The Mini Clubman And Countryman JCW Each Now Pack A 302bhp Punch

Mini - The Mini Clubman And Countryman JCW Each Now Pack A 302bhp Punch - News

The range-topping John Cooper Works versions of the Mini Clubman estate and Countryman SUV have been a bit of a tough sell for anyone crazing driving excitement. Both have, up until recently, used the same 231bhp version of the inline-four turbo as in the hatchback, but made to work against more weight and a four-wheel drive system.

Now, though, each has been afforded a boost in power. A big one, in fact: the new output is 302bhp, while torque has leapt by 74lb ft to 332lb ft. That’s a little more like it.

Mini - The Mini Clubman And Countryman JCW Each Now Pack A 302bhp Punch - News

With the added poke, the Clubman now handles the 0-62mph dash in 4.9 seconds, representing a drop of 1.4 seconds. The Countryman, meanwhile, takes 5.1 seconds to do the same, which is 1.5 seconds brisker than before. This also makes it a tenth faster to 62mph than the Cupra Ateca we’re currently running as a long-term test car.

To go with the extra power, there’s also a new exhaust system compliant with the latest noise and emissions regulations, an eight-speed automatic gearbox with an integrated mechanical limited-slip differential to help distribute power at the front axle, and a redesigned cooling system.

Mini - The Mini Clubman And Countryman JCW Each Now Pack A 302bhp Punch - News

The brakes are beefier, too. There are 360mm discs up front and 330mm rotors at the back, the latter parts now paired with meaty four-piston calipers. All four calipers are livened up thanks to a lovely splash of red paint, with the fronts also featuring JCW logos. Good for at least an additional 5bhp, we’d say.

Mini - The Mini Clubman And Countryman JCW Each Now Pack A 302bhp Punch - News

The pair will go on sale this June. The Clubman JCW will be £34,250, while the Countryman is going to set you back £35,550. There’ll be myriad options available, so expect it to be rather easy to push those figures well beyond the £40,000 mark.

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