The ICE-powered hot hatch receives JCW-inspired visual upgrades, but its performance remains unchanged.
Mini has expanded its John Cooper Works (JCW) lineup to include a trim for the gasoline-powered Cooper S, mirroring the existing electric model. While offering sporty exterior and interior enhancements, this JCW trim doesn’t boost performance beyond the standard Cooper S. It’s a precursor to fully-fledged JCW variants, both electric and gasoline-powered, which are expected to arrive soon.
Exterior enhancements for the JCW trim include a sharper front splitter and a new rear diffuser, complementing the existing sporty body kit. The high-gloss black grille, adorned with the John Cooper Works emblem, harmonizes with the black accents on the aero components, roof, and mirror caps.
The JCW trim further differentiates itself from the standard Cooper S with exclusive 17 or 18-inch alloy wheel designs and black brake calipers adorned with the JCW logo. While sharing a visual resemblance to the full-fledged JCW model, subtle differences, such as distinct wheel designs and a revised rear spoiler, will set the two apart.
Inside, the JCW Trim boasts new sport seats upholstered in a blend of synthetic leather and multicolored knit fabric with red accents. The dashboard echoes this sporty theme with a black and red checkered flag-inspired knitted surface. The rest is carried over from the Cooper S, including the circular OLED infotainment display and the configurable Mini Experience Modes.
Under the hood lies the standard turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS) and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft). Power is channeled to the front wheels through a seven-speed automatic transmission, enabling a 0-62 mph sprint in 6.6 seconds.
Mini has yet to reveal pricing for the Cooper S JCW Trim, which serves as a precursor to the full-blown JCW model launching this fall. While the JCW Trim enhances the Cooper S with sporty aesthetics, the upcoming JCW will deliver a significant performance boost through a more powerful 2.0-liter engine and a sharpened chassis.
The automaker has also confirmed a JCW version of the electric hatch, expanding its lineup above the existing Mini Cooper SE JCW Trim.
