MINI has released the latest version of its popular John Cooper Works Clubman which features all the upgrades already seen on the John Cooper Works hatch and convertible models.

These include the 231bhp engine with modified MINI TwinPower turbocharger, sports suspension and powerful braking system which gives clubman a 0-62 mph time of just 6.3-seconds and a top speed of 148 mph, but the engine upgrade is not at the expense of economy or emissions, with up to 41.5mpg on the combined cycle and CO2emissions down to 154 g/km.

Outwardly the new Clubman is more aggressive with new front and rear bumpers and rear wing which not only help reduce lift, but in the case of the front section, assist with the additional cooling requirements of the more powerful engine.

It also comes with alloy wheels and John Cooper Works badging which denote the top-of-the-range Clubman.

It comes with standard LED headlamps which are surrounded by a daytime driving light ring that also uses LED technology, the lower section of which is white and acts as the turn indicator. The horizontally arranged rear light units also comprise LED lamps.

For the first time the new Works Clubman combines it's most potent engine and offers its ALL4 all-wheel drive system.

The eight-speed Steptronic gearbox can be changed either automatically or manually via the shift selector or with paddles on the steering wheel. A launch control function enables the quickest possible acceleration away from rest.

Standard equipment includes air conditioning, Bluetooth hands-free telephone facility and electric parking brake, park distance control with sensors at the rear, cruise control with brake function, and comfort access - also enabling touch-less opening of the split doors by means of a foot movement under the rear apron.

The standard fit audio system is the radio MINIvisualboost including USB socket and operation via the MINI controller in the centre console, as well as the 6.5-inch colour screen in the central instrument fitted with a MINI navigation system.

It's on salenow, priced at £29,345 with the six-speed manual gearbox, and £30,945 with the eight-speed sports Steptronic transmission