New Larger Clubman Maxes Out The MINI

The new Clubman joins the MINI line in 2016 as its largest model, a significant foot longer and 5 inches wider than the earlier version.

For this successful BMW owned revival brand based largely on quirky looks and upstart energy, the increased size clearly targets a wider audience.

Despite a youth market image – with a significant base of boomer buyers who remember the original Mini Cooper craze of the 60’s and 70’s – the larger size clearly addresses convenience issues like roomier rear seating and a full 15.1 cubic feet of cargo space.

But brash road manners, riding low and wide, with wheels way out on the four-corners, enhanced by an optional manual transmission, give this larger model significant fun-to-drive appeal.

If the base $25,000 edition with the 134-horsepower turbocharged three-cylinder engine is a bit pokey … the 189-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder option gives the MINI Clubman plenty of power while still delivering 26 – 28 mpg combined city and highway mileage, especially with the optional manual transmission.

With the full load of premium options… rearview camera, leather upholstery, sunroof, premium audio and navigation systems … this MINI maxes out at around $38,000.