The MINI JCW (John Cooper Works) is in for
another refresh, which should be the last one before the British company pulls
the plug on the current generation and replaces it with an entirely new model.
Why haven’t they already done so,
considering that the third generation subcompact model has been around since
2013? It’s most likely due to Brexit concerns and possible coronavirus
complications, which has forced them to delay the presentation of an all-new
model.
As far as the 2021 JCW is concerned, it
will follow the updates of the regular hatchback, although with the typical
sporty body kit that comprises of the bigger front and rear bumpers, more
aggressive diffuser with cutouts for the central exhaust pipes and a few other
touches. At a first glance, the headlamps and taillights will carryover, but
this is still an early prototype, so that could change.
The dashboard panel appears to have the
same shape and drivers will be looking through the steering wheel at a digital
instrument cluster, located next to the infotainment system. Expect sportier
seats and exclusive upholstery options compared to the regular hatch, as well
as JCW badges.
The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder
engine will soldier on, likely mated to the standard six-speed or optional
eight-speed automatic transmission. In the current variant, it makes 228 HP and 320 Nm of torque, enabling a 0-96
km/h acceleration of around 6 seconds. It’s unknown yet whether the power unit
will be updated in any form, be it through giving it a bigger punch, reducing
the emissions, or perhaps both.
