MINI’s twisted new Sport Activity Coupe, the Paceman, becomes even more complicated as they launch the John Cooper Works version. This car is a two-door version of the Countryman JCW and has pretty much the same technical specifications.

So you get a 1.6 liter four-cylinder engine boosted with a  twin-scroll turbocharger, direct petrol injection and BMW Group’s VALVETRONIC technology, all of which result in a total output of 160 kW/218 hp and 280 Newton metres (207 lb-ft) of torque. The torque goes up to 300 Nm if you activate the overboost function.

Performance-wise, the Paceman JCW sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 6.9 seconds with either of the gearbox; a six-speed manual or automatic. Top speed is 226 (140 mph) for the manual version or 224 km/h (139 mph) for the automatic. Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of 7.4 litres (automatic: 7.9 litres) per 100 kilometres / 38.2 (35.8) mpg imp.

Apart from the engine, other highlights of the JCW treatment include ALL4 all-wheel drive, an aerodynamic kit, 18-inch light-alloy wheels and lowered sports suspension. You also get the exclusive Chili Red paint finish can also be specified as an option for the contrast-colour roof and exterior mirror caps, as well as the interior trims.

Pricing for the MINI John Cooper Works Paceman is yet to be announced.