The Mini JCW is back

If you’re looking slightly confused right now, don’t worry. Same here. We had no idea the JCW had gone anywhere either. The news of its temporary demise completely passed us by.

Turns out when the normal Mini got facelifted a few months back, the JCW was taken off sale because its 2.0-litre engine didn’t meet new WLTP emissions regulations. But now, thanks to a petrol particulate filter, it very much does. Performance is unaffected – that means 231bhp, and 0-62mph in 6.3 seconds in the hatch and 6.6 in the convertible. That’s with the six-speed manual gearbox, but you can also have an eight-speed auto that brings small improvements in economy and CO2 figures. 

Other changes are in line with the update given to other Minis a few months ago. And yes, that includes the Union Jack taillights. JCWs get sports suspension, 17-inch alloys, beefy brakes and a JCW aero kit. Inside there’s piano black trim, leather sport seats and some infotainment. 

Orders are being taken in January, and deliveries will begin in March.