by Marty Padgett

(2008-02-25)

Click for High-Res Photo Gallery: 2009 MINI John Cooper Works

Back in January, MINI told us that it was going to take full control of the John Cooper Works name and would build a racing series around the new JCW versions of the Cooper and Clubman. Now, in Geneva next week, those MINIs will get the John Cooper Works treatment with an eye to production later this year.

The first vehicles under MINI John Cooper Works, the two new editions will share a common powertrain - an uprated version of the turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder found in S editions of the Cooper and Clubman. With direct injection and a twin-scroll turbo, the engine makes 207 horsepower in its American-market spec, as well as 192 pound-feet of torque. With its overboost function the engine can provide short bursts of up to 207 lb-ft of torque.

So outfitted, MINI promises the new JCW Cooper will sprint to 60 mph in less than 6.5 seconds, with the Clubman edition taking 0.3 seconds more.

Other features included as standard on the JCW MINIs will include light-alloy rims; a beefed-up six-speed manual transmission; high-performance brakes; and a new exhaust system. A three-spoke steering wheel and in Euro editions, a 260-kph speedometer, are also fitted.

U.S. pricing hasn't been announced. An American launch is expected after August. Stay tuned for more on the JCW MINIs as TheCarConnection.com reports from the Geneva motor show starting March 3.

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