MINI Cooper S Auto gets tuned on

The John Cooper Works engine tuning kit has been a great success since it was launched in 2003. Demand in the UK has seen one in nine Cooper S hatch owners opting for the upgrade. From this month, the tuning kit is now available for MINI Cooper S’s with automatic transmission.

The JCW kit will push the auto-shifting Cooper S to 203bhp at 6,450 rpm with an impressive 0-62 mph in 7.3 seconds; an increase of 33bhp over the standard MINI Cooper S. Offered as an aftermarket kit from all 157 MINI dealerships, the cost is £2,999 (excl. fitting).

The Aisin six-speed transmission in a MINI Cooper S auto was developed to maintain the MINI’s traditional zesty drive. The close gear ratio settings ensure sharp gear changes and a dynamic driving experience that complements the sporty character of the MINI Cooper S. The great drive is further enhanced by the high level of standard equipment including Steptronic paddles on the steering wheel, limited slip differential and Adaptive Transmission Control (AGS). AGS allows the transmission to adapt over time to fit with the driver’s individual driving style.

MINI Cooper gets louder

As many MINI owners know, the Cooper name is synonymous with motorsport and the new John Cooper Works sound kit allows them to make their MINI Coopers sound like racing cars. The kit includes a new air filter to provide a direct acoustic connection from the engine compartment to the car’s interior creating a more powerful, sporty sound for the driver.

This has been achieved by reducing the air flow resistance in the air filter element together with modified engine electronics and a stainless steel sports exhaust that runs from the manifold pipe down to the rear silencer. The price is £645 (excl. fitting) and includes a John Cooper Works engine badge and emblem for the boot lid.

MINI gets Stuff’d for Christmas

MINI has hit another milestone this year selling its 10,000th MINI cuckoo clock since 2001. All around the country, MINI owners are getting festive to the tune of 'brum, brum, beep, beep' every hour. The clock has been bringing joy (but not peace) to homes around the country for a price of £49.95 and is available from all MINI dealerships and the mini.co.uk website. There are plenty of other gift ideas in the MINI Stuff range including clothing, watches, sunglasses, model cars and luggage.