Introduction
When affixed to a Mini Cooper, John Cooper Works, or JCW, insignias typically signal the performance-tuned version of the small hatchback. At the 2015 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit,
Mini introduced the latest JCW Hardtop, which is said to deliver remarkable performance in a compact package.
Exterior Features
In addition to the John Cooper Works badges, revised styling in the form of a functional aerodynamics kit separates this version of the Cooper Hardtop from others. Highlights include large front air inlets for improved cooling, honeycomb grille with red trim, standard automatic LED headlights with LED running lights, unique wheel arches, larger exhaust outlets, and a rear spoiler that generates downforce at high speed.
Rebel Green is an exclusive color for this version of the 2015 Cooper. If that is not to your liking, 12 other colors are available, and the roof can be painted white, black, or an exclusive Chili Red color.
Interior Features
A standard dual-zone automatic climate control system keeps occupants cool while sitting in special Carbon Black front sport seats rendered in a blend of fabric and Dinamica simulated suede. A leather and Dinamica combination is option
al.
Additionally, the new Mini JCW Hardtop is equipped with a dark gray headliner, piano black trim, red interior accents, darkened speedometer and tachometer faces, and stainless steel pedals. Fold the rear seat and this car holds 34 cu. ft. of cargo.
Optional Features
Mini JCW Hardtop buyers will be able to customize their car in a number of ways. In addition to the selection of colors, interior trims, and materials, a long list of options includes safety and infotainment technologies plus a head-up display, panoramic glass roof, and a Cockpit Chrono package with sports instrumentation including an oil pressure gauge, turbo-boost gauge, and a chronometer with a stopwatch function.
Under the Hood
A turbocharged, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine makes 228 horsepower from 5,200 rpm to 6,000 rpm, and 236 lb.-ft. of torque between 1,250 rpm and 4,800 rpm. A 6-speed manual gearbox with rev-matching capability is standard equipment, but for speedier acceleration buyers will want the optional 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. Performance Control and Torque Steer Compensation technologies are standard, and Mini Driving Modes include driver-selected Green, Mid, and Sport settings.
According to Mini, the automatic transmission supplies acceleration to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds, while cars with the manual gearbox require 6.1 seconds to attain the same
velocity. Plus, the automatic equips the Mini JCW Hardtop with automatic start/stop technology, which helps to conserve fuel when the car is idling at intersections or stopped in traffic. Top speed is a claimed 153 mph.
Mini includes an electronic differential lock control, sports exhaust system, sports braking system with red-painted Brembo 4-piston calipers, and a sports suspension for the new JCW Hardtop. A standard suspension is a no-cost option for people who prefer a softer ride quality. Alternatively, Dynamic Damper Control is optional, providing two different suspension setups. Light-alloy 17-in. wheels are standard, with three additional designs optional in 17- and 18-in. sizes.
Safety
Eight air bags are included as standard equipment, and Mini JCW Hardtop buyers can opt for an Active Driving Assistant suite of technologies including active cruise control, collision and pedestrian warning, automatic high-beam headlights, reversing camera, and park-assist sensors.
Technology
Tech-related options for the new Mini JCW Hardtop include a premium audio system, navigation system, and Mini Connected smartphone pairing and services. An 8.8-in. color display screen is also available, complete with a Mini Touch Controller with touch-sensing control pad.