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 and 450 Nm of torque. This is an increase of 74 hp and 100 Nm.
Thanks to the significant power boost, the John
Cooper Works Clubman can run from 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds – an
improvement of 1.4 seconds. The top speed also climbs to an electronically
limited 250 km/h. Likewise, the John Cooper Works Countryman can hit the 100
km/h mark in 5.1 seconds and top out at 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.
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.
