With MINI set to become an all-electric manufacturer by the early 2030s, the transition has already begun - so the larger Countryman is getting an electric version for the first time. However, there's still time for some interesting internal-combustion-powered MINIs to be launched too, and here's one of them: it's the new, 300hp Countryman John Cooper Works (JCW).
Strong performance assured
Power in the new Countryman JCW comes from a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, which has exciting, techy-sounding updates such as optimised pistons, con-rods and engine mounts. It delivers 300hp and 400Nm of torque, which drives all four wheels (hence 'All4' badging) through an automatic transmission - likely the eight-speed dual-clutch unit from the preceding JCW. Despite the edgy, and large, bodywork of the new Countryman, it an aerodynamically efficient car with a 0.26 coefficient of drag figure, and so all of this equates to a machine which can run 0-100km/h in 5.4 seconds and on to a top speed of 250km/h.
Of course, power is nothing without control and so the Countryman JCW has a number of chassis upgrades designed to help it cope with its strong turbocharged powertrain. The All4 set-up is tuned for sporty driving, while high-performance brakes are picked out by red callipers. MINI has also enlarged the tyres, with a 245mm width being the pick of the stats - this gives the car bigger contact patches and more grip. Said tyres will be wrapped around aerodynamically optimised 19- and 20-inch alloy wheels.
Naturally, with the forthcoming MINI Countryman SE All4 offering up plenty of performance from its 313hp electric motor (0-100km/h in 5.6 seconds), the company has taken the opportunity to enhance the JCW's one natural advantage over the electric model - sound. Active exhausts give the fastest petrol Countryman a distinctive voice anyway, but an 'exclusive' JCW sound extension is said to boost the noise of the engine at start-up, while also "intensifying the soundscape with racing-inspired engine sounds".
JCW-specific design features, plus new logo
Visually, the hot Countryman features the usual enhancements for a high-performance model, including larger lower-front air intakes with a JCW-specific vertical reflector bar, a high-gloss black octagonal radiator grille and horizontal bars in the LED headlights in something called 'JCW Signature Mode'. This model is also the first to feature the redesigned John Cooper Works logo, finished in a black, red and white colour scheme.
The roof can be finished in contrast colours, such as Chili Red in the pictures, and it has a 'floating' look at the C-pillar (just behind the back doors) for added aesthetic interest. At the rear, quad exhausts and a chunky lower bumper are teamed to the new JCW emblem and, again, JCW Signature Mode LED taillights.
Inside, a horizontal line bisects the doors and main fascia, creating clearly defined upper and lower volumes. In the former of these, you'll spot vertical door handles and air vents, these features sitting against a dashboard finished in red and black - a JCW nod to the MINI's racing heritage - that is made from recycled polyester. The rear seats can slide forwards and backwards by up to 130mm, while the boot measures 460 litres with a full complement of passengers onboard, and 1,450 litres if you fold the rear bench away.
High-tech car, both inside and for safety
In terms of technology, almost all the main functions are housed on a central, circular OLED high-resolution display. There is the MINI Toggle Bar below, with these switches used for various driving systems, but in the main you'll be using that big touchscreen to set the car up how you want it. Kit will include voice control to help out with this side of things.
Beyond the in-car toys, MINI is claiming Level 2 partially autonomous driving functionality for the Countryman JCW, thanks to the fitment of 12 ultrasonic sensors and four surround-view cameras on the exterior of the car. This means an option will be the Driving Assistant Professional package, which is capable of detecting gaps in traffic required to change lanes as you're heading towards a motorway exit, and then bring the vehicle up to the optimum speed for assisted lane-changing. Drivers can also, if they like, take their hands off the wheel at speeds of up to 60km/h on highway routes, with the car managing the steering accordingly - although the human behind the wheel still needs to monitor traffic and be ready to intervene, says MINI.
Stefanie Wurst, head of the MINI brand, said of the new JCW: "The MINI John Cooper Works Countryman embodies a unique combination of style, power and a sense of adventure. With its powerful 300hp engine and sporty design, it is the perfect companion for anyone looking for something special."
The new MINI Countryman JCW will cost from €64,485 in Ireland.