For those seeking added performance for your Mini Cooper, there's only one in-house name to call: John Cooper Works (JCW). Now having its official debut alongside its coupe sibling is the new Mini JCW Convertible. Power, like the coupe, comes courtesy of a 2.0-liter turbo four banger that's good for 231 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. 0-62 mph happens in 6.5 seconds and top speed is electronically limited to 150 mph. The potent, race-bred JCW performance convertible also features the same exterior performance add-ons as the coupe.
These include a new front bumper with larger air intakes and a honeycomb mesh grille, LED headlights, a sports exhaust system, and standard 17-inch alloy wheels (18-inchers are optional). The power top can be open or closed in 18 seconds at speeds up to 19 mph. Buyers will have their choice between a conventional six-speed manual or an optional six-speed Steptronic sport gearbox. Other features that separate the JCW Convertible from the less powerful Cooper S include a sports suspension featuring McPherson struts up front and a multilink rear axle. There's also a Brembo braking system and an electronic front differential.
The interior boasts sports seats, upholstery in Dinamica/fabric and an available Dinamica/Carbon Black leather version. Other standard bits include a leather-wrapped steering wheel, door sill cover strips, and stainless steel pedals. The luggage compartment can even fit up to 7.6 cubic feet of cargo. But like any Mini, this one comes at a price. Try at least $35,600 in the US. Tack on a few extras and you'll easily be at the $40k mark. Is it just us or would a fully-loaded Mazda MX-5 Miata be a much better value?