Latest news with #MikeCooper
CTV News
a day ago
- Entertainment
- CTV News
Bigg Wiggle announces their last performance
It's the end of an era for a Windsor cover band, as they announce their last performance will be on New Year's Eve. It's the end of an era for a Windsor cover band, as they announce their last performance will be on New Year's Eve. Bigg Wiggle has played almost every stage in Windsor raising $150,000 over the years for charity through their own Bigg Wiggle Fest. Band members Dave Lebute and Mike Cooper said they played corporate gigs, weddings bars, until their success snowballed into invites to festivals including Essex Fun Fest and the Corn Fest. Their final performance will be on the last day of 2025 at the St. Clair College Centre for the Arts. Throughout the years they've played songs from Dolly Parton to Flo Rida. The two look back fondly over the years. 'I mean, going to miss the heck out of it. It'll be nice to spend a weekend with my wife, I think, a whole weekend,' said Cooper.
7NEWS
13-05-2025
- Automotive
- 7NEWS
Mini's new JCW range proves lightweight thrills aren't dead in the EV age
Mini has launched its most comprehensive JCW range to date, featuring everything from smoking-hot petrol-powered hatchbacks to stylish convertibles and, for the first time ever, all-electric variants. And yes, they've never looked better, while still offering the BMW-owned small car brand's trademark go-kart handling. For as long as I can remember, the Mini Cooper S was the one to have – the spirited, tightly wound hot hatch that could out-hustle a Porsche 911 on a tight ribbon of tarmac from Monte Carlo to Mayfair. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. But the game changed in 2002 when BMW, which purchased the iconic British brand in 1994, introduced the first JCW tuning kit for the R50-series Mini Cooper. Born from motorsport pedigree and crafted by John Cooper's son, Mike Cooper, the JCW sub-brand evolved quickly from official aftermarket upgrade to full factory performance hero. In 2006 – the same year Alborz Fallah and I founded CarAdvice – I got behind the wheel of the first factory-built JCW: the Mini Cooper S JCW GP (R53). It was stripped out, supercharged, and stuck to the road like epoxy. Limited to just 2000 units globally, it had no rear seats and no apologies. It was brutal and brilliant. We missed a drive in the turbocharged GP2 but were there at the Nurburgring – alongside Charlie Cooper, the grandson of John Cooper and son of Mike – for the reveal of the GP3 in 2019. Charlie, now shaping the future of JCW with an eye toward electrification, remains a proper enthusiast, as evidenced by a message he sent me not long ago. 'The new range of JCWs truly embodies what John Cooper Works is all about: razor-sharp handling, a proper go-kart feel that leaves a grin on your face. 'The three-door hatch, with its racing pedigree, has proven itself at the hardest race in the world, securing a class victory at last year's Nürburgring 24 Hours with Bulldog Racing. It's not just for the road – it's born for the track.' Mini Australia hasn't confirmed whether a GP4 is in the works, but the spotlight is now squarely on the all-new JCW lineup, which is head-turning, sharp-edged, and now officially electrified. Enter the all-electric Mini JCW (JCW E) – a car I drove on a tight gymkhana course at the RACQ Mobility Centre in Queensland recently. It may be electric, but it has all the hallmarks of Mini's go-kart DNA, along with arguably the most desirable design in the current JCW stable. Finished in Midnight Black II, with body-coloured roof and subtle red accents (no stripes), it looks fast just standing still. From the pronounced diffuser and motorsport-style spoiler to the vertical air curtains and chequered-flag tailgate, it's unashamedly racy. Inside, a 9.4-inch circular OLED display anchors the dash, doubling as both infotainment hub and digital instrument cluster. The steering wheel, trimmed in vegan leather with retro vibes and modern functions, feels fantastic in the hands. Bronze metallic accents, race-style red straps, and subtle Easter eggs bring texture, tactility and curiosity to a cabin that genuinely punches above its weight in terms of premium feel. The JCW-specific seats in black vegan leather trim with contrast stitching are equal parts comfortable and supportive, even when pushing the limits. Under the skin, a 190kW front-mounted motor and 54.2kWh lithium-ion battery send 350Nm to the front wheels. The Mini JCW is claimed to hit 100km/h in 5.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 200km/h, while offering a WLTP range of up to 371km. DC fast-charging at 95kW gives you 80 per cent of battery capacity in 30 minutes. In Go-Kart mode, throttle response sharpens, the steering tightens, and the display glows red. A boost paddle on the wheel delivers an extra 20kW when you need it and synthesised cabin sounds (borrowed from BMW's i4 M50 playbook) add another layer of theatre. Despite being nearly 400kg heavier than the petrol JCW hatch, the electric version feels tight, responsive, and impressively agile. Revised suspension and steering calibration tame the heft. This is a genuine driver's car. I also sampled the JCW Countryman on the same course. Built on BMW's FAAR platform that's shared with the X1, it feels every bit the muscular crossover. With 233kW and 400Nm from its 2.0-litre turbo-four, it's the most powerful Mini ever. And the quickest – with a 0-100km/h claim of 5.4 seconds. It hauls. It corners. And it stops on a dime thanks to JCW Performance brakes and adaptive dampers. And it does it all while offering space for five and up to 1660 litres of boot capacity. If there's a more complete compact performance crossover out there that looks this good and goes with equal flair, I haven't met it. Sure, the three-door JCW hatch remains the purist's pick – light, compact, and surgically precise. But as a daily weapon with all-weather confidence and punch, the Countryman has found its way onto my personal wish list. In a world of increasingly soulless EVs and anonymous electric SUVs, the 2025 Mini JCW lineup is a masterclass in how to stay fun, fast, and relevant. The badge might be small, but the experience lives large.
Perth Now
13-05-2025
- Automotive
- Perth Now
Mini's new JCW range proves lightweight thrills aren't dead in the EV age
Mini has launched its most comprehensive JCW range to date, featuring everything from smoking-hot petrol-powered hatchbacks to stylish convertibles and, for the first time ever, all-electric variants. And yes, they've never looked better, while still offering the BMW-owned small car brand's trademark go-kart handling. For as long as I can remember, the Mini Cooper S was the one to have – the spirited, tightly wound hot hatch that could out-hustle a Porsche 911 on a tight ribbon of tarmac from Monte Carlo to Mayfair. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Supplied Credit: CarExpert But the game changed in 2002 when BMW, which purchased the iconic British brand in 1994, introduced the first JCW tuning kit for the R50-series Mini Cooper. Born from motorsport pedigree and crafted by John Cooper's son, Mike Cooper, the JCW sub-brand evolved quickly from official aftermarket upgrade to full factory performance hero. In 2006 – the same year Alborz Fallah and I founded CarAdvice – I got behind the wheel of the first factory-built JCW: the Mini Cooper S JCW GP (R53). It was stripped out, supercharged, and stuck to the road like epoxy. Limited to just 2000 units globally, it had no rear seats and no apologies. It was brutal and brilliant. Supplied Credit: CarExpert We missed a drive in the turbocharged GP2 but were there at the Nurburgring – alongside Charlie Cooper, the grandson of John Cooper and son of Mike – for the reveal of the GP3 in 2019. Charlie, now shaping the future of JCW with an eye toward electrification, remains a proper enthusiast, as evidenced by a message he sent me not long ago. 'The new range of JCWs truly embodies what John Cooper Works is all about: razor-sharp handling, a proper go-kart feel that leaves a grin on your face. 'The three-door hatch, with its racing pedigree, has proven itself at the hardest race in the world, securing a class victory at last year's Nürburgring 24 Hours with Bulldog Racing. It's not just for the road – it's born for the track.' Supplied Credit: CarExpert Mini Australia hasn't confirmed whether a GP4 is in the works, but the spotlight is now squarely on the all-new JCW lineup, which is head-turning, sharp-edged, and now officially electrified. Enter the all-electric Mini JCW (JCW E) – a car I drove on a tight gymkhana course at the RACQ Mobility Centre in Queensland recently. It may be electric, but it has all the hallmarks of Mini's go-kart DNA, along with arguably the most desirable design in the current JCW stable. Finished in Midnight Black II, with body-coloured roof and subtle red accents (no stripes), it looks fast just standing still. From the pronounced diffuser and motorsport-style spoiler to the vertical air curtains and chequered-flag tailgate, it's unashamedly racy. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Inside, a 9.4-inch circular OLED display anchors the dash, doubling as both infotainment hub and digital instrument cluster. The steering wheel, trimmed in vegan leather with retro vibes and modern functions, feels fantastic in the hands. Bronze metallic accents, race-style red straps, and subtle Easter eggs bring texture, tactility and curiosity to a cabin that genuinely punches above its weight in terms of premium feel. The JCW-specific seats in black vegan leather trim with contrast stitching are equal parts comfortable and supportive, even when pushing the limits. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Under the skin, a 190kW front-mounted motor and 54.2kWh lithium-ion battery send 350Nm to the front wheels. The Mini JCW is claimed to hit 100km/h in 5.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 200km/h, while offering a WLTP range of up to 371km. DC fast-charging at 95kW gives you 80 per cent of battery capacity in 30 minutes. In Go-Kart mode, throttle response sharpens, the steering tightens, and the display glows red. A boost paddle on the wheel delivers an extra 20kW when you need it and synthesised cabin sounds (borrowed from BMW's i4 M50 playbook) add another layer of theatre. Despite being nearly 400kg heavier than the petrol JCW hatch, the electric version feels tight, responsive, and impressively agile. Revised suspension and steering calibration tame the heft. This is a genuine driver's car. Supplied Credit: CarExpert I also sampled the JCW Countryman on the same course. Built on BMW's FAAR platform that's shared with the X1, it feels every bit the muscular crossover. With 233kW and 400Nm from its 2.0-litre turbo-four, it's the most powerful Mini ever. And the quickest – with a 0-100km/h claim of 5.4 seconds. It hauls. It corners. And it stops on a dime thanks to JCW Performance brakes and adaptive dampers. And it does it all while offering space for five and up to 1660 litres of boot capacity. If there's a more complete compact performance crossover out there that looks this good and goes with equal flair, I haven't met it. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Sure, the three-door JCW hatch remains the purist's pick – light, compact, and surgically precise. But as a daily weapon with all-weather confidence and punch, the Countryman has found its way onto my personal wish list. In a world of increasingly soulless EVs and anonymous electric SUVs, the 2025 Mini JCW lineup is a masterclass in how to stay fun, fast, and relevant. The badge might be small, but the experience lives large. MORE: Everything Mini
The Advertiser
13-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
Mini's new JCW range proves lightweight thrills aren't dead in the EV age
Mini has launched its most comprehensive JCW range to date, featuring everything from smoking-hot petrol-powered hatchbacks to stylish convertibles and, for the first time ever, all-electric variants. And yes, they've never looked better, while still offering the BMW-owned small car brand's trademark go-kart handling. For as long as I can remember, the Mini Cooper S was the one to have – the spirited, tightly wound hot hatch that could out-hustle a Porsche 911 on a tight ribbon of tarmac from Monte Carlo to Mayfair. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. But the game changed in 2002 when BMW, which purchased the iconic British brand in 1994, introduced the first JCW tuning kit for the R50-series Mini Cooper. Born from motorsport pedigree and crafted by John Cooper's son, Mike Cooper, the JCW sub-brand evolved quickly from official aftermarket upgrade to full factory performance hero. In 2006 – the same year Alborz Fallah and I founded CarAdvice – I got behind the wheel of the first factory-built JCW: the Mini Cooper S JCW GP (R53). It was stripped out, supercharged, and stuck to the road like epoxy. Limited to just 2000 units globally, it had no rear seats and no apologies. It was brutal and brilliant. We missed a drive in the turbocharged GP2 but were there at the Nurburgring – alongside Charlie Cooper, the grandson of John Cooper and son of Mike – for the reveal of the GP3 in 2019. Charlie, now shaping the future of JCW with an eye toward electrification, remains a proper enthusiast, as evidenced by a message he sent me not long ago. "The new range of JCWs truly embodies what John Cooper Works is all about: razor-sharp handling, a proper go-kart feel that leaves a grin on your face. "The three-door hatch, with its racing pedigree, has proven itself at the hardest race in the world, securing a class victory at last year's Nürburgring 24 Hours with Bulldog Racing. It's not just for the road – it's born for the track." Mini Australia hasn't confirmed whether a GP4 is in the works, but the spotlight is now squarely on the all-new JCW lineup, which is head-turning, sharp-edged, and now officially electrified. Enter the all-electric Mini JCW (JCW E) – a car I drove on a tight gymkhana course at the RACQ Mobility Centre in Queensland recently. It may be electric, but it has all the hallmarks of Mini's go-kart DNA, along with arguably the most desirable design in the current JCW stable. Finished in Midnight Black II, with body-coloured roof and subtle red accents (no stripes), it looks fast just standing still. From the pronounced diffuser and motorsport-style spoiler to the vertical air curtains and chequered-flag tailgate, it's unashamedly racy. Inside, a 9.4-inch circular OLED display anchors the dash, doubling as both infotainment hub and digital instrument cluster. The steering wheel, trimmed in vegan leather with retro vibes and modern functions, feels fantastic in the hands. Bronze metallic accents, race-style red straps, and subtle Easter eggs bring texture, tactility and curiosity to a cabin that genuinely punches above its weight in terms of premium feel. The JCW-specific seats in black vegan leather trim with contrast stitching are equal parts comfortable and supportive, even when pushing the limits. Under the skin, a 190kW front-mounted motor and 54.2kWh lithium-ion battery send 350Nm to the front wheels. The Mini JCW is claimed to hit 100km/h in 5.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 200km/h, while offering a WLTP range of up to 371km. DC fast-charging at 95kW gives you 80 per cent of battery capacity in 30 minutes. In Go-Kart mode, throttle response sharpens, the steering tightens, and the display glows red. A boost paddle on the wheel delivers an extra 20kW when you need it and synthesised cabin sounds (borrowed from BMW's i4 M50 playbook) add another layer of theatre. Despite being nearly 400kg heavier than the petrol JCW hatch, the electric version feels tight, responsive, and impressively agile. Revised suspension and steering calibration tame the heft. This is a genuine driver's car. I also sampled the JCW Countryman on the same course. Built on BMW's FAAR platform that's shared with the X1, it feels every bit the muscular crossover. With 233kW and 400Nm from its 2.0-litre turbo-four, it's the most powerful Mini ever. And the quickest – with a 0-100km/h claim of 5.4 seconds. It hauls. It corners. And it stops on a dime thanks to JCW Performance brakes and adaptive dampers. And it does it all while offering space for five and up to 1660 litres of boot capacity. If there's a more complete compact performance crossover out there that looks this good and goes with equal flair, I haven't met it. Sure, the three-door JCW hatch remains the purist's pick – light, compact, and surgically precise. But as a daily weapon with all-weather confidence and punch, the Countryman has found its way onto my personal wish list. In a world of increasingly soulless EVs and anonymous electric SUVs, the 2025 Mini JCW lineup is a masterclass in how to stay fun, fast, and relevant. The badge might be small, but the experience lives large. MORE: Everything Mini Content originally sourced from: Mini has launched its most comprehensive JCW range to date, featuring everything from smoking-hot petrol-powered hatchbacks to stylish convertibles and, for the first time ever, all-electric variants. And yes, they've never looked better, while still offering the BMW-owned small car brand's trademark go-kart handling. For as long as I can remember, the Mini Cooper S was the one to have – the spirited, tightly wound hot hatch that could out-hustle a Porsche 911 on a tight ribbon of tarmac from Monte Carlo to Mayfair. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. But the game changed in 2002 when BMW, which purchased the iconic British brand in 1994, introduced the first JCW tuning kit for the R50-series Mini Cooper. Born from motorsport pedigree and crafted by John Cooper's son, Mike Cooper, the JCW sub-brand evolved quickly from official aftermarket upgrade to full factory performance hero. In 2006 – the same year Alborz Fallah and I founded CarAdvice – I got behind the wheel of the first factory-built JCW: the Mini Cooper S JCW GP (R53). It was stripped out, supercharged, and stuck to the road like epoxy. Limited to just 2000 units globally, it had no rear seats and no apologies. It was brutal and brilliant. We missed a drive in the turbocharged GP2 but were there at the Nurburgring – alongside Charlie Cooper, the grandson of John Cooper and son of Mike – for the reveal of the GP3 in 2019. Charlie, now shaping the future of JCW with an eye toward electrification, remains a proper enthusiast, as evidenced by a message he sent me not long ago. "The new range of JCWs truly embodies what John Cooper Works is all about: razor-sharp handling, a proper go-kart feel that leaves a grin on your face. "The three-door hatch, with its racing pedigree, has proven itself at the hardest race in the world, securing a class victory at last year's Nürburgring 24 Hours with Bulldog Racing. It's not just for the road – it's born for the track." Mini Australia hasn't confirmed whether a GP4 is in the works, but the spotlight is now squarely on the all-new JCW lineup, which is head-turning, sharp-edged, and now officially electrified. Enter the all-electric Mini JCW (JCW E) – a car I drove on a tight gymkhana course at the RACQ Mobility Centre in Queensland recently. It may be electric, but it has all the hallmarks of Mini's go-kart DNA, along with arguably the most desirable design in the current JCW stable. Finished in Midnight Black II, with body-coloured roof and subtle red accents (no stripes), it looks fast just standing still. From the pronounced diffuser and motorsport-style spoiler to the vertical air curtains and chequered-flag tailgate, it's unashamedly racy. Inside, a 9.4-inch circular OLED display anchors the dash, doubling as both infotainment hub and digital instrument cluster. The steering wheel, trimmed in vegan leather with retro vibes and modern functions, feels fantastic in the hands. Bronze metallic accents, race-style red straps, and subtle Easter eggs bring texture, tactility and curiosity to a cabin that genuinely punches above its weight in terms of premium feel. The JCW-specific seats in black vegan leather trim with contrast stitching are equal parts comfortable and supportive, even when pushing the limits. Under the skin, a 190kW front-mounted motor and 54.2kWh lithium-ion battery send 350Nm to the front wheels. The Mini JCW is claimed to hit 100km/h in 5.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 200km/h, while offering a WLTP range of up to 371km. DC fast-charging at 95kW gives you 80 per cent of battery capacity in 30 minutes. In Go-Kart mode, throttle response sharpens, the steering tightens, and the display glows red. A boost paddle on the wheel delivers an extra 20kW when you need it and synthesised cabin sounds (borrowed from BMW's i4 M50 playbook) add another layer of theatre. Despite being nearly 400kg heavier than the petrol JCW hatch, the electric version feels tight, responsive, and impressively agile. Revised suspension and steering calibration tame the heft. This is a genuine driver's car. I also sampled the JCW Countryman on the same course. Built on BMW's FAAR platform that's shared with the X1, it feels every bit the muscular crossover. With 233kW and 400Nm from its 2.0-litre turbo-four, it's the most powerful Mini ever. And the quickest – with a 0-100km/h claim of 5.4 seconds. It hauls. It corners. And it stops on a dime thanks to JCW Performance brakes and adaptive dampers. And it does it all while offering space for five and up to 1660 litres of boot capacity. If there's a more complete compact performance crossover out there that looks this good and goes with equal flair, I haven't met it. Sure, the three-door JCW hatch remains the purist's pick – light, compact, and surgically precise. But as a daily weapon with all-weather confidence and punch, the Countryman has found its way onto my personal wish list. In a world of increasingly soulless EVs and anonymous electric SUVs, the 2025 Mini JCW lineup is a masterclass in how to stay fun, fast, and relevant. The badge might be small, but the experience lives large. MORE: Everything Mini Content originally sourced from: Mini has launched its most comprehensive JCW range to date, featuring everything from smoking-hot petrol-powered hatchbacks to stylish convertibles and, for the first time ever, all-electric variants. And yes, they've never looked better, while still offering the BMW-owned small car brand's trademark go-kart handling. For as long as I can remember, the Mini Cooper S was the one to have – the spirited, tightly wound hot hatch that could out-hustle a Porsche 911 on a tight ribbon of tarmac from Monte Carlo to Mayfair. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. But the game changed in 2002 when BMW, which purchased the iconic British brand in 1994, introduced the first JCW tuning kit for the R50-series Mini Cooper. Born from motorsport pedigree and crafted by John Cooper's son, Mike Cooper, the JCW sub-brand evolved quickly from official aftermarket upgrade to full factory performance hero. In 2006 – the same year Alborz Fallah and I founded CarAdvice – I got behind the wheel of the first factory-built JCW: the Mini Cooper S JCW GP (R53). It was stripped out, supercharged, and stuck to the road like epoxy. Limited to just 2000 units globally, it had no rear seats and no apologies. It was brutal and brilliant. We missed a drive in the turbocharged GP2 but were there at the Nurburgring – alongside Charlie Cooper, the grandson of John Cooper and son of Mike – for the reveal of the GP3 in 2019. Charlie, now shaping the future of JCW with an eye toward electrification, remains a proper enthusiast, as evidenced by a message he sent me not long ago. "The new range of JCWs truly embodies what John Cooper Works is all about: razor-sharp handling, a proper go-kart feel that leaves a grin on your face. "The three-door hatch, with its racing pedigree, has proven itself at the hardest race in the world, securing a class victory at last year's Nürburgring 24 Hours with Bulldog Racing. It's not just for the road – it's born for the track." Mini Australia hasn't confirmed whether a GP4 is in the works, but the spotlight is now squarely on the all-new JCW lineup, which is head-turning, sharp-edged, and now officially electrified. Enter the all-electric Mini JCW (JCW E) – a car I drove on a tight gymkhana course at the RACQ Mobility Centre in Queensland recently. It may be electric, but it has all the hallmarks of Mini's go-kart DNA, along with arguably the most desirable design in the current JCW stable. Finished in Midnight Black II, with body-coloured roof and subtle red accents (no stripes), it looks fast just standing still. From the pronounced diffuser and motorsport-style spoiler to the vertical air curtains and chequered-flag tailgate, it's unashamedly racy. Inside, a 9.4-inch circular OLED display anchors the dash, doubling as both infotainment hub and digital instrument cluster. The steering wheel, trimmed in vegan leather with retro vibes and modern functions, feels fantastic in the hands. Bronze metallic accents, race-style red straps, and subtle Easter eggs bring texture, tactility and curiosity to a cabin that genuinely punches above its weight in terms of premium feel. The JCW-specific seats in black vegan leather trim with contrast stitching are equal parts comfortable and supportive, even when pushing the limits. Under the skin, a 190kW front-mounted motor and 54.2kWh lithium-ion battery send 350Nm to the front wheels. The Mini JCW is claimed to hit 100km/h in 5.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 200km/h, while offering a WLTP range of up to 371km. DC fast-charging at 95kW gives you 80 per cent of battery capacity in 30 minutes. In Go-Kart mode, throttle response sharpens, the steering tightens, and the display glows red. A boost paddle on the wheel delivers an extra 20kW when you need it and synthesised cabin sounds (borrowed from BMW's i4 M50 playbook) add another layer of theatre. Despite being nearly 400kg heavier than the petrol JCW hatch, the electric version feels tight, responsive, and impressively agile. Revised suspension and steering calibration tame the heft. This is a genuine driver's car. I also sampled the JCW Countryman on the same course. Built on BMW's FAAR platform that's shared with the X1, it feels every bit the muscular crossover. With 233kW and 400Nm from its 2.0-litre turbo-four, it's the most powerful Mini ever. And the quickest – with a 0-100km/h claim of 5.4 seconds. It hauls. It corners. And it stops on a dime thanks to JCW Performance brakes and adaptive dampers. And it does it all while offering space for five and up to 1660 litres of boot capacity. If there's a more complete compact performance crossover out there that looks this good and goes with equal flair, I haven't met it. Sure, the three-door JCW hatch remains the purist's pick – light, compact, and surgically precise. But as a daily weapon with all-weather confidence and punch, the Countryman has found its way onto my personal wish list. In a world of increasingly soulless EVs and anonymous electric SUVs, the 2025 Mini JCW lineup is a masterclass in how to stay fun, fast, and relevant. The badge might be small, but the experience lives large. MORE: Everything Mini Content originally sourced from: Mini has launched its most comprehensive JCW range to date, featuring everything from smoking-hot petrol-powered hatchbacks to stylish convertibles and, for the first time ever, all-electric variants. And yes, they've never looked better, while still offering the BMW-owned small car brand's trademark go-kart handling. For as long as I can remember, the Mini Cooper S was the one to have – the spirited, tightly wound hot hatch that could out-hustle a Porsche 911 on a tight ribbon of tarmac from Monte Carlo to Mayfair. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. But the game changed in 2002 when BMW, which purchased the iconic British brand in 1994, introduced the first JCW tuning kit for the R50-series Mini Cooper. Born from motorsport pedigree and crafted by John Cooper's son, Mike Cooper, the JCW sub-brand evolved quickly from official aftermarket upgrade to full factory performance hero. In 2006 – the same year Alborz Fallah and I founded CarAdvice – I got behind the wheel of the first factory-built JCW: the Mini Cooper S JCW GP (R53). It was stripped out, supercharged, and stuck to the road like epoxy. Limited to just 2000 units globally, it had no rear seats and no apologies. It was brutal and brilliant. We missed a drive in the turbocharged GP2 but were there at the Nurburgring – alongside Charlie Cooper, the grandson of John Cooper and son of Mike – for the reveal of the GP3 in 2019. Charlie, now shaping the future of JCW with an eye toward electrification, remains a proper enthusiast, as evidenced by a message he sent me not long ago. "The new range of JCWs truly embodies what John Cooper Works is all about: razor-sharp handling, a proper go-kart feel that leaves a grin on your face. "The three-door hatch, with its racing pedigree, has proven itself at the hardest race in the world, securing a class victory at last year's Nürburgring 24 Hours with Bulldog Racing. It's not just for the road – it's born for the track." Mini Australia hasn't confirmed whether a GP4 is in the works, but the spotlight is now squarely on the all-new JCW lineup, which is head-turning, sharp-edged, and now officially electrified. Enter the all-electric Mini JCW (JCW E) – a car I drove on a tight gymkhana course at the RACQ Mobility Centre in Queensland recently. It may be electric, but it has all the hallmarks of Mini's go-kart DNA, along with arguably the most desirable design in the current JCW stable. Finished in Midnight Black II, with body-coloured roof and subtle red accents (no stripes), it looks fast just standing still. From the pronounced diffuser and motorsport-style spoiler to the vertical air curtains and chequered-flag tailgate, it's unashamedly racy. Inside, a 9.4-inch circular OLED display anchors the dash, doubling as both infotainment hub and digital instrument cluster. The steering wheel, trimmed in vegan leather with retro vibes and modern functions, feels fantastic in the hands. Bronze metallic accents, race-style red straps, and subtle Easter eggs bring texture, tactility and curiosity to a cabin that genuinely punches above its weight in terms of premium feel. The JCW-specific seats in black vegan leather trim with contrast stitching are equal parts comfortable and supportive, even when pushing the limits. Under the skin, a 190kW front-mounted motor and 54.2kWh lithium-ion battery send 350Nm to the front wheels. The Mini JCW is claimed to hit 100km/h in 5.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 200km/h, while offering a WLTP range of up to 371km. DC fast-charging at 95kW gives you 80 per cent of battery capacity in 30 minutes. In Go-Kart mode, throttle response sharpens, the steering tightens, and the display glows red. A boost paddle on the wheel delivers an extra 20kW when you need it and synthesised cabin sounds (borrowed from BMW's i4 M50 playbook) add another layer of theatre. Despite being nearly 400kg heavier than the petrol JCW hatch, the electric version feels tight, responsive, and impressively agile. Revised suspension and steering calibration tame the heft. This is a genuine driver's car. I also sampled the JCW Countryman on the same course. Built on BMW's FAAR platform that's shared with the X1, it feels every bit the muscular crossover. With 233kW and 400Nm from its 2.0-litre turbo-four, it's the most powerful Mini ever. And the quickest – with a 0-100km/h claim of 5.4 seconds. It hauls. It corners. And it stops on a dime thanks to JCW Performance brakes and adaptive dampers. And it does it all while offering space for five and up to 1660 litres of boot capacity. If there's a more complete compact performance crossover out there that looks this good and goes with equal flair, I haven't met it. Sure, the three-door JCW hatch remains the purist's pick – light, compact, and surgically precise. But as a daily weapon with all-weather confidence and punch, the Countryman has found its way onto my personal wish list. In a world of increasingly soulless EVs and anonymous electric SUVs, the 2025 Mini JCW lineup is a masterclass in how to stay fun, fast, and relevant. The badge might be small, but the experience lives large. MORE: Everything Mini Content originally sourced from:
BBC News
03-05-2025
- General
- BBC News
Church bells and beacons to mark VE day in Berkshire
Church bells will ring out and beacons will be lit across Berkshire as it commemorates 80 years since VE 8 May marks the anniversary of the day fighting against Nazi Germany in Europe came to an end in 1945.A number of events including historical talks, a market, parades and services are being held across the county for the occasion, both on the anniversary itself and over the early May bank parties are also being held in some areas such as Holyport and Sunningdale in Maidenhead, resulting in road closures. Celebrations begin on Sunday, with a Big Lunch hosted by Binfield Parish Council in Farley Wood Community council has promised live music, entertainment, rides and a range of food and drink stalls, with attendees encouraged to dress up in 1940s outfits, or red, white and Monday, residents can visit the Best of British Market on The Broadway in Thatcham for food stalls including British cheese and honey, crafts and jewellery, and Slough, residents can visit St George's CofE Church on Long Furlong Drive for food from around the world, games from the 1940s, face painting and henna painting, among other those looking to learn more about the history, Project Purley is hosting an exhibition and a talk by historian Mike Cooper, teaching people all about the role Purley played in the war and what happened in Europe in 1945. On Thursday, the anniversary itself, a number of services are being held across flag will be raised at Foxley Fields at 09:00 BST, and that evening there will be a military parade, garden games and live music, before the lighting of the beacon. At the war memorial in Woodford Park in Woodley, the town mayor will lay a wreath ahead of the lighting of the will also be lit at the Butchers Arms Pub on Sonning Common and School Green War Memorial in Newbury, a service will be held at the war memorial, followed by a celebration lunch for over-65s at Fair Close Day festivities carry on into next weekend, with community celebrations in Victoria Park, Newbury, from 11:00 to 15:00 on Saturday 10 May. You can follow BBC Berkshire on Facebook, X, or Instagram.
