FIRST DRIVE: F56 MINI Cooper S Amplified Edition

The MINI Hatch is getting a facelift soon, and to say goodbye to the current F55 and F56 models, BMW Group Malaysia has released not one, but two special edition models. Here, we’re focusing on the sportier of the two – the Amplified Edition, currently priced at RM234,841.

Despite the copious amounts of John Cooper Works badges all around the car, the Amplified Edition is actually based on the F56 Cooper S 3 Door, and as such gets BMW’s ubiquitous B48 2.0 litre turbocharged petrol engine. It’s coupled with the JCW Pro tuning kit to boost power from 192 hp to 211 hp, while maximum torque has risen from 280 Nm to 300 Nm. As usual, there’s a six-speed automatic transmission.

The increased outputs join a smattering of JCW goodies, including an aerokit, 17-inch JCW Track Spoke alloy wheels, bucket seats, a sports steering wheel and red interior accents. But the loudest addition – literally – is a retuned exhaust with a Bluetooth remote-controlled valve silencer that, when opened, will scare the bejesus out of children and small animals.

But are those additions actually any good to have? More importantly, do the accessories add to the trademark MINI driving experience, or detract from it? Will that exhaust make your neighbours hate you? All these questions will be answered in our video review, which you can watch above. After that, share your thoughts in the comments section after the jump.

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