Geneva debut for Mini John Cooper Works Convertible - Auto Trader UK - News and Reviews Hub


Auto Trader

Geneva debut for Mini John Cooper Works Convertible

Geneva debut for Mini John Cooper Works Convertible  - News image

11 February 2009

by Adrian Hearn

 

The Mini John Cooper Works Convertible will make its debut at next month’s Geneva Motor Show.

Using a 211bhp twin-turbocharged 1.6-litre engine, the convertible JCW will be capable of hitting 62mph in 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 146mph.

On top of this hot hatch performance is impressive frugality with the convertible JCW capable of averaging a claimed 39.8mpg.

The Oxford-built car gets a special ‘Sport’ button located in front of the gearstick which, when pressed,  activates a bespoke engine control map producing boost earlier in the rev range and sharpening steering and throttle response.

The Mini John Cooper Works Convertible also gets an Electronic Differential Lock Control to improve the car’s cornering capabilities.

When travelling through bends, the EDLC slows the spinning inside wheel to enhance grip and ensure all available power is transferred to the road through the wheel with greatest traction.

When it goes on sale, the JCW will sit above the Mini Cooper S Convertible.

Auto Trader recently drove the Cooper S Convertible and we found it to be smooth and responsive with sharp steering and tenacious grip.

The Mini John Cooper Works Convertible goes on sale at the end of March with a price-tag of £23,470.

Mini will also be debuting its entry-level Mini One Clubman at Geneva.

We'll be reporting live from the show so don't forget to come back for all the big news as it happens.