The MINI John Cooper Works Concept to debut at the 2014 NAIAS

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The MINI John Cooper Works Concept will debut at the 2014 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) this January. MINI is mum on technical details, such as engine, transmission, suspension and just about every mechanical tidbit performance fans want to know. Judging by the photos, the MINI John Cooper Works Concept looks production ready.

“The thrillingly sporty driving experience on board a John Cooper Works model is the result of an overall concept developed on the back of the brand’s many years of motor sport experience. The precise interplay of the ultra-high-performance powertrain and chassis technology with the car’s aerodynamically optimized exterior features ensures that the agile and surefooted handling we have come to know as the MINI go-kart feeling shines brightly in extremely sporty driving situations as well. The result is hardcore driving fun, taken into a new dimension by the MINI John Cooper Works Concept.” – – MINI Media

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Not a word about any performance numbers.

Speculation: The 2014 MINI Cooper S 2014 Mini Cooper S has a 189 horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Normally, the John Cooper Works versions of MINIs makes more power. If this is the case, it’s my guess that the MINI John Cooper Works Concept will make about 200 hp – give or take a few horses. Add to that a more aggressive suspension package, beefier brakes and sticky rubber – you have the makings of an up-to-date MINI John Cooper Works. Mind you, this is all speculation.

Here’s what MINI has to say about the exterior design: “Large air intakes – filling the space reserved for fog lights in the series-produced MINI models – and precisely formed air-channeling elements mark out the front apron of the MINI John Cooper Works Concept, which also features LED headlights and a black surround for the front grille. The model-specific John Cooper Works aerodynamic kit also comprises specially contoured side skirts and a rear apron with flaps and a diffuser element. The study car further features a roof spoiler and additional body components designed to channel air efficiently around the C-pillars for optimized aerodynamic balance at high speeds.

Exclusive body paintwork, familiar contrast color

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The Bright Highways Grey exterior paint shade owes its expressive character to a special manufacturing process. The hand-polished surface layer is finished with a clear coat and the resulting lustrous sheen of the paintwork further accentuates the eye-catching structures of its pigment layer. Exuding purity and solidity, this paint finish is complemented by John Cooper Works hallmarks such as contrasting red for the roof, roof spoiler and exterior mirror caps. Also included are Sport Stripes – in Chili Red for the bonnet and boot lid, and in white for the roof. Additional red accents adorn the rim wells of the John Cooper Works light-alloy wheels, the calipers of the sports brakes, the side indicator surrounds and the contour lines of the front and rear apron. A red accent line also lends particular emphasis to the John Cooper Works logo on the radiator grille.

A further nod to the concept car’s impressive sporting focus can be found in the center of the rear apron. The MINI John Cooper Works Concept is fitted with a sports exhaust system including John Cooper Works silencer system, and the striking twin tailpipes with chrome finish also carry the John Cooper Works logo. With the new elite sports model destined to benefit from further development, these features suggest its enticingly sporting aura will not be restricted to visual features: an unmistakable engine soundtrack promises to share center stage.”

MINI is trying to garner more interest in its newest offering as public opinion of its recent vehicle design has been underwhelming. The MINI John Cooper Works Concept should help in gaining public interest. If the past is any indication of MINI’s driving excitement, this is a car worth hoping for.

Check out the 2014 MINI Cooper’s debut at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show!

Easily amused by anything with four wheels, Nathan Adlen reviews vehicles from the cheapest to the most prestigious. Wrecking yards, dealer lots, garages, racetracks, professional automotive testing and automotive journalism - Nathan has experienced a wide range of the automotive spectrum.  His words, good humor and videos are enjoyed worldwide.
Easily amused by anything with four wheels, Nathan Adlen reviews vehicles from the cheapest to the most prestigious. Wrecking yards, dealer lots, garages, racetracks, professional automotive testing and automotive journalism – Nathan has experienced a wide range of the automotive spectrum. His words, good humor and videos are enjoyed worldwide.