MINI fans around the globe are already waiting to get their hands on one of the limited run special edition models due out next summer.
Just 2,000 MINI Cooper S with John Cooper Works GP Kit will be released in July next year - of which a mere 400 will be available to UK buyers.
The lightweight high performance two-seater will unleash 218bhp through a supercharged 1.6 litre engine and will be exclusively available in grey-blue metallic with a pure silver roof and chilli red wing mirrors.
A reduction in the weight has been made possible thanks to modifications to the chassis as well as a series of engineering tweaks.
These include aluminium longitudinal control arms on the rear axle and bespoke 18-inch weight-reduced alloy wheels.
But to ensure the car stays firmly rooted to the ground despite the increased power, the special edition MINI Cooper S will feature a limited slip differential and Dynamic Stability Control as standard.
Orders for the much-anticipated performance MINI, which fans have been speculating on since the new version was launched in 2001, are now being taken at MINI dealerships throughout the country, including Bateman BMW, near Lindale, Grange.
The price is in the region of £22,000.
LEFT: The new MINI Cooper S. (Contributed photo)
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