KEY POINTS:
The Mini Cooper S is fast, but it will get a whole faster in August with the local launch of the John Cooper Works, which will be available in hatchback and Clubman wagon versions.
Both Works models feature an upgraded version of the standard Cooper S 1.6-litre turbo engine, with 155kW/280Nm (up from 128kW/240Nm). The hatch sprints to 100km/h in 6.5 seconds, while the Clubman is 0.3 seconds behind.
The Works rides on light alloy rims with higher-performance brakes, a new exhaust system and a modified six-speed manual transmission.
Sportier suspension settings are standard. As an alternative, a sports chassis with harder damper characteristics and stronger stabilisers is also available.
For a more extreme set-up, you can opt to lower the suspension by 10mm with even harder damper characteristics and stabilisers.
Pricing for the Mini John Cooper Works hatch starts at $54,900, with a $5000 premium for the Clubman.
Both cost $11,000 more than the equivalent Cooper S versions.
The New Zealand launch is expected in August.
Audi has developed a sporty concept car, based on the A3 hatchback, designed to showcase the potential of its small-capacity diesel engine.
The 2.0-litre turbo diesel unit under the bonnet of the A3 TDI clubsport quattro delivers 165kW and 450Nm of torque. It races from 0-100km/h in 6.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 240km/h.
