Mini tees up John Cooper Works GP
THE CURRENT MINI looks destined to be turned into an extreme hot hatch following the appearance of a new John Cooper Works GP Concept.
The first and second generations of the Bmw-owned Mini both offered a JCW Works GP variant near the end of the mainstream models’ lifecycle, in 2006 and 2012 respectively. The same pattern is expected to be followed with this thirdgeneration car.
The next Mini hatchback is due 2021, so this fast version is expected to appear in production form in 2019.
However, Mini said it could “not confirm whether a seriesproduction model of the GP will be launched in the future. This concept is a design study.”
Mini said the concept is inspired by its triumphs at the Monte Carlo Rally 50 years ago, “embodying dynamic flair and the ultimate in driving fun”.
The concept features extreme styling that is unlikely to be carried over in its entirety to a production model. There are large front and rear aprons, side skirts and a prominent roof spoiler. It also uses lightweight materials, including carbonfibre, which, Mini said, optimises the power-to-weight ratio. However, no figures have been released.
The concept runs on 19in alloy wheels and each of the LED rear lights displays half of the Union flag as a nod to the car’s British origins.
Inside, the concept has a rollcage and pair of lowmounted bucket seats. Gearshifts are by paddles located on the steering wheel.