"The MINI John Cooper Works is quick enough to worry larger hot hatchbacks, just be mindful of the purchase price."
The most powerful production MINI you can buy, the MINI John Cooper Works hatchback ups the ante from the Cooper S and serves as the flagship of the range. The other hint to its potency is that it uses the name of one of the biggest influences on the small car's history – John Cooper.
The JCW builds on the MINI brand's famous ‘go-kart-like’ handling ability with stiffer and lower suspension than other models and a more powerful version of the 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine used in the Cooper S.
Smaller than a Golf GTI, the JCW is a better match for cars like the Audi S1 and Abarth 595 Competizione – a hot version of the chic Fiat 500 city car. The JCW starts at just over £23,000 – around £2,000 cheaper than the S1, but roughly £2,000 more expensive than the Abarth. And it's a massive £5,500 more than the cheapest version of our favourite small hot hatch, the Ford Fiesta ST.
Mini JCW review:
Mini JCW prices and specs:
Ford Fiesta ST review:
Polo GTI review:
Watch our latest video:
Follow us:
Subscribe to Auto Express magazine:
Carbuyer makes car buying simple. We're the only automotive brand that's approved by the Plain English Campaign, delivering you clear, concise and easy to understand information about the things that really matter when you're choosing - and buying - your next car.
Every week, Carbuyer's YouTube channel brings you simple and entertaining reviews on every major make and model that's available for sale in the UK. Plus you'll find frequently-updated top 10 features and the occasional group test for good measure.
If you want even more helpful information, head over to Carbuyer.co.uk where you'll find in-depth reviews of more than 500 cars, alongside the best buying advice and dozens of features helping you to narrow down your car buying shortlist.