2020 JCW Clubman And Countryman Become Most Powerful MINIs Ever With 302 HP

In one fell swoop, MINI has unveiled the 2020 John Cooper Works Clubman and Countryman.

While the models feature a host of updates, the biggest change occurs under the hood.  There resides a “comprehensively redesigned” turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 302 hp (225 kW / 306 PS) and 332 lb-ft (450 Nm) of torque. This is an increase of 74 hp (55 kW / 75 PS) and 74 lb-ft (100 Nm).

Thanks to the significant power boost, the John Cooper Works Clubman can run from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.9 seconds – an improvement of 1.4 seconds. The top speed also climbs to an electronically limited 155 mph (250 km/h).

Likewise, the John Cooper Works Countryman can hit the 62 mph (100 km/h) mark in 5.1 seconds and top out at 155 mph (250 km/h).

The engine is connected to a new eight-speed Steptronic sports transmission which promises improved gear shifts and acoustic comfort. The gearbox also has an integrated mechanical differential lock which “functions transversely to reduce the speed compensation between the front wheels.” As the company explained, “The locking effect has the result of transferring the drive torque to the other wheel should one front wheel start to spin.”

Speaking of traction, both models come with a reinforced all-wheel drive system. It normally sends power to the front wheels, but it can distribute drive torque to the rear wheels, within a fraction of a second, if a potential slip is detected.

Also Read: MINI Updates The 2020 Clubman With A Series Of Small Changes

Other updates include a revised suspension, a new sports exhaust system and a beefier braking system. The latter now has four-piston fixed rear calipers which grab onto 13-inch (330 mm) discs.

Styling changes are relatively limited, but the JCW Clubman has a revised grille, new lighting units and a modified rear bumper to accommodate the larger exhaust system.