Completing the new Convertible’s lineup, MINI has presented the heated-up John Cooper Works (JCW) model, while also announcing US pricing for the entire range.
The new MINI Convertible JCW borrows its sports goods from the JCW hardtop hatch that was launched last year, including its B58 codenamed 2.0-liter turbo’d four banger with 228hp and 236 lb-ft of torque, an increase of 20hp and 44 lb-ft over its predecessor, though, it’s also 135kg or nearly 300 pounds heavier.
When mated to the standard six-speed manual gearbox, the open-top JCW races to 62mph (100km/h) in 6.6 seconds (0.3 seconds faster than before) and tops out at 150mph (241km/h), while with the optional 6-speed automatic, it does the same in 6.5 seconds (0.6 seconds faster than the older model) and reaches a maximum speed of 149mph (240km/h).
Together with the more potent powertrain, the JCW model gains a dual pipe sports exhaust, re-tuned suspension, 17-inch wheels in 205/45 tires or optionally, 18-inch rims, and a series of cosmetic exterior upgrades such as the model-specific bumpers with enlarged ducts, LED headlamps, spoilers, red brake calipers and wider sills.
It also benefits from interior revisions, including a three-spoke steering wheel, new gear lever, unique trims, and more supportive front sport seats.
The basic versions of the new MINI Convertible will go on sale in the US in March, with prices, excluding an $850 delivery fee, starting at $25,950 for the Cooper, and $29,600 for the Cooper S variant, while the JCW model will reach dealers in April, priced from $35,600 plus destination & handling.
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