Hot performance kits for MINI Cooper S

With the new kit the Cooper S will do the 0-100km/h squirt in 6.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 232km/h.

The factory-approved performance kit is available exclusively from MINI Parts and Accessories and costs R12,255.18 plus VAT and takes about four hours to fit.

Alternatively, a customer ordering a new Cooper S can specify the JCW tuning kit when purchasing his or her vehicle and the kit will be fitted at the delivering Dealer before the car is collected.

The 1.6 litre twin-scroll turbo engine in the MINI Cooper S receives a power increase to 141kW, up from the standard unit's 128kW. Maximum torque is increased from 240Nm to 250Nm and is available between 1750 and 5000rpm.

As with the standard car, an overboost facility is available in the first three gears of the six-speed manual gearbox (a six-speed automatic is available as an option as well), meaning John Cooper Works drivers will feel the full force of 270Nm under hard accelleration.

The new injection of power doesn't come at the expense of fuel consumption which is a moderate 6.9litres/100km.

Apart from the engine performance kit and the JCW brake kit, owners can further improve the dynamic capabilities of their cars by opting for the optional John Cooper Works suspension and strut brace.

Externally, it's easy to differentiate a MINI Cooper S JCW from the standard car. The tuning kit not only comprises a sports exhaust system with twin JCW-emblazoned tail pipes, a sports air filter and a revised engine management system but John Cooper Works branding on the front grille and tailgate indicate the tweaks carried out under the skin of tuned cars.

Further visual appeal can be added to both MINI Cooper and Cooper S models with several JCW parts including an aerodynamic body kit and 18-inch light alloy wheels in various finishes.

Whilst all the John Cooper Works performance enhancing parts and external aerodynamic components are available individually, various additional packages are available, ranging in price between R12,255 up to R38,000-odd for the full house.