Hottest ever MINI debuts at MINIUnited

As predicted at CarPoint last week, MINI used its biggest gathering yet to launch it's hottest MINI yet! Unveiled at MINIUnited at Misano in Italy last weekend, the MINI Cooper S John Cooper Works GP delivers more power and less weight than the already lively standard JCW.

The special edition will be limited to just 2000 units and MINI claims its performance will "clearly surpass that of the most powerful ex-works MINI to date".

The company is claiming an output of 160kW for the JCW GP with weight reduced by approx 40kg.

Engine mods include an intercooler upgrade and some engine management tweaking. Torque is 245Nm and the standard spec of the car includes a limited slip differential. A measure of the seriousness of the spec change is that in Europe at least, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) is available only as an option.

JCW high performance brakes and sports suspension are standard. New lighter headlamps are fitted along with lighter bespoke 18-inch alloys.

The JCW GP features a body kit with front and rear dams, rear wing and underbody panels. Weight reduction exercises include special panels, removal of some sound deadening material and aircon (optionally available at no extra charge) and the dumping of the rear seats.

The rear suspension includes new alloy control arms

An exclusive colour is offered with Grey-blue metallic body colour and Pure Silver roof. The air scoops on the bonnet and in the front apron are also Pure Silver. Exterior mirrors feature a contrasting colour: fiery Chilli Red.

Inside standard equipment includes Recaro sports seats.

The MINI Cooper S John Cooper Works GP is expected to be available in Europe from July 2006 with the pricetag in Germany around 30,000 Euros. A MINI Australia spokesman told CarPoint that while there were no confirmed plans to import the JCW GP, it was examining the viability of offering a limited number to enthusiasts Down Under.

We'll take two!