MOST POWERFUL MINIS

British premium manufacturer Mini has launched the most powerful models ever approved for public road-use in the sixty-year history of the brand. Borrowing the latest generation two-litre four-cylinder Twinpower engine from mother brand BMW, the new F60 John Cooper Works Clubman and R60 JCW Countryman now has 225 kw on tap – surpasses the output of the previous powerplant by as much as 55 kw. Maximum torque has increased by 100 Nm to 450 Nm, and in both models the powerful new engine is combined as standard with a new eight-speed Steptronic sports transmission, including a mechanical diff-lock on the front axle and an ALL4 allwheel-drive system. With their newfound urge, performance for both the six-door model and the robust allrounder has risen commensurately; the JCW Clubman accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 s, and the Countryman achieving the same in 5.1 s – 1.4 and 1.5 s faster than in the respective previous models – while top speed (for the first time in a Mini) is limited to 250 km/h. The two top sports models also have new cooling systems and an exhaust system with remarkable sound, an extremely rigid body structure, model-specific chassis design (including an adaptive chassis for the Clubman, which enables it to be lowered by 10 mm) and a redesigned sport brake system.

With its long wheelbase, wide track, and low centre of gravity, the Clubman handled the twisty roads of Mpumalanga unbelievably well, while the taller Countryman displayed minimal body roll. Yet, the harsh ride of both models (even in comfort mode) was disappointing, given their obvious performance potential, individualistic exterior designs, and exclusive standard equipment. This includes LED headlamps, keyless ride, and a redesigned graphical display with integrated Connected Media equipment. The new JCW Clubman is available from R642 000 and the JCW Countryman start from R708 000.