Power is way up, but the manual transmission is way gone.
Mini has teased us for a while with hopped-up JCW prototypes for the Clubman and Countryman testing in public. The wait is now over, as Mini dropped the curtain on its latest John Cooper Works variants for both models. Fans of speed and power will have much to cheer about, but the save the manuals crowd will have another death to mourn.
The big question is, naturally, how much power is under the hood? As expected, both the JCW Countryman and JCW Clubman get an amped up 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo mill as seen in select BMW models, generating 301 horsepower (224 kilowatts) and 331 pound-feet (449 Newton-meters) of torque. That’s a substantial jump from the current JCW twins, but perhaps more substantial is the standard-issue eight-speed Steptronic automatic, which now serves as the only gearbox available.
Yes the manual is gone, but with the extra power on tap going to all four wheels, Mini estimates the JCW Clubman can nip to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.9 seconds with the slightly bulkier Countryman covering the spread in 5.1 seconds. That’s not slow by any means, and Mini is quick to mention the paddle shift manual mode for those desiring direct control of the cogs. By comparison, both models are well over a second quicker than the outgoing versions, and top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph.
The new JCW-trimmed models offer more than just a snarling engine. Mini says both the Clubman and Countryman get a re-engineered chassis with added reinforcement throughout. The result is increased rigidity all around with better camber for the front wheels. A trick differential at the front axle further assists cornering, and when it comes time to stop there are bigger four-piston calipers at the back with 14.1-inch rotors up front. Mini also says the new JCW twins were extensively track-tested, and as such, the engine and transmission have upgraded cooling systems designed to keep temperatures from going critical.
Aesthetics wise, JCW models get special 18-inch wheels as standard with 19-inchers optional. Also optional is a two-tone contrast paint scheme for the roof and mirrors, but all models get the requisite JCW badging and honeycomb treatment with red trim for the grille. New standard-issue LED lights shine the way front and rear, with the taillights also getting the cool Union Jack treatment. Inside you’ll find a bevy of standard kit including the 6.5-inch touchscreen display and Mini’s Integrated Connected Media equipment. Sport seats, a sport steering wheel, a special selector lever, and an anthracite headliner are also part of the JCW treatment.
Pricing and availability for the new 2020 JCW Clubman and 2020 JCW Countryman will be revealed at a later date.
Source: Mini
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THE NEW MINI JOHN COOPER WORKS CLUBMAN & COUNTRYMAN.
THE NEW MINI JOHN COOPER WORKS CLUBMAN AND THE NEW MINI JOHN COOPER WORKS COUNTRYMAN OFFER GREATER POWER, PERFORMANCE AND FUN.
Munich, Germany, May 15, 2019… With its new John Cooper Works Clubman and John Cooper Works Countryman, MINI introduces what is by some measure the most powerful models ever approved for public road use in the brand’s sixty-year history. The 301 hp. 4-cylinder turbo engine in the new MINI John Cooper Works Clubman and the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman both display outstanding performance in the compact premium segment. In both models, the extraordinarily powerful engine is combined as standard with a new 8-speed Steptronic sports transmission, including mechanical differential lock on the front axle, an ALL4 all-wheel drive system, a specifically engineered chassis, and additional reinforcement modifications for the body structure, engine connection and chassis fastenings. This enables the John Cooper Works racing sensation to attain a completely new dimension of performance. In these brand-new versions of the two top sports models, both the individual six-door model with its extreme driving fun and the robust all-rounder provide a challenging performance experience. The latest generation of the 4-cylinder engine developed for the John Cooper Works models with MINI TwinPower Turbo technology surpasses that of the previous drive by as much as 73 hp. at maximum output. Maximum torque has increased from 258 ft-lb to 331 ft-lb and acceleration performance has also risen commensurately. The new MINI John Cooper Works Clubman turns in an acceleration of 0 to 62 mph in 4.9 seconds, with the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman achieving the same in 5.1 seconds – 1.4 and 1.5 seconds faster than in the respective previous models. The elasticity of the two models has never been as impressive as it is now.
With the concentrated power of their new engine and its optimized ability to transfer
its output onto either a road surface or loose terrain, the new MINI John Cooper Works
Clubman and the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman have assured their places
in the leading line-up of sport models in the compact segment. And within the MINI
model range, these two top athletes have never been more deserving of their top
positions. Compared to the MINI Cooper S Clubman and MINI Cooper S Countryman,
output has risen from its previous level of 38 hp. to 112 hp. The resulting superior
performance characteristics are accompanied by a range of model-specific design and
equipment features that successfully underline the exclusive and rarefied nature of
these two John Cooper Works models.
Summary of highlights: The new MINI John Cooper Works Clubman and the
new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman.
New 4-cylinder engine with MINI TwinPower Turbo technology and 301 hp.
with 331 ft.-lbs. of torque.
Increase in output compared to the previous models: 73 hp.
Cooling concept incorporates know-how from the race track.
New exhaust system with remarkable sound development and Petrol particulate
filter compliant with the Euro 6d-TEMP standard.
MINI ALL4 all-wheel drive as standard.
New 8-speed Steptronic sports transmission with integrated mechanical
differential lock for the front wheel.
Model-specific chassis design and coordination.
New bigger John Cooper Works sport brake system.
Extremely rigid body structure, motor connection and chassis fastenings.
New LED headlights, and LED rear lights in Union Jack design in the new MINI
John Cooper Works Clubman.
Maximum output from four cylinders: New 2.0 liter engine with
MINI TwinPower Turbo technology.
As the power source for extreme driving fun, the comprehensively redesigned 4-
cylinder engine has been consistently oriented towards maximum output. It is based on
the 2.0 liter drive from the MINI Cooper S Clubman and MINI Cooper S Countryman but
has now undergone model-specific modifications to the crankshaft drive and also
benefits from the latest generation of MINI TwinPower Turbo technology. These
modifications are based on the John Cooper Works’ racing know-how and comprise a
reinforced crankshaft, a main bearing with an extended cross-section, specific pistons,
connecting rods, and a new vibration damper with optimized cooling.
The considerably increased output compared to the previous engine is also helped along
by the bigger turbocharger. The compression ratio of the new engine has been reduced
from 10.2 to 9.5 to match the increased system charging pressure. In addition, the
turbocharger integrated in the exhaust manifold is fitted with a blow-off valve that
contributes to its optimized response characteristics. The air intake duct has also been
redeveloped and de-throttled as far as possible. The spontaneous power delivery in the
engine is also supported by the latest generation of direct petrol injection. Its new
multi-hole fuel injectors arranged between the valves enable an increased flow rate,
transporting the fuel to the combustion chambers under an injection pressure of up to
350 ba. The fine vaporization enables precise metering of the fuel, which makes for
especially clean combustion in addition to enabling optimum efficiency. The MINI
TwinPower Turbo technology also includes fully variable valve control along the lines of
the VALVETRONIC system patented by the BMW Group, as well as variable camshaft
control on the intake and exhaust sides (double VANOS).
Independent cooling concept, specific sport gas system.
Spontaneous response to even the slightest movement of the accelerator pedal with a
power delivery that is sustained up to the high load ranges are what characterize the
incredible, sports-car-typical performance characteristics of the new powertrain.
Similarly, a newly developed cooling system has been developed to satisfy the resulting
demands placed on the job of temperature management. An optimum running
temperature for the engine is guaranteed at all times – even under extreme conditions
on the race track – by two external radiators, a model-specific expansion tank with an
increased volume, an independent cooling module mounting, an electric ventilator with
increased output, and a third cooling level realized using a condenser. To optimize
warm up, the cooling of the crankcase can be temporarily deactivated by a new split
cooling valve. In addition, the transmission has its own coolant circuit and external
transmission oil cooler.
The high-performance drive of the new MINI John Cooper Works Clubman and the new
MINI John Cooper Works Countryman generates a maximum torque of 331 ft-lb. in the
broad engine speed range between 1,750 and 4,500 rpm, which is around 28 percent
higher than that of the previous engine. The maximum output of the new 4-cylinder
engine has been increased by approximately 32 percent. The new top level of 301 hp. is
reached between 5,000 and 6,250 rpm. The resulting pulling power enables the new
engine of the MINI John Cooper Works Clubman to produce an acceleration
performance of 0 to 62 mph in 4.9 seconds, while the figure for the new MINI John
Cooper Works Countryman is 5.1 seconds, ensuring an impressive level of elasticity
during spontaneous speed bursts. For the first time with MINI vehicles, the maximum
speed of the new top sports performer is now electronically limited to 155 mph.
Speed burst maneuvers are accompanied by the striking sound of the newly developed,
model-specific sport exhaust system. The extreme output of the engine makes itself
more intensively felt than ever before, with an emotionally charged acoustic design that
matches the load requirements while underlining its performance character. When
driving at a relaxed pace with optimized consumption and low engine speeds, the sound
produced is more reserved and sonorous. The twin exhaust system leads into a new,
particularly large-volume rear silencer. With its low level of exhaust back pressure, this
benefits the engine’s spontaneous power delivery. The external diameter of the tailpipe
trims integrated in the right and left of the rear apron is 95 millimeters for the new
MINI John Cooper Works Clubman and 85 millimeters in the new MINI John Cooper
Works Countryman. To optimize emissions, the sports exhaust system is fitted with a
petrol particulate filter. Emission control in both of the new John Cooper Works models
is in line with the Euro 6d-TEMP standard.
8-speed Steptronic sports transmission, mechanical differential lock.
The transverse-mounted front engine in both of these extreme sport vehicles transmits
its phenomenal power to the 8-speed Steptronic sports transmission – another new
development. The latest generation of the transmission displays enhanced internal
efficiency and an extended steering axis inclination. This means lower engine speeds
when driving in a higher gear, which translates to lower fuel consumption. A new
transmission control increases both the gear shift dynamics and driving comfort. Gear
shifting and acoustic comfort have also been further optimized. The converter lockup
clutch closes immediately after driving off, creating a direct connection to the engine,
accompanied by a spontaneous driving experience. Shift paddles are mounted as
standard on the steering wheel for manual gear selection. Moreover, the 8-speed
Steptronic sports transmission offers a launch function for accelerating from standing
with optimum traction and maximum dynamics.
The new automatic transmission also features an integrated differential lock It
functions transversely to reduce the speed compensation between the front wheels.
Under load conditions, this means that a locking effect of up to 39 percent can be
generated. The mechanical differential lock is interconnected with the DSC (Dynamic
Stability Control), which aids both the traction of the new MINI John Cooper Works
Clubman and the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman on loose terrain or in poor
weather conditions, as well as the driving dynamics when taking bends with a sporty
driving style. The locking effect has the result of transferring the drive torque to the
other wheel should one front wheel start to spin. This prevents a loss of traction while
maintaining propulsion – even with differing frictional values between the left and right
wheels. Similarly, the differential lock supports the vehicle’s agility when changing
direction quickly or accelerating dynamically out of a bend, by applying targeted
shifting of the drive torque.
ALL4 all-wheel drive with model-specific components.
The ALL4 all-wheel drive system plays a central role in optimizing the cars’ traction,
agility and driving stability; it is part of the standard equipment of the new MINI John
Cooper Works Clubman and the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman and was
comprehensively redeveloped for the new edition of both models. The compact and
weight-optimized all-wheel drive consists of a power take-off on the front axle
transmission, a two-section propeller shaft, and rear axle transmission with an electrohydraulically
regulated hang-on clutch. The intelligent controller of the ALL4 system is
interconnected with the DSC Dynamic Stability Control and constantly calculates the
ideal power distribution ratio between the front and rear wheels. This means that the
outstanding engine power is always channeled to the place where it can be most
effectively and efficiently translated into driving fun.
In normal driving conditions with the DSC activated, it transmits the drive torque in the
brand-typical manner to the front wheels. This allows the engine power to be converted
into forward propulsion with maximum efficiency. But if the DSC controller detects a
danger of slip on the front wheels, within a fraction of a second, the hang-on clutch will
transfer the drive torque to the rear wheels with the aid of an electrohydraulic pump.
The most recent development in the ALL4 system was precisely coordinated with the
extremely high engine output and enhanced drive dynamic potential of the new MINI
John Cooper Works Clubman and the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman. It
consists of a reinforced gear set for the power take-off, a larger flexible disc for the
propeller shaft leading to the rear wheels, and specific rear drive shafts with greater
torsional rigidity.
The new, model-specific drive unit mountings are also of benefit to the increased
precision in dynamic driving situations. The increased spring rate of the engine and
transmission bearings results in a tauter connection between the drive units and the
vehicle structure. This creates an effective acoustic barrier and optimizes the reaction
moment in particularly sporty maneuvers. The new mounting also has a positive effect
on both direct steering in bends and the response characteristics of the engine.
Evolved sport chassis, new sport brake system
At the same time as the engine was undergoing further development, the chassis
technology of the new MINI John Cooper Works Clubman and the new MINI John
Cooper Works Countryman was being enhanced to a new level of performance. The
model-specific versions of the single-joint spring-strut-type axle for the front wheel and
the multi-joint rear axle were optimized in terms of their component rigidity,
kinematics and weight, to create a thrilling racing sensation from the amazingly high
drive output. Newly designed swivel bearings enable improved camber values on the
front wheels. Also, thanks to the specific rear-axle kinematics, this meant that it was
possible to improve the potential for transmitting lateral guide forces in dynamic bends.
Moreover, the readjusted suspension and damping systems, the DSC Dynamic Stability
Control and the electromechanical steering are precisely oriented towards the
extremely agile character of the new top sports model. Optionally for both models, there
is also an adaptive chassis with electronically controlled dampers. Judder dampers
operate in line with a choice of two characteristic diagrams, coordinated for either
sporty or more comfort-oriented driving scenarios; these can be activated in the MINI
Driving Modes.
In the new MINI John Cooper Works Clubman, both the standard sport chassis and the
adaptive chassis, which enables the vehicle to be lowered by 10 millimeters in
comparison with other vehicle types, are associated with a standard chassis. Also, part
of the standard equipment are the 18 inch John Cooper Works light metal wheels in
Black Grip Spoke design. However, John Cooper Works light metal wheels in 18 inch
and 19-inch sizes are also optionally available.
The sport brake system has also been redesigned and now contains 4-piston, fixedcaliper
disc brakes on the rear wheels to ensure constantly high braking values even
under intensive use. The large brake discs of 360 × 30 millimeters at the front and 330
× 20 millimeters at the rear combined with optimized coolant duct geometry also play
their part in achieving the high level of stability. The red-coated brake calipers at the
front bear the John Cooper Works logo.
Body structure and chassis fastening with optimized rigidity.
The long wheelbase, large track width and low center of gravity that both models
display is ideal for a chassis design and tuning aimed at consistent sports performance.
In addition, the systematic reinforcement of the body structure and extremely taut
chassis connections in the new MINI John Cooper Works Clubman and the new MINI
John Cooper Works Countryman ensure maximum driving precision. Both models
possess a newly developed precision strut for the engine compartment, which connects
the right and left spring strut domes. The bracing of the front end is provided by
specific arrow struts and a dome-bulkhead strut in the undercarriage.
The overall package put together by the John Cooper Works with its sheer dynamics,
agility and precision, is completed by model-specific design features in the exterior,
which serve to optimize the vehicles’ aerodynamic features and air duct design. The
large air inlets on the front of the vehicle are designed to serve the cooling
requirements of both the drive and the brake system. In addition, the outstanding
performance characteristics are reflected in the model-specific design of the side skirts
and the independent rear aprons with integrated diffuser elements. Model-specific roof
spoilers play a role in reducing uplift at high travel speeds. In addition, the two new
John Cooper Works models are equipped with aerodynamically optimized mirror caps.
Exclusive standard equipment, high-class options.
Other model-specific accentuations in the exterior include the optional contrast
paintwork in red for the roof and the mirror caps, an individual design for the side
scuttles by the additional indicators, and the John Cooper Works logo in the radiator
grille and tailgate. The central air inlet of both models has a honeycomb pattern
structure. The inlet of the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman also has a red
surround. A red cross-member subdivides the newly designed radiator grille of the new
MINI John Cooper Works Clubman. Its headlamps, rear lights and rear apron also
display the new design of the latest model revision for the MINI Clubman.
The racing sensation has been elevated to new dimensions, which can be enjoyed on all
five full-feature seats of the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman. The
characteristic interior sports car flair of both cars are partly down to the John Cooper
Works sports seats with integrated head rests, the John Cooper Works sport steering
wheel with multifunction buttons, the John Cooper Works selector lever, and the
anthracite headliner.
The exclusive standard equipment of both top sports models in the MINI range also
includes LED headlamps, keyless ride, MINI Driving Modes, and the Radio MINI Visual
Boost including 6.5-inch display with touchscreen function and a redesigned graphical
display. The integrated Connected Media equipment is able to access numerous MINI
Connected online services. Alternatively, there is also a choice of special equipment
options, including Connected Navigation, with its easy-to-use routing function and
additional infotainment options, as well as Connected Navigation Plus with an 8.8-inch
touch display. In conjunction with these options, the Real Time Traffic Information
service is also available, providing real-time data on the current traffic situation, a
personal Concierge service and the MINI Online Internet portal, and it is also Apple
CarPlay-ready. In addition, navigation map updates are automatically downloaded to the
vehicle via the mobile network connection.
Based on EU calculations the new MINI John Cooper Works Clubman achieves a fuel
consumption combined of 7.4 – 7.1 l/100 km and CO2 emissions combined of 169 – 161
g/km. The new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman achieves a fuel consumption
combined of 7.3 – 6.9 l/100 km and CO2 emissions combined of 166 –156 g/km).
These figures for fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and power consumption are
calculated based on the measurement methods stipulated in the current version of
Regulation (EU) 2007/715. The information is based on a vehicle with basic equipment
in Germany; ranges take into account differences in wheel and tire size selected as well
as optional equipment and can change during configuration. Note: US EPA figures are
not yet available at the time of publishing.
The information has already been calculated based on the new WLTP test cycle and
adapted to NEDC for comparison purposes. In these vehicles, different figures than
those published here may apply for the assessment of taxes and other vehicle-related
duties which are (also) based on CO2 emissions.
For further details of the official fuel consumption figures and official specific CO2
emissions of new cars, please refer to the “Manual on fuel consumption, CO2 emissions
and power consumption of new cars”, available at sales outlets, from Deutsche
Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-
Scharnhausen and at http://www.dat.de/angebote/verlagsprodukte/leitfadenkraftstoffverbrauch.
html.
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