Mini Unveils New John Cooper Works Countryman

2018 Mini John Cooper Works Countryman (Credit: Mini)

We’ve already seen the second-gen Countryman, which is bigger than the first. Now Mini’s proudly showing off the John Cooper Works edition of the car. It’s a hopped-up version, with a peak 228 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque squeezed out of the turbocharged four-cylinder. All-wheel drive is standard, and 0-60 takes 6.2 seconds.

As a proper enthusiast car, a six-speed manual is standard. You have to opt for an 8-speed Steptronic, which is how things should be. With the latter option you also get paddle shifters and launch control.

So far, it sounds like a fun little, or big, go-kart. Handling is boosted by the sports suspension and Brembo sports brakes, plus 18-inch light alloy wheels.

Like other John Cooper Works Minis, the car has a special aero kit. Included in the setup are big front air intakes and other, surprisingly subtle additions.

There are some other race-inspired styling details and interior treatments to make you feel special. Really, the important part of this new model is that the turbo four-cylinder engine, combined with all-wheel drive, makes this an accessible rally car. Sure, it’s no Evo, which we’ll always miss, but it’s far better than another Camry wanna-be.

So if you’re looking for a fun car you can still use to take the kids to soccer practice and do big grocery runs, this could be something to consider.