Correct me if I'm wrong, but aren't 2nd Gen JCWs (through 2012 model year) still using the Prince N14 engine (and not the Prince N18 found in the Cooper S starting in 2011 model year)?

If that's the case, then do you think MINI will use the N18 for model year 2013 JCWs, thus increasing the horsepower?

Just wondering if there's any rumors out there re. this as I'm going to try to get back in the MINI arena once the 2013s are available to order -- but would prefer the HP boost that the N18 should provide.

Also curious if MINI would ever use the N20 engine (found in the BMW 1 series) in the JCW -- but that may be stealing a bit of thunder from BMW.

 

Correct

Maybe, but don't expect huge HP gains. I've read something about 225hp possibly and some increase in fuel economy. I would be more interested in what the next gen hatch is going to look like over the engine revision. Once you go over 200hp you start having issues getting the power to the ground IMO. I don't think I'll be too bothered if the JCW N18 comes out - If I really wanted huge HP I would have chosen a different brand with RWD.

Doubt it. But from what I read, it seems to be a pretty decent mill although I still prefer their in-line sixes.

 

Had no problem putting 300+whp to the ground in my old R56 JCW.

 

Thanks for confirming.


I'm concerned about looks/exterior design changes too. After seeing the Countryman and pics of the "Rocketman" (which looks like a 2 door Countryman, especially the bonnet) then I think that it's only a matter of time before the MINI becomes a very ugly car -- that's why I'm thinking about a 2013.

I haven't driven a Bimmer in ~20yrs (had an '87 325) so I can't comment on the newer inline sixes, but here's a good (IMO) review of the N20: https://www.northamericanmotoring.co....php?p=3421562 . How it performed in the Z4 made me think of how it might perform in the JCW.