In 2006, the second generation of the MINI was launched with a completely new body design based on a re-engineered platform, new interior and updated selection of engines.

The fastest version of the R56 generation was the limited edition Mini Cooper S MK2 (R56) Works GP which was launched at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. Extensively equipped with John Cooper Works motor sport technology, this two-seater featured an extensively modified four-cylinder turbo engine capable of developing 160 kW/ 218 hp, adjustable coilover suspension, an extra-powerful sports brake system and model-specific alloy wheels and sports tyres. Among the highlights of it’s 1.6 liter engine,were the aluminium cylinder block and bearing mounts, reinforced pistons, sturdier cylinder head, low-weight crankshafts and sodium-filled exhaust valves. Twin-scroll turbocharging produced high boost pressure, and direct petrol injection ensured precisely controlled fuel supply, while fully variable valve control, based on the BMW Group’s VALVETRONIC technology, helped to maximise engine responsiveness and efficiency. For the first time on a MINI, it featured an individually adjustable coilover suspension, which allowed ride height to be lowered by up to 20 millimetres. The front shock absorbers were mounted upside down in the tube, with the piston rod pointing down, in order to increase longitudinal and lateral stiffness. The racing-derived sports brake system, featured six-piston fixed-calliper disc brakes, vented at the front. The front discs are 330 millimetres in diameter and 25 millimetres thick, with 280 x 10 mm discs at the rear. Thanks to weight reduction measures, the DIN unladen weight of the model was 1,160 kilograms. As a result, the model has shaved a whole 18 seconds off its predecessor’s best lap time during testing on the Nürburgring North Loop.

The car accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.3 seconds and could reach a top speed of 242 km/h (150 mph).V

Visually, the car was only available in the exclusive colour Thunder Grey metallic, with red for the edging round the bonnet opening as well as for the exterior mirror caps and the side air intakes in the front apron. John Cooper Works insignia appeared on the lower air intake and the tailgate while there were “GP” badged side stripes running between the front and rear wheel arches. The standard specification of the MINI John Cooper Works GP included xenon headlights in black shells, foglamps, sun protection glazing, air conditioning, DSC with special GP mode, and a Sport button. The car also featured aerodynamic body parts like the large front and rear aprons, side sills, rear diffusor, underside panelling and the roof-edge spoiler (reducing lift forces at the rear axle by 90 per cent).