Mini Middle East has announced the regional launch of the limited–edition Mini John Cooper Works GP, the fastest production model ever built under the nameplate of the British premium brand.

With its 1.6-litre turbo engine, bespoke suspension and race car looks, this nifty world-first is limited to 2,000 units worldwide, with limited numbers available at Mini showrooms in Bahrain, Kuwait, UAE and Qatar, a statement from the company said.

Extensively equipped with Mini John Cooper Works motor sport technology, this two-seater Mini boasts outstanding performance to match its sporty looks. Powered by an extensively modified four-cylinder turbo engine capable of developing 218 hp, with adjustable coil over suspension and an extra-powerful sports brake system, this model is set to impress. It is also one of the lightest sports cars in its class, the statement said.

The ‘GP’ in the model’s title stands for Grand Prix, and with a record-breaking acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 6.3 seconds. Its responsive power and revving ability with its 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine are reflected by dazzling racetrack performance figures.

The race car feel of the Mini is enhanced by the interior ambience of the model which (partly due to the absence of a rear seats) is focused entirely on the needs of the driver and the passenger.

Sarah Klippert, Mini Manager, BMW Group Middle East, said: "This is the most extreme Mini yet – more focused and aggressive than the original Mini John Cooper Works GP of 2006. Not only will it offer customers a chance to own the fastest model in the Mini family, but it will also allow them to experience the unadulterated transfer of motor sport expertise into everyday driving excitement.”

A limited number of Mini John Cooper Works GP models are available at Euro Motor, the exclusive BMW Group importer in Bahrain. The Mini John Cooper Works engine with optional automatic transmission is now available on all Mini models including the Mini Hatch, Mini Cabrio, Mini Clubman, Mini Countryman, Mini Coupé and Mini Roadster. – TradeArabia News Service