Geneva Preview: MINI John Cooper Works Convertible 211HP

The hottest drop-top variant of the new MINI Cooper has been officially revealed ahead its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in the beginning of March. Not surprisingly, the MINI John Cooper Works (JCW) Convertible features the same performance engineering and chassis modifications as the hatch model including a more powerful version of the 1.6-litre twin scroll-turbocharged engine that produces 211 hp and up to 280 Nm peak torque with Overboost deployed.

The engine is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox which has been strengthened to handle the extra available power. The MINI JCW Convertible goes from zero to 60 (96 km/h) in 6.9 sec or 0.4 sec slower than the hatch, and onto a top speed of 146 mph (235 km/h) while returning a combined 39.8 mpg UK that translates to 33.2 mpg US and 7.1 lt / 100km.

Other modifications concern the uprated brake system with bright red Brembo performance calipers, a series of electronic aids such as the EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution), CBC (Cornering Brake Control), EDLC (Electronic Differential Lock Control), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control incorporating Hill Assist) and DTC (Dynamic Traction Control).

Like the hatch, the JCW Convertible also features a sport button located in front of the gear stick that activates a bespoke engine control map producing boost earlier in the rev range and sharpening steering and throttle response.

Visually, the JCW Convertible subtly stands out thanks to an aero kit and a set of unique cross-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels while inside, it features a bespoke John Cooper Works Alcantara steering wheel, sport seats, JCW floor mats and glossy piano black interior.