2017 Mini Countryman JCW revealed with 228bhp

The 2017 Mini Countryman JCW has been revealed, as the new 228bhp flagship of the Mini range. 

Hot on the heels of the Clubman JCW estate with the same powerplant and All4 four-wheel drive system, the Countryman JCW reaches 0-62mph in 6.5sec. That's 0.5sec quicker than Nissan Juke Nismo RS, and between 0.7 and 0.8sec faster than the next-hottest Countryman, the Cooper S All4. The Countryman JCW's top speed is 145mph, just 3mph down on the Clubman JCW. Mini also points out that the car's close relationship with the Countryman JCW Rally car.

The Countryman JCW is available with either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic gearbox, both of which have the same acceleration time, as well as fuel economy of 38.1mpg and CO2 emissions of 169g/km. 

Brembo brakes reduce stopping distances, and the aggressive bodywork upgrades offer aerodynamic advantages, claims Mini, while kit upgrades include LED headlights, as well as keyless entry and start.

Under the bonnet sits Mini’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, which gets tweaks exclusive to the model, as well as the same extreme heat-resistant turbocharger material and higher turbo pressure. Like the hot Clubman, the hot Countryman produces 258lb ft of torque.

The model will make its public debut at the Shanghai motor show in April, with order books opening soon afterwards, and first deliveries commencing a few months later. The Countryman JCW is expected to cost from around £32,000 at launch.