Based on the Mini Cooper S, the JCW version is priced at $48,800 for the hardtop, and $51,300 for the stretched Clubman version tested here.
There is no auto transmission. The JCW comes with a toughened version of the six-speed manual with closer ratios.
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According to Mini, this leads to a very handy 6.8 sec 0-100 km/h sprint (down from 7.6). Despite this, official fuel use and carbon dioxide emissions stay unchanged on paper at 7.0 L/100 km and 168 g/km. Our fuel use was 8.7 L/100 km, equivalent to a CO2 average of about 208 g/km.
This engine is a great example of why car makers are extolling the virtues of combining turbochargers and smaller capacity engines.
With peak torque available from 1850-5600 rpm there’s no shortage of mid-range response and flexibility. An exhaust crackle on the overrun adds atmosphere. It doesn’t feel like night and day compared with the Cooper S, just stronger all around.
Sports suspension, bigger brakes with red-painted calipers and the ability to alter steering and throttle response are highlights of the JCW Clubman’s dynamic tune.
The result is a really engaging and enjoyable little car to drive, assisted by a tied-down chassis with short, firm suspension. Because of this, there are obvious limits to the bumps and holes the JCW will absorb.
A leather-bound three-spoke steering wheel, Anthracite roof lining, piano black finish and a 260 km/h speedo are the main (and minimal) changes to the interior.
The huge central speedo, the tacho sitting on the reach-and-rake adjustable steering column, the curves and circles of the plasticky interior and the toggle switches used for power windows are all familiar.
It’s fair to ask whether the $51,300 JCW Clubman is worth the extra money over the standard Cooper S Clubman. For most people, it probably isn’t, as the performance advantages won’t justify the extra cost.
This is the car for the Mini fanatic who is after the ultimate model in the range, or has an appreciation of the brand’s history. Either way, they’ll like it. For most of us though, it’s a niche too far.
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