The new Mini John Cooper Works hot hatch has been teased via a concept car that will appear at the 2014 Detroit motor show. The new, third-generation BMW-owned Mini launches early next year and while Mini Cooper and Cooper S models initially kick the range off, the JCW variant looks set to follow them shortly afterwards.
The concept is a cosmetic preview for now, though the production version is likely to be very similar. Its combination of ‘Bright Highways Grey’ hand-polished paint and Chili Red detailing is a blatant nod towards the Mini GP’s trademark colour scheme, while the 18in alloy wheels are particularly striking.
There is scant information on the new Mini JCW’s mechanicals, other than an increased wheelbase and bigger track widths over its predecessor benefitting the dynamics. While the outgoing John Cooper Works could do with better front-end traction, it’s defined by its slightly uncouth, unruly nature which brings to mind some of the more raucous hot hatchbacks of old. It would be a shame if this was heavily diluted.
While the 1.6-litre turbo engine of the outgoing JCW has been wound up close to 270bhp in the Peugeot RCZ R, the new JCW is expected to upgrade to a 2-litre four-cylinder engine, a more potent version of the 189bhp/221lb ft unit used in the new Cooper S most likely. Expect a power output of around 220bhp, yielding a top speed in excess of 150mph and a 0-60 time of around six seconds.
A lighter kerb weight and improved aerodynamics are promised, with a new set of air intakes up front replacing the basic Mini’s foglights, a more intricately designed rear spoiler and a diffuser that incorporates carbonfibre exhaust surrounds. Though the latter touch featured on the BMW M4 Concept but is conspicuous by its absence on the production car…
More information will be revealed when the Mini John Cooper Works Concept takes its bow at the 2014 Detroit motor show. Expect sales by summer 2014, prices starting at around £23,000.
