2024 MINI John Cooper Works 1to6 Edition – AutoMart Review
To honour the classic manual transmission amidst the rising tide of electric vehicles, MINI introduces a special edition of its most exhilarating hatchback—the 1to6 Edition of the MINI John Cooper Works. This exclusive model is restricted to a production of just 999 units globally. It boasts an elegant Midnight Black finish coupled with Piano Black exterior elements. The car features a distinctive stripe decal along the front hood, 18-inch Circuit Spoke wheels, and is adorned with 1to6 badges on various parts such as the C-pillar, side fenders, dashboard, steering wheel, sunroof, and door sill. Additionally, the rear of the car presents a 6-speed shift pattern symbol. The interior is uniquely marked with a ‘One of 999’ emblem on the dashboard’s left side.
Beyond its eye-catching aesthetics, there are no performance modifications in the 1to6 Edition beyond what can be optionally equipped on the standard John Cooper Works model, most notably the unique badges. This may seem like a letdown for those seeking extra power, yet the John Cooper Works model continues to captivate with its dynamic performance and completeness as a sporty hatchback, although it might not spur enthusiasts to rush to reserve their spot on the waitlist just yet.
Nevertheless, the MINI John Cooper Works 3-Door remains a top recommendation among compact sports cars, holding its own even against impressive new entries like the Toyota GR Corolla and Subaru BRZ. It commands respect with its blend of classic and contemporary design, luxurious interior, and array of personalization options. The allure of the JCW is not solely based on sheer power but also the emotional connection it fosters with the driver.
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Step inside the MINI and sink into the well-formed seats in an optimal driving position, complete with a deep footwell and a telescoping steering wheel that adjusts generously, accommodating even taller drivers who prefer a remote wheel reach without compromising posture. The driver’s gauges move with the steering wheel, ensuring perfect visibility.
The pedal placement and gear shifter are thoughtfully positioned, though the wide range of pedal travel and the subtle clutch engagement point may challenge the unaccustomed. Shifting precisely from first to second gear demands practice, and although less forgiving than its counterparts from Honda or Subaru, it offers a tactile pleasure well worth mastering.
The manual transmission features automatic rev-matching when in Sport Mode, facilitating a smoother drive in stop-and-go traffic by easing the burden on your legs. However, purists might prefer switching to Normal or Eco mode, which disables this feature for a more hands-on approach to managing revs.
The gear lever, longer than those in comparable models like the Toyota GR86 or Honda Civic Si, demands deliberate handling but adds to the engaging driving experience. Despite its length, it imparts a satisfyingly deliberate engagement through each shift.
The steering wheel in the JCW is straightforward, free from excessive controls, focusing solely on driving pleasure. Though the leather wrap provides a secure grip, some drivers might find it slightly slim if they have smaller hands. A minor annoyance comes from the central armrest, which, when lifted, hinders arm movement while shifting, though it’s a small blemish on an otherwise driver-focused cabin design.
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Driving the JCW is exhilarating—the turbocharged 2.0-litre engine, despite a smaller output compared to the all-wheel-drive Countryman JCW variant, provides thrilling acceleration and nimble handling that feels sharp during aggressive cornering, even if it lacks the outright punch of its larger brother. However, the FWD configuration feels balanced and capable without the need for additional power.
In corners, the JCW exhibits neutral handling with a commendable grip, maintaining composure through curves and offering a lively yet stable driving experience, particularly at higher speeds. It straddles the line between the polished demeanour of a Volkswagen Golf R and the unfiltered driving joy of a rear-wheel-drive Toyota GR86 or Subaru BRZ.
In daily driving, the JCW manages rough surfaces well given its stiff setup, balancing sportiness with everyday usability better than some more track-focused competitors. The exhaust system, while more subdued than in previous generations, still hints at its agile character without becoming overbearing.
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The new 1to6 Edition, then, does more than just add a few design tweaks—it celebrates the manual transmission and reaffirms the MINI JCW as a car that provides joy not just through performance but through an engaging, tactile driving experience. In a world progressively dominated by automatic transmissions and electric drivetrains, it’s a poignant homage to a fading art.
Author: Craig Clowes
Images: MINI Canada
