The MINI range got a facelift this year but the JCW models will be getting a further upgrade as 2019 rolls in, in the shape of cleaner engines. The British manufacturer announced today that their top-performing Hardtop and Convertible models will get an Otto particulate filter by March 2019 which would transform the cars into Euro6-temp compliant models. The new filter will be integrated in the sports exhaust, of course, and it remains to be seen how it will affect the sound of the cars.
The MINI JCW models are known to provide some of the best soundtracks a 2-liter petrol engine can deliver and it would be a shame to see it all disappear. BMW claims none of the flavor the two provide will dissipate but that remains for us to decide. Both the manual and automatic models will be affected. Furthermore, MINI claims that the introduction of the latest exhaust emissions reduction technology has no influence on the fuel consumption and CO2 values of both cars.
With the standard 6-speed manual gearbox, the MINI John Cooper Works accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.3 seconds and takes 5.6 seconds to go from 80 to 120 km/h (50-70 mph). The MINI John Cooper Works Convertible completes the standard sprint in 6.6 seconds from standstill and the interim sprint in 6.1 seconds. The 8-speed Steptronic sports transmission is optionally available for both John Cooper Works models and it doesn’t improve the acceleration figures.
New customization options will also be available. The interior equipment feature MINI Yours Interior Style Piano Black illuminated package includes the back-lit trim area on the front passenger side and the Piano Black Exterior option with high-gloss black surrounds for the headlamps, the rear lights and the radiator grille. The latest additions to the range of options and accessories include the telephony option with wireless charging, the MINI logo projection on the driver’s side, the customizable products of the MINI Yours Customized range as well as numerous MINI Connected digital services.
