MINI has revealed a new John Cooper Works (JCW) Convertible ahead of a New York motor show debut.

The new JCW Convertible combines an ‘authentic racing feel with intense open-air enjoyment’ according to MINI and is powered by a 2.0 litre 4-cylinder engine developed exclusively for John Cooper Works models. The most powerful engine in the MINI portfolio, with 170bhp, has an output increase of 20 hp compared to the predecessor model and 39 hp over the new MINI Cooper S Convertible. This results in a 0-62mph time of 6.6 seconds with the manual transmission and 6.5 seconds with the Steptronic transmission. Top speed has increased by 4mph to 150mph. Average fuel consumption is 36.1mpg with CO2 emissions of 152 g/km.

Standard trim includes Brembo sports brake system, 17-inch John Cooper Works light alloy wheels Track Spoke silver and speed-related Servotronic steering support. Dynamic Damper Control is available as an option while Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) is standard with DTC (Dynamic Traction Control), EDLC (Electronic Differential Lock Control) and Performance Control. Standard trim includes fully automatic soft top operation, air conditioning, MINI Driving Modes, Radio MINI Boost with AUX-IN and USB socket, as well as Park Distance Control.

A new textile top has been added with the optional ‘MINI Yours’ Union Jack graphic. The fully electrically powered top features a low-noise operation for the first time and opens and closes at the press of a button, in 18 seconds. The roof will also open and close during travel at speeds up to 18mph while a sliding roof function works at any road speed. Fully integrated rollover protection bars sit behind the rear seats while there are also John Cooper Works sports seats in Dinamica/fabric Carbon Black with integrated headrests.

The interior also features a JCW leather steering wheel with multifunction buttons and shift paddles in conjunction with the 6-speed Steptronic sport transmission, John Cooper Works gearshift or selector lever, cockpit displays and central instrument surround in model-specific design and pedals and driver footrest in stainless steel.

The new John Cooper Works Convertible is expected to go on sale in March, with prices starting around the £26k mark.