John Cooper Works Hardtop

Make
Mini
Segment
Hatchback

Following in the recent footsteps of other small cars like the Chevrolet Spark RS, British automaker MINI has made the leap into the world of carbon fiber with the new MINI Cooper S Hardtop 4-Door Carbon Edition, priced at $37,100. That's if you opt for the standard manual transmission; The auto will put you out another $1,500. As its name implies, the car gets carbon fiber air intake trim, mirror caps, and exhaust tips. The paintjob on this model is "Midnight Black" metallic paint, and it features a red pinstripe.

This Carbon Edition Mini puts down 208 horsepower instead of the usual 189 hp. That's not the craziest power increase on a MINI we've seen, but the limited-run model benefits from a John Cooper Works Pro Tuning Kit and a more muscular-sounding exhaust system. If you'll take the British car manufacturer's word for it, the refined exhaust system delivers "crackling sound" and "devilish backfire pops." Tall promises from a company like MINI, so it will be interesting to see if it can pull it off. MINI fans will be happy to learn that there are also additional manufacturer options to set your car apart from the pack.For example, there's something called the "JCW Exterior Package" which gives buyers a unique body kit.

With the package, you also get 17" JCW Black Spoke wheels, and a spoiler in the rear. Interior comforts include a special-edition-specific steering wheel, Harmon/Kardon premium sound system, a sunroof, and heated seats. Is all that worth $37,100? We don't know, but more horsepower and carbon fiber is never a bad deal.