MINI Paceman

It’s no accident that the brand refers to the Paceman, essentially a two-door Countryman, as a sports activity vehicle, the same nomenclature that BMW applies to its X5. That said, if there is a variation that’s likely to endear a few critics to the Paceman, it’s this one. Meet the John Cooper Works Paceman, a vehicle created essentially from the parts bin, but impressive nevertheless. The JCW Paceman is powered by the same turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder that resides under the hood of the JCW Countryman, a proven unit co-developed with PSA Peugeot Citroën. This engine turns out 208 hp at 6000 rpm and maximum torque is 207 lb-ft, which is available from 1700 rpm. The power and torque is transmitted through a reinforced Getrag six-speed manual box. An Aisin-sourced six-speed automatic with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters is optional. The standard all-wheel-drive system is fully variable and can send up to 100 percent of its power to the rear wheels.Performance is, in Mini’s words, “gratifyingly vivacious,” with a claimed 0-to-60-mph time of 6.5 seconds. Top speed will be governed at an unremarkable 127 mph (European models can reach 140). Those JCW Pacemans equipped with the manual are EPA-rated for 25 mpg in the city and 31 on the highway, while self-shifting versions get a 23/30 split.Tangible performance upgrades include a lowered sports suspension with a high-performance braking system; a louder, “suitably stirring” (so says Mini) exhaust with chrome outlets; and unique 18-inch aluminum wheels. A 19-inch wheel option also is available. Like any Paceman, the JCW comes with electromechanical power steering.