Another Paris debutante?
Got it in one. This time it's the John Cooper Works version of the MINI Clubman. Most of it is fairly predictable, if you're familiar with the MINI JCW Hatch in any case. That means a feisty turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine up front producing 231hp at 5,000- to 6,000rpm, 350Nm of torque between 1,450- and 4,500rpm and a six-speed manual gearbox as standard - the eight-speed auto is optional.
There's a JCW-themed update inside and out including sports seats and 18-inch wheels as standard, sports suspension, upgraded brakes and a sports exhaust with a flap that adjusts to alter the sound. Buyers can upgrade to 19-inch rims and even can specify an adjustable damping system with two distinct settings.
Ok, anything we couldn't have guessed?
Actually, yes; the MINI John Cooper Works Clubman comes with ALL4 all-wheel drive as standard. This system sends all power to the front axle unless its brain reckons the rear wheels could be usefully employed. We expect to see this applied to the all-new MINI Countryman in time too.
Ah, and is that SUV coming to Paris?
Apparently not.
So how much is the JCW Clubman?
The manual version costs £29,345 on-the-road, while the automatic mode is £30,945.
Shane O' Donoghue - 20 Sep 2016