The Largest MINI Ever is Now Also the Most Powerful
The new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman features the most powerful engine ever to be fitted in a MINI.
Late last year, the British automaker introduced its second-generation Countryman as the biggest and most versatile model in MINI’s entire range. Now, the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman with 228 horsepower is the most powerful and is combined with the standard all-wheel-drive system ALL4. With a zero-to-60 mph time of 6.2 seconds with either the standard six-speed manual transmission or optional eight-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic transmission, the JCW version is 0.8 to 0.9 seconds quicker than the MINI Cooper S Countryman ALL4.
Also included on the model are 18-inch John Cooper Works light alloy wheels, a Brembo sports brake system, special body features to optimize aerodynamic properties and cooling air intake, as well as a model-specific cockpit with John Cooper Works sports seats. Standard features include MINI Driving Modes, LED headlights, Comfort Access keyless entry and a 6.5-inch screen with the MINI Connected infotainment system.
SEE ALSO: MINI’s Largest Model Ever is Also its First Plug-in Hybrid
Under the hood is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 258 pound-feet of torque to accompany the 228 hp. According to the British automaker, particular features of the new engine include specific pistons, a large charge-air cooler and an additional radiator. There is also a sports exhaust system with a controllable exhaust flap featuring tapered chrome covers for the dual tailpipes.
With a manual transmission, the U.S. model will tip the scales at 3,613 pounds while the automatic-equipped version weighs 3,653 lbs. As the largest MINI model yet, the Countryman measures 169.8-inches long, 71.7-inches wide and 61.3-inches tall while riding on a 105.1-inch wheelbase.
The new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman will make its world premiere at the 2017 Shanghai Motor Show and deliveries in the U.S. will begin April 2017.
Discuss this story on our MINI Forum
Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
More by Jason Siu
Comments
Join the conversation
"3653".....hmmmmm should put tracks on it.....weighs enough to be a bull dozer.