After the Mini Countryman got its mid-generational refresh this spring, its performance-oriented sibling – the Countryman John Cooper Works – gets one now. The tech stays stock, while the exterior and cabin benefit from minor updates.
On the outside, the radiator grille and LED headlamps have been slightly retouched, and the LED-based anti-fog lamps are now part of the standard spec. Adaptive LED Matrix high beams with turn-aware lighting are available at a premium. The brake lights mimic the lines on the British national flag, and the exhaust pipes grow in size from 85 to 95 mm (3.32 – 3.71 inches, respectively).
The car ships in two new metallic tones – Sage Green and White Silver – and packs the Piano Black Exterior package in its standard feature list, which adds glossy black radiator and headlight bezels, door handles and tailgate badges.
Inside, the five-inch digital dash screen is new, and the audio system now supports Bluetooth streaming and USB-powered loudspeaker mode.
The Countryman JCW comes bundled with MINI TeleServices, an integrated SIM card and the Navigation package, including Radio MINI Visual Boost. Drivers can access MINI Online for real-time traffic data and other handy features from the MINI Connected service. The one paid option available here is called Navigation Plus: it expands the multimedia functionality, adds a second USB slot and enables wireless charging.
From the technical point of view, the car still comes powered by its usual engine worth 306 PS (225 kW) and 450 Nm (332 pound-feet) of torque. Its eight-speed Steptronic Sport auto gearbox and ALL4 four-wheel drive system enable it to make 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.1 seconds.
You can tell the JCW spec from the regular Countryman by its performance brakes boasting Chili Red calipers, 18-inch JCW-branded wheels, as well as tweaked steering, suspension and DSC roll stabilization. Adaptive suspension is another paid feature.
Sales in Great Britain are expected to start in November 2020, followed by other countries later on.