WASHINGTON — Mini has been known for years as a small, fun-to-drive car, and the new larger Mini models let more people enjoy this British icon. Enter the Clubman — a wagon with real space for rear-seat passengers, and even some cargo space.
I thought for sure that this larger Mini S Clubman would be less fun than the smaller two-door version, mostly because this new Clubman is more competitive in size than before and close to the compact competition that offer similar hatch/wagons. But after a few miles behind the wheel, I was surprised that even this larger Mini is a hoot to drive.
The handling is very good; it’s one of the better front-wheel-drive cars out there. The ride can be firm over rough roads and it feels sportier also; maybe its extra weight taxes the 189 hp in some situations. The optional automatic does a good job of holding shifts while in the sports mode, but a manual transmission is standard and you save $1,750 if you don’t mind doing the shifting.
The Mini Clubman doesn’t come cheap. The S version starts around $28,000 and my loaded tester stickers at $40,800 — serious money for a compact hatch/wagon. But in this case, you get what you pay for.
The interior is top-notch, with heated sport seats upfront that hold you in place very well, and the comfort is pretty good also. The blue quilted leather seats look good, and it’s a nice change of pace from black, gray and tan.
In Mini fashion, there’s a large center circle screen that houses the NAV screen and radio functions. The appearance of the instrument cluster in front of the driver still has a bit of that Mini flair, but it’s toned down some. Don’t worry: Toggle switches are still used for some of the functions in the car.
Adults can use the rear seats with added leg and head room. Just don’t expect to fit three adults back there with great comfort. The cargo area behind the rear seats might not be the largest in the class, but it’s very useful, and the rear seats fold down for added space.
Luckily, with this redesign, they didn’t mess with the Mini look. It might be a more modern interpretation, but that fun smile-like look to the front end remains. It really puts you in a good mood just looking at it. The round headlights and the small hood scoop of the Cooper S version of this Clubman give a slightly more “macho” look.
For a large Mini, it’s still not very big. You do notice the extra length. The roof and mirrors in gray help break up the size a bit. The rear end is different: No lift-up hatch here; instead, there are barn doors that swing open much like a cargo van — I like that setup.
The new Mini Cooper S Clubman is a larger family size for 2016. It’s not cheap, but with its upscale interior and standout styling it’s the new grownup version of the funky little hatch, with better manners and the ability to bring the family along to motor.
Mike Parris is a member of the Washington Automotive Press Association. The vehicles are provided by STI, FMI or Event Solutions for the purpose of this review.
