Don't be confused: Unlike last year's JCW kit, which was a dealer-installed accessory, the 2009 Mini John Cooper Works Hardtop and Mini John Cooper Works Clubman are actual production models. The John Cooper Works models effectively replace the kit, and for about the same money, they offer even more power and performance. The 1.6-liter turbo four from the Cooper S and Clubman S models has been revised for more power, featuring a reworked cylinder head and turbocharger and new intake and exhaust systems similar to those used in the Mini Cooper Challenge race car. Re-mapped ECU programming now allows almost 19 psi of boost (up from 13 psi), bumping output to 208 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque. An overboost function temporarily allows even higher boost for a midrange torque peak of 207 lb-ft - quite a lot of twist for a diminutive four-cylinder. The exhaust is more vocal than the S exhaust, with a lovely, hard-edged wail at high rpm and no boominess. A resonance tube connects the engine's intake to the inside of the dashboard to transmit additional intake honk when in Sport mode, filling out the acoustic experience. We wish the exhaust were a little louder outside, though, since full-throttle runs through a tunnel weren't quite as entertaining as we had hoped. At low speeds, the modified turbo announces its presence with that oh-so-pleasant whoosh, and the motor generates huge torque everywhere in the rev range. This particular car has lowering springs-an added JCW upper stress bar- and upgraded ignition wires!