MINI JCW Convertible highlights
- Rain threat alert when roof open
- 231hp and 320Nm of torque
- 6.5 second 0-62mph acceleration and 150mph top speed
- Specific suspension settings and bespoke Brembo brakes fitted as part of the specification
- Available from April priced from £26,630
WE only revealed the next new model to join the MINI range, the Convertible, just in time for hoped-for summer sun – in October!
But MINI certainly don’t let the grass grow under their feet as two months before the UK launch of the standard Convertible, they’ve released details of this JCW range-topping tarmac terrorist!
Powered by the same 2-litre TwinPower Turbo engine as found in the MINI John Cooper Works Hatch, and complete with the same giant-killing 231hp and 320nm of torque.
The extra weight of losing the roof does however have an effect on the JCW’s performance, but when fitted with the Steptronic auto, the JCW can still accelerate to 62mph in just 6.5 seconds and go on to a top speed of 150mph. Choose the six speed manual and it takes 6.6 seconds to get to 62mph, with a top speed of 149mph.
To make the most of all this power, the suspension, braking and cooling specification of the MINI Convertible have been suitably upgraded.
In fact, MINI has given the JCW convertible specific suspension settings, with a bespoke braking system and larger intakes to increase cooling capability. Outside, that JCW bodykit isn’t for show either, it helps the aerodynamics.
Inside like the hatch, the convertible has the same John Cooper Works sports seats and sporty trim touches. The JCW can be further personalised with a wide range of optional extras, including MINI Media Pack XL featuring MINI Connected.
A new feature incorporated into the optional MINI Connected XL, developed especially for the MINI Convertible, is the ‘rain warner’ function. If you park your MINI with the roof open and the forecast is bad, the driver is sent a message via their smartphone suggesting that it might be time to put the roof up. Plus, if the MINI Convertible is being driven towards forecast rain, the driver will be alerted on the centre console.
Finally, if the car is travelling over 30 mph, MINI Connected XL will even suggest possible places to pull over and close the roof!
The MINI JCW Convertible will be available April 2016 priced from £26,630.
