MINI Offers New John Cooper Works and Hampton Packages
MINI Cooper John Cooper Works Pack MINI Cooper SD Clubman Hampton MINI Cooper SD Countryman |
The John Cooper Works package is a familiar option to fans of the MINI lineup of premium compact automobiles. John Cooper Works editions of the MINI Cooper Hardtop and the MINI Cooper Convertible have traditionally offered a performance boost over the standard models, improving acceleration, braking and handling as well as throwing in some additional styling tweaks to help further set them apart.
The 2011 MINI Cooper and 2011 MINI Cooper S have now gained the option of the full John Cooper Works treatment. Buyers of the 2011 MINI Cooper coupe and convertible have access to a version of the package that includes an complete aero kit (front spoiler, brake ducts, side skirts and rear bumper cover, also available separately), lightweight 17-inch wheels and two additional electronic driver's aides to complement standard dynamic stability control: dynamic traction control and electronic differential lock control.
The traction control is designed to be less intrusive during high speed maneuvering, with drivers being able to dial back the amount of interference offered up by the system, while the locking differential maximizes grip automatically while cornering at speed. A number of interior trim adjustments are also made by the John Cooper Works package, providing a sportier and more aggressive cockpit environment.
For those who choose to park a MINI Cooper S (Hardtop, Convertible or Clubman models) in their driveway a John Cooper Works Tuning Kit is also available. This performance-oriented package provides additional power from each vehicle's 1.6-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Better engine management, a less restrictive air filter and a better flowing exhaust system translate into 195 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque in total, 11 more ponies than a stock Cooper S.
Like many of BMW / MINI's turbocharged special editions of late, the Tuning Kit also adds an 'overboost'? function to the vehicle's turbocharger, allowing for brief access to 199 lb-ft of twist, useful for overtaking or hill climbing. Brembo brakes and special 18-inch wheels are also included. The tuning kit enables the already quick Cooper S to reach 60 miles per hour in just under seven seconds, on its way to a top speed of 145 miles per hour.
The 2011 MINI Cooper Clubman receives its own unique treatment from the subcompact brand through MINI's 'MINI Yours'? program. Commemorating the 1961 Morris Mini Traveller model is the MINI Clubman Hampton Package, a version of the extended platform wagon that adds a custom color (Reef Blue metallic), silver exterior trim, 17-inch wheels, HID headlights and Hampton badging. Inside, the limited edition MINI Clubman comes with more Hampton tags, as well as lounge leather upholstery and other upgraded accommodations.
MINI Yours is intended as a way for the British brand to create a series of 'one-off'? designs that will be available for only a short amount of time before being discontinued. In many ways it is similar to the Scion 'Release Series'? special edition models that provide unique option packages, colors and vehicle designs based on standard automobiles from the car company's lineup. The Hampton Package will remain on sale for a period of 12 months.