Automatic MINIs get a performance boost

BMW has had such success selling the John Cooper Works tuning kit to the U.K.'s MINI Cooper S owners (one in nine bought the upgrade) that it's decided to make it available for automatic transmission versions of the Cooper S.

The JCW kit boosts the auto-Cooper to 203 hp, a 33 hp increase from the standard version, good for 0-60 mph in 7.3 seconds. The six-speed automatic with steering wheel paddle shifters should make for a fun drive.

BMW also announced a factory JCW "sound kit" - a high flow air filter and stainless steel "sports" exhaust system. No performance boost is claimed, but the kit is said to create a "more powerful, sporty sound for the driver."

[Source: BMW Group]