LA Auto Show: Mini JCW GP unveiled with 306PS

The hot hatch is scheduled to arrive in South Africa in "limited numbers" (a small selection from the 3 000-unit global production run) from the third quarter of 2020.

In fact it positively shouts its, thanks to a distinctive body kid.

The John Cooper Works GP is visually distinguished by a combination of red highlights applied to the lower bumper intakes, front grille strip, within the large tailgate spoiler and the lower sides of the vehicle, while the carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) aero trim above each wheel also serve as wheelhouse extensions for the wheels and tyres.

Larger air intakes are on the front, and there are carbon fiber-reinforced plastic arch trim flares. The wheels are light alloy forged items which weigh less than 9 kg, according to MINI, and these also wear the GP logo on its hub centres. The only exterior paint colour on offer is "Racing Grey" metallic, with the roof and side-mirror caps finished in "Melting Silver" metallic. The headlamps and Union Jack taillamp clusters are dark-tinted. Compared to the regular vehicle, MINI has added a new engine mount, a solid support for the changed rear axle member, and a strut brace for the front suspension, all to improve stiffness.

As for the engine, that's something special too. The 4-cylinder 2.0-liter twin-turbo engine delivers 306 horsepower - 75 hp more than in the MINI John Cooper Works - and 332 lb-ft of torque.

As a result, the new JCW GP sprints from 0-100kph in 5.2sec before reaching a top end of 265kph.

Model-specific is a word you'll hear a lot of when researching this new model, as it applies to nearly everything besides the engine.

And it drives just the front wheels? Beyond the emissions controls, the three-door John Cooper Works GP features a lower back pressure exhaust, which features matt-brushed stainless steel, 90 mm diameter exits.

Inside, there are two seats with Dinamica/leather trim and red belts. New 3D-printed honeycomb metal shift paddles feature and 3D printing has also been used for the passenger dashboard panel, where the car's build number is displayed. Mini has also fitted a 5.0-inch digital instrument binnacle adapted from that in the electric Cooper.

The new Mini John Cooper Works GP has been unveiled! Pricing will be confirmed closer to release, but it's fair to say that this stands a good chance of becoming a modern MINI classic.