The little Mini that has been around in the states for a while is a cool car, but none of its variations have ever been real speed demons. The hottest of the series is the John Cooper Works version, and the 2020 GP iteration is being shown off in LA. The car has interesting style that some will love, and others will hate.
It has plenty of GP logos around the exterior, including big ones on the ends of the wing mounted atop the hatch. The oddest bit is the plastic extensions over the fenders in the front and rear that we assume are meant to perform some aero function and cover wider tires.
Performance and Specifications
Mini says the car can run the Nurburgring in under 8-minutes. This impressive feat places it among some of the more elite performance cars, showcasing its capabilities on one of the world’s most challenging tracks. The 2020 JCW GP is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces a whopping 301 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. This makes it the most powerful Mini ever produced. The car is only offered in automatic form, which might disappoint some purists who prefer a manual transmission for a more engaging driving experience.
The suspension has been tuned for performance, featuring a lower ride height and stiffer springs to enhance handling. The braking system has also been upgraded to ensure that the car can stop as quickly as it accelerates. The GP iteration includes a limited-slip differential to help manage the power delivery to the front wheels, reducing understeer and improving cornering performance.
Design and Features
The design of the 2020 JCW GP is aggressive and functional. The large rear wing and the plastic fender extensions are not just for show; they serve to improve aerodynamics and stability at high speeds. The car sits on 18-inch lightweight forged wheels wrapped in high-performance tires, further emphasizing its track-focused nature.
Inside, the GP features a stripped-down interior to save weight. The rear seats have been removed, replaced by a strut brace that adds rigidity to the chassis. The front seats are sporty bucket seats that provide excellent support during spirited driving. The dashboard and door panels feature unique GP badging and trim to set it apart from the standard JCW models.
The infotainment system includes a touchscreen display with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility. Despite its performance focus, the GP doesn’t skimp on modern conveniences, offering features like automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and advanced driver assistance systems.
Pricing and Availability
Autoblog reports the JCW GP will ring in at $45,750 when it hits showrooms next year, and only 3,000 units will be made. That’s a lot of cash at nearly $10,000 more than the Civic Type R. However, the limited production run and the unique performance characteristics of the JCW GP make it a desirable option for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
The high price tag reflects not only the performance upgrades but also the exclusivity of the model. Each unit will be individually numbered, adding to its collectible appeal. For those who can afford it, the JCW GP offers a unique blend of Mini’s iconic design with serious performance capabilities.
The 2020 Mini John Cooper Works GP is a remarkable addition to the Mini lineup. It combines aggressive styling, impressive performance, and modern features in a package that is sure to turn heads. Whether you love or hate its bold design, there’s no denying that the JCW GP is a significant step forward for Mini in the performance car market.
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
