Introducing: nippy Minis with the "John Cooper Works" label

The "John Cooper Works" label has been around at Mini for some time. It is used to identify models that are intended to appear particularly sporty. In the regular versions of the three-door and Aceman, the most expensive equipment lines are labeled with it, which is now sold as "Trim". Now "John Cooper Works" variants are following for the small car and the Mini SUV, in which more than just the look has been sharpened up.

More power

A key component is an electric motor which, at 190, delivers 30 kW more than the previous top-of-the-range versions. The three-door and Aceman are only limited to 200 km/h, which sets them apart from the 160 kW models, which are only allowed to accelerate up to 170 km/h. This is not a technical decision, but a political one, because the acceleration of the variants is not worlds apart. Somehow, however, a demarcation has to be created in order to position the "John Cooper Works" models correctly.

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Mini John Cooper Works (15 Bilder)

This is also to be achieved through small interventions in the design. These include aerodynamically optimized wheel rims in a design that only these models get. The rear spoiler has also been slightly modified. Inside, sports seats and ambient lighting for the headliner are intended to set the top model apart. The storage equipment remains unchanged. The battery has a net capacity of 49.2 kWh, which should be sufficient for up to 371 km in the three-door model under WLTP conditions and for a maximum of 355 km in the Aceman. Up to 11 kW can be charged with alternating current, with a peak of 95 kW with direct current. In this respect, Mini does not achieve top values in this segment either.

Astonishing prices – at first glance

In the first press release, the new models are listed at 39,700 euros (three-door) and 42,200 euros (Aceman). A comparison of these prices with those of the 160 kW versions in the John Cooper Works trim in the configurator reveals a downright ridiculous premium for the versions with 190 kW. The solution to the puzzle is probably in the detail. Currently, the equipment line is only available together with the "M  package", the two models now presented are also available without it. Adjusted for equipment, the additional price is therefore around 4000 euros. Of course, there is another way of looking at it: The customer has the choice of having an even better equipped model with 160 kW or, for almost the same price, one with 190 kW. Mini will take a relaxed view of this. After all, the most important thing for those responsible is that the customer signs up with Mini – and not with the competition.

(mfz)