Just a few weeks before its proper public debut at the Paris Motor Show, MINI has released full details of the limited edition John Cooper Works (JCW) GP model. It follows the template set by the 2006 'MINI Cooper S with John Cooper Works GP Tuning Kit' and takes the ultimate MINI concept even further.
Exterior
As before, the GP model will be available in a single colour scheme - 'Thunder Grey' metallic with red detailing and plenty of John Cooper Works and GP badging. The body kit is bespoke to this model and apparently the aerodynamic work done reduces lift at the rear axle by up to 90 per cent. It also looks quite different to other MINIs thanks to the new bumpers, side sills and roof spoiler. Topping it off are Xenon headlights in black shells and four-spoke 17-inch alloys. Buyers can choose between 215/40 'sports tyres' or 205/45 items that are more suited to everyday use.
Interior
MINI has stripped out the rear seats to save weight, though due to other additions it weighs in at the same mass as the non-GP car. The remaining two seats are bespoke GP-stitched Recaro items. The familiar instruments and controls have been tweaked to give them a unique appearance, and you can't miss the bright red suspension cross-brace taking the place of those rear seats.
Mechanicals
Under the bonnet sits the most powerful version of MINI's twin-scroll turbo 1.6-litre petrol engine. It produces up to 218hp at 6,000rpm, plus 260Nm of torque from 1,750- to 5,750rpm. An overboost facility operates at times between 2,000- and 5,100rpm increasing maximum torque to 280Nm. The JCW GP hits 100km/h from rest in just 6.3 seconds and it tops out at 242km/h.
A Nürburgring time of 8 minutes 23 seconds didn't come about from a little extra grunt though; MINI's engineers considerably overhauled the chassis too. Adjustable coilover suspension is fitted all-round and the camber has been altered, while the front dampers are mounted 'upside down' to increase stiffness. The braking system has come in for an overhaul as well. Six-piston callipers grab vented 330x25mm discs up front, while the solid rear items are 280x10mm.
Anything else?
MINI has reprogrammed the GP's electronic stability control system to allow a new 'GP' mode, which retains the EDLC (Electronic Differential Lock Control) that applies the brakes to a spinning wheel, but does not cut engine power. A Sport mode is still available to reduce power steering assistance and sharpen up the throttle further.
Following its debut at the Paris Motor Show, just 2,000 examples of the MINI JCW GP will be produced for global consumption. Prices have yet to be announced.
Key Facts
Engine: 1.6-litre twin-scroll turbocharged four-cylinder petrol
Transmission: front-wheel drive, six-speed manual
Body style: three-door hot hatch
Rivals: Ford Focus ST, Opel Astra OPC, Volkswagen Golf GTI
CO2 emissions: 165g/km (Band D, €481 per annum)
Combined economy: 39.8mpg (7.1 litres/100km)
Top speed: 242km/h
0-100km/h: 6.3 seconds
Power: 218hp at 6,000rpm
Torque: 280Nm at 2,000- to 5,100rpm (with overboost)
Weight: 1,235kg