last minute the car was sold to someone in the BMW group and I lost out. Oddly, I still didn’t get the GTi I should have, I instead opted for a Ford Focus ST70 - not a VW and no supercharger or turbo. I have no clue what the hell I was thinking. Anyhoo, since then I’ve had a soft spot for the MINI range. Not those fat ones that make my current Mk4 look as small as, well a MINI. Ones like what you see here - the good stuff complete with the JCW treatment. I quite like the new design of the hatchback.
The MINI John Cooper Works is no stranger to adventure, and winter is just another season to conquer - well that’s winter in places where you actually get snow and ice and proper low temperatures. Against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains and icy roads, this high-performance 3-door hatchback showcases its thrilling capabilities. Powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 170 kW and 380 Nm of torque, the JCW delivers the unmistakable MINI go-kart feel in all conditions. Acceleration from 0 - 100 km/h takes just 6.1 seconds, with a top speed of 250 km/h. Developed with racing expertise, its advanced chassis ensures razor-sharp handling, providing both exhilarating driving dynamics and reassuring stability, even on slippery surfaces. For those looking to make a bold statement, the MINI John Cooper Works now offers a suite of aerodynamic accessories that blend performance with eye-catching design. High-quality winglets, a roof spoiler, and a rear diffuser, all finished in Chili Red and high-gloss Black, enhance airflow while adding motorsport-inspired flair. Asymmetrical Chili Red stripes on the bonnet, sides, and rear further emphasize the JCW’s racing pedigree. A rally-style tow strap on the front grille and chequered flag mirror caps are a nod to MINI’s legendary motorsport history, including its iconic victories at the Monte Carlo Rally in the 1960s. Winter grip is ensured with 17-inch JCW Star Spoke wheels, paired with fixed hub covers that keep the JCW logo perfectly horizontal even while driving. Red valve caps bearing the JCW logo complete the look while adding secure protection. From snowy roads to smooth tarmac, these accessories highlight the JCW’s ability to blend practicality with performance.
Take a look at the YouTube video that shows a bit more about the wicked little new JCW-spec MINI Cooper - it's a cool new design and will take a little getting used to, but it does look cool indeed: New MINI John Cooper Works 231HP PETROL (2025) | FIRST LOOK & Sound | Planet Car News
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