Back in June, we got wind that Mini was running a prototype from John Cooper Works (JCW) around the Nürburgring Nordschleife. We can now confirm that prototype as the new 2020 Mini JCW GP.
As mentioned in the headline, this sharpened track-weapon will only be available in limited numbers, just 3,000 units, with global deliveries slated for March 2020. This two-seater third-generation JCW GP is more track-focused than ever with its makers claiming it to be almost half a minute faster around the Nordschleife than its direct predecessor.
The new GP is able to perform that feat thanks to the 2.0-litre B48 turbocharged mill with 225kW and 450Nm of torque borrowed from the BMW 1 Series M135i and X2 M235i. However, in this application, the cooling system has been further optimised to handle track use, even the gearbox has a reworked cooling system.
Additionally, a newly developed air intake duct and free-flowing exhaust system helps the GP breathe better. Other changes made to the B48 lump is a model-specific engine oil sump with an “increased volume and a distinctive geometry, ensuring a reliable oil supply at all times” said the brand.
Standing on the loud pedal will see the GP sprint to 100km/h from standstill in 5.2 seconds and eventually top out at 265 km/h. Mated to the four-cylinder engine is a torque-converter 8-speed Steptronic transmission unit complete with a locking mechanical differential. The brand confirms a manual option will not be offered.
Keeping all this performance in check is an array of work done to the GP’s suspension and chassis. The wishbones on the rear axle are replaced by metal joints while the engine mounts are tighter, toughened units developed specifically for the GP.
The intensive testing program at the Nordschleife ensured the GP never lost its characteristic ‘go-kart-like’ handling feel. A GP-unique suspension setup involving specially adapted auxiliary springs, dampers and stabilisers are employed to achieve just that. Furthermore, the GP’s geometry has been tweaked for increased camber levels at both ends; it now sits some 10mm lower than a Mini JCW.
Stopping power is provided a by four-piston calliper squeezing a pair of 360mm discs up front while the rear receives a floating single piston unit on either side. Surrounding the brakes are set of unique four-spoke lightweight 18-inch alloy wheels that’s wrapped with sticky Hankook Ventus S1 Evo Z 225/35 R18 tyres.
Moving on from the performance of the GP, we get to one of the most prominent feature of the exterior. The carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) flared wheel arch trim isn’t just bonkers styling but is there to assist in aerodynamics and cooling. Moreover, the car’s individual numbering is also displayed on it by means of a new paint transfer process.
Elsewhere there’s GP-specific front and rear fascias with accents of Melting Silver and Chili Red paint. Part of the rear double-wing contour spoiler is splashed on with the latter colour. The headlamp surrounds, door handles, fuel filler cap, bonnet inlay and Mini logo are all finished in black, even the Union Jack tail lamps are darkened for that sporty effect.
The interior of the GP isn’t some stripped out barren wasteland with only track times in mind, it has JCW sports seats upholstered in faux and real leather along with silver side edges, red seams and GP badges on the headrests. The driver gets a 5-inch digital instrument display while a 6.5-inch screen in the middle of the dashboard serves up infotainment via the Connected Media system.
The steering wheel is a GP-specific unit that’s wrapped in Nappa leather with 3D-printed metal paddle shifters. Missing from this hot hatch are some of the sound deadening material and rear seats, with a Chili Red-painted aluminium cross-brace filling the space just behind the front seats.
Mini Australia has indicated that most of the units allocated for Down Under are spoken for via pre-orders and will have a sticker price of $63,990.
For more information on the Mini JCW, please visit our Showroom.
