The current MINI Cooper S is a fine performance machine, but gains an extra kick with the introduction of the John Cooper Works (JCW) GP kit in a limited edition run of just 2,000 cars set for launch in June. Only 400 examples will be sold in the UK.

The JCW GP kit MINIs boast impressive performance figures thanks to a power output increase to 218bhp (up a massive 48bhp from the standard car). The top speed and acceleration times of the John Cooper Works GP machines are noticeably higher than the regular version, which already exceeds 140mph and can go from 0-60mph in under eight seconds. The GP equipped MINI hits 146mph in a straight line and drops the 0-62mph sprint time to just 6.5 seconds. The latter time in particular is owed in no small part to the reduction of weight from the car in the form of the rear seats and sound deadening.

This special edition will only be produced in the colour pictured (Thunder Blue with Pure Silver roof and Chili Red door mirrors). The price for the JCW GP model has been set at £22,000 in the UK, putting it into direct competition with the latest generation of 200bhp+ hot hatches, though its rarity is a unique selling point against the likes of the VW Golf GTi, Focus ST and Vauxhall Astra VXR. Apparently the price includes £10,000 worth of extra equipment. Better move quickly though; before the Geneva Show even started, 75% of the UK allocation were already accounted for.

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