Page 20 - The Villager September 2021

Motoring

mini JoHn Cooper worKS

all4 Clubman

BY ALAN ROSeNMeYeR

n the 1960s, the original Mini crew transmission handles the power in all cases. expect consumption figures to soar, but
teamed up with John Cooper to The JCW models add extras like a body this is not the version to buy if you are shy
Iachieve fame and success in the kit for super aggression, larger 19-inch about visiting your local fuel pumps.
Monte Carlo Rally and other rallies of wheels with bold red JCW brake calipers Although the Clubman is officially
the time, as well as many motor races. and numerous samples of the sought after defined as a station wagon (remember
In modern times, John Cooper Works JCW badge. In the interior, the cars are those?) and has unusual twin side-
is now a part of Mini and the hallowed packed with options that would be too opening rear doors, the space provided
JCW badge is reserved for the top long to list here but very little is lacking in is anything but large. Boot space
performance variants in the range. respect of both comfort and safety. measures about 200l, or 900l if you
Currently, you can get JCW in two- It's on the road where the almost drop the rear seats, less than most small
door hatch, Clubman and Countryman excessive amount of power creates hatchbacks today. However, if this is of
flavours. Interestingly, the two larger the fun factor. Engage SPORT mode by concern to you then you've missed the
cars get ALL4 all-wheel drive, while the clicking the typical Mini piano key switch point of why this car, or any Mini model,
little hatch has to harness all the extra and prepare to hold on tight. The steering exists in today's market.
power through the front wheels alone. tightens to give even quicker responses The Mini, in any of the body styles, is a
JCW starts by taking the 2l 4-cylinder than the already renowned handling of all fashion statement. The JCW version is a
turbo engine and increasing the power Mini's. BUT . . . it's the Pops and Bangs that driver’s statement as well - massive power
from the 141kW and 280Nm of the accompany every up and down shift that for the body size, great handling and a
Cooper S models up to 225kW and put the biggest smile on my face. This car dollop of the indefinable fun factor.
450Nm, delivered to the tarmac through is a true Boy Racer in the best tradition. No version of the Mini is cheap and
all four wheels. In sympathy with the Our fuel consumption for the test the test version carries a base list price
front wheel drive only drivetrain in period was 7.3l/100km. This was of R783 840. You also know that this can
the hatch, the power ONLY goes up to achieved with mostly freeway cruising increase depending on how deep you
170kW and 320Nm. The ultra-smooth and and only a bit of time engaging Sport dip into the options. A 5-year/100 000km
efficient BMW-sourced 8-speed automatic mode. If you use this mode more often, maintenance plan is included.

Here’s the link to our video review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=khEvcEn0ONA

18 • Issue 9 2021 • The Villager