Clubman is the third model in the Mini range, joining the hatchback and convertible. (Mini photo) » More Photos
These are the first official pictures of the BMW Group's third new Mini variant, and the one you be waiting for if you like the Mini's chirpy looks, but dislike its lack of cabin and trunk space. This is the new Mini Clubman.
The Clubman has found its way from concept car to production reality in less than two years, after it was first revealed at the 2005 Frankfurt motor show. Riding on a 3.5in longer wheelbase than the Mini hatchback, the Clubman adds three more doors to the Mini's well-established look – one along the right-hand side and two at the rear.
At the back, the Clubman uses a pair of side hinged doors that open outwards. To highlight the unusual treatment at the rear, the frame around the rear doors is painted in the same color as the roof trim.
The car is 11in longer than a Mini hatchback overall, and that extra length means rear legroom has increased while trunk capacity goes up by 100 liters.
Clubman is the third model in the Mini range, joining the hatchback and convertible. (Mini photo) » More Photos
As fun to drive as any other Mini
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The Clubman will be sold in Europe with a choice of three existing four-cylinder engines. The Cooper S gets the turbocharged 1.6-liter direct injection unit producing 175hp and 177lb-ft, with a milder naturally-aspirated version with 120hp and 118lb-ft in the Cooper. Then there's the frugal 1.6-liter diesel, delivering 110hp and 177lb-ft in the Cooper D.
Like the rest of the Mini range from August, the Clubman will be offered with BMW's brake energy regeneration and stop/start functions. The standard six-speed manual gearbox has an optimal gearshift indicator to help save fuel.
At 1.25 tons the Clubman weighs some 160lb more than a standard Mini, but performance remains respectable; the Cooper S hits 60mph in 7.6sec.
Despite the Clubman's larger footprint, Mini claims it possesses all the dynamic qualities of its standard sibling. The MacPherson strut (front) and multi-link (rear) suspension receives unique spring and damper rates and more compliant bushes.
