The 2015 MINI JCW Hardtop has made its debut at the North American International Motor Show in Detroit. The model was introduced by rally legend Rauno Aaltonen and MINI also took the opportunity to announce its new motorsports partnership with LAP Motorsports to compete in the Street Tuner (ST) class of the Continental Tire SportsCar Championship.

MINI JCW Hardtop packs a punch

The 2015 MINI JCW Hardtop is the first model to be built on BMW’s shared front wheel drive global architecture and has been tuned for high performance track and road use.

Power comes in the form of a 2.0-litre TwinPower four-cylinder engine that kicks out 170 kW and 320 Nm of torque which translates into a 0-100 kph sprint time of 6.3 seconds and a top speed of 246 kph using a 6-speed Sportstronic transmission. This engine is the most powerful ever installed in a MINI production car, so it seems dynamite really does come in a small package.

Styling Features

The 2015 MINI JCW features a more aggressive face with its new front fascia with large air intakes and honeycomb grille. Stylish side skirts and a new rear bumper enhance the overall look along with a spoiler mounted on the tailgate and a center-mounted dual exhaust system.

The model rides on exclusive 17-inch alloy wheels and benefits from LED highlights. The interior features Dinamica fabric sports seats along with a sport steering wheel, stainless steel pedals, ‘John Cooper Works’ sill plates and piano black trim.

The MINI JCW can be expected in South Africa later in 2015.