Mini John Cooper Works CAR review

Mini is attempting to create a sub-brand with JCW – think of it as the company’s own M Division – which means the John Cooper Works is more than the ultimate Mini. It's the first of many high-performance, high-hoon Minis.

The first JCW, just driven by CAR Online, goes to war with the Honda Civic Type-R and Ford Focus ST, and while not as spacious as the Ford or Honda, it promises stunning pace and superb consumption and emissions figures. Or so Mini claims.

So how does the John Cooper Works differ from the Cooper S?

There are many similarities – but a few crucial differences too. First up, the four-cylinder turbocharged engine co-developed with PSA gets 208bhp – up from 173bhp – thanks to new intake valves, reinforced pistons, a new exhaust and revised turbocharger. Mini has confirmed this motor will not power any future Peugeot/Citroen vehicle: it is a JCW motor, and a batty one at that.

Elsewhere, the Mini gets the JCW aerodynamic kit, bespoke 17-inch alloy wheels (18s are an option) and larger discs with upgraded calipers. The suspension and seats are as per the Cooper S, but air-con and Dynamic Traction Control are fitted as standard for the first time on a Mini.

Click 'Next' below to read more of our Mini John Cooper Works first drive