The “John Cooper Works” (JWC) namesake is an iconic one, with this moniker worn by the sportiest MINIs ever created. However, “JCW” was missed from the previous-generation Cooper SE (yup, the all-electric model). But that is about to change. Indeed, MINI has handed the latest iteration of its emissions-free, three-door Cooper the JCW treatment. So, what can you expect? Here are the highlights…
For starters, the MINI Cooper SE JCW Trim features, well, JCW trim bits. Looks good, doesn’t it?
The MINI Cooper SE JCW is equipped with JCW-specific design elements, such as a new “John Cooper Works” logo. The latter is finished in red, white, and black to stay true to the original. A chequered flag has also been placed on this MINI Cooper SE’s front grille, which is painted in high-gloss black.
Continuing with the front, the octagonal, closed-off (it is an emissions-free vehicle, after all) grille is flanked by LED headlamps. The latter items feature signature lighting patterns, such as a duo of horizontal stripes.
In addition, the bonnet features racing stripes (as it should be on a JCW MINI). There are also “striking” front and rear diffusers to lend this battery powered hatchback a sporty persona.
The MINI Copper SE JCW Trim sits on a set of 18-inch, Lap Spoke wheels with a dual-tone finish. The 10-spoke alloy items house red brake callipers.
Stepping inside, this MINI Cooper SE model is equipped with a circular OLED infotainment display. Dominating the minimalistic dashboard, the latter, touch-enabled item features smartphone screen mirroring, and is used to operate functions such as climate and satellite navigation.
However, there’s more. Through this set-up, you can initiate Go-Kart Mode. When the latter has been activated, the (augmented) sound of the MINI Cooper SE JCW Trim produces a bespoke “go-kart” sound. We’re looking forward to testing this for ourselves once the new MINI Cooper SE JCW trim lands in South Africa.
The interior is inspired by racing, and features seats trimmed in multi-coloured, knitted material, replete with red contrast stitching. The colour red can also be found on the dashboard.
So, what about power output? Well, it seems the JCW Trim is, indeed, only trim. Thus, it is endowed with the same 54.2 kWh battery found in the box-fresh Cooper SE. The system produces 160 kW and 330 Nm of torque for a claimed 0-100 km/h time of 6.7 seconds.