MINI JCW front viewNext to the 3 Series, BMW is also debuting the updated MINI John Cooper Works for the 2016 model year. The latest edition of the small car segment top athlete keeps the same sporting appearance and the race feeling, but now adds even more. New for this MINI edition are the technologies for the engine, suspension and aerodynamics, which have been directly taken from the motor racing. There are also model-specific design features for the exterior and interior, which make this three-door beauty even more individual.

Exterior

The specific design of the car is unmistakable. Just take a look of the new LED headlamps with white direction indicators or the wheel arch surround with distinctive contours. At the front, the radiator grille is emblematic for the JCW as are the side scuttles and tailgate JCW label.

In addition, the rear now features sports exhaust system with new special tailpipes. MINI is also offering an entirely new exterior color for the vehicle, and it is called Rebel Green. It comes exclusively for this car and won't be featured in other MINI versions.

SEE ALSO: BMW 3 Series Family Gets Minor Updates for 2016 Model Year

We must also mention that the body of the car has been aerodynamically optimized and now features JCW front apron with large cooling air inlets which also occupy the space allocated to the fog lamps. In the aero treatment are also playing big role the distinctive side sill and rear apron design as well as the John Cooper Works rear spoiler.

The car is running on exclusive 17-inch John Cooper Works Race Spoke light alloys behind which we see newly developed Brembo sports brakes.

MINI JCW Interior

Interior

The interior is as characteristic as the exterior, because of the special John Cooper Works treatment. It is visible through the sports seats in Dinamica fabric that also feature integrated headrests.

Moreover, there are JCW entry sills, steering wheel with multifunction buttons and shift paddles, and six-speed Steptronic sports transmission. JCW-treatment can also be seen on the gear lever or selector lever and is also featured on the cockpit displays and central instrument display surround. The pedals and driver footrest come in stainless steel.

Engine Range

The most powerful engine has been introduced for this MINI, and it is the 2.0-litre 4-cylinder spark ignition unit, coming directly from the MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology. The output has been increased to 231 hp (170 kW) and the torque to 320 Nm (236 lb-ft), but still delivers combined fuel consumption rated at 6.7 l/100 km and CO2 emissions – at 155 g/km.

The engine can be connected to a six-speed manual transmission or to a six-speed Steptronic sports one. With the first the car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.3 seconds, and in 6.1 seconds with the automatic transmission. The top speed is electronically limited at 246 km/h.

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John Cooper Works Accessories

Optional for this model are the John Cooper Works accessories, which will make it even more individual. First we must mention the MINI Head-Up Display with exclusive display content. Then, there are some special exterior features like the roof and exterior mirror covers in Chili Red or the available 18-inch JCW light alloys. Of course, we can't go without the John Cooper Works bonnet stripes.

The updated MINI John Cooper Works will go on sale later this year with pricing to be announced near launch.

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Source: MINI