Mini shows 2020 John Cooper Works GP flexing its muscles on the 'Ring

It's over 23 seconds faster around the 'Ring than its predecessor.

Mini is expanding its line-up in two different directions. On one hand, it's preparing to release its first volume-produced electric car. On the other hand, it's working on a range-topping hot hatch named John Cooper Works GP that will be faster and more powerful than any car the brand has made to date. The latter's teaser campaign continued with a batch of images showing it flexing its muscles on the Nürburgring.

We got a preview of the JCW GP at the 2017 Frankfurt auto show. The close-to-production concept looked more muscular than the standard two-door Hardtop it was based on thanks in part to a full body kit that added a deeper front bumper, wider fenders, and a massive roof-mounted wing. The teaser images confirm the wing stays, and that carbon fiber keeps weight in check.

Power will come from a four-cylinder engine -- most likely a 2.0-liter unit -- turbocharged to make over 300 horsepower. Other specifications such as transmission options remain under wraps. We expect front-wheel drive will come standard, meaning Mini will need to find a way to keep a prodigious amount of torque steer in check.

The previous John Cooper Works lapped the 'Ring in 8:23. Mini hasn't revealed the new model's time, but it hinted the hot hatch effortlessly goes around the Green Hell in under eight minutes, which is a significant improvement.

Mini will continue testing the John Cooper Works GP over the following months, notably on race tracks. Production will start in 2020, according to the firm, and only 3,000 examples will be built. Pricing and American availability will be confirmed after its official debut.