Behind The Wheel - 2008 Mini Cooper Clubman

For those who could use more doors, more room and easier access than that of the current Mini the new 2008 Mini Cooper Clubman is a bit longer with a new third door for passenger entry and dual rear doors for low level cargo loading access.

The Clubman gets two powertrain choices: the naturally-aspirated 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 120 horsepower and 118 lb.-ft. of torque. The S powertrain offers up a turbocharged experience: 175 horsepower and 177 lb.-ft. of torque, which is way more than any little car really needs – but it sure is fun to have!

Transmission choices are a six-speed manual or automatic. Like the powertrain, the Clubman’s safety, braking, steering and suspension setups are the same as the smaller Mini.

Ten inches longer at the wheelbase makes for significantly more room. Legroom has grown three inches and the rear cargo room has also been notably expanded. The Mini Cooper Clubman should quickly become the preferred Mini for people who regularly have back seat passengers or have a need to haul stuff.

As with the hatchback, the Clubman hugs the road and zips around corners beautifully. All models are aided by stability control, corner brake control and hill-start assist, then on the Cooper S you’ve also got limited-slip differential as an option. Due to the Clubman’s extra inches in length its weight composition has altered slightly making it behave more like a rear-wheel-drive car. It’s a fun drive with lots of personality.

Safety in the clubman is excellent and aside from all the electronic aids, it also turns in to a fully inflatable cushion should you ever have the misfortune of rolling it. Among its six airbags are the curtain variety which are mounted in the roof. When the Clubman senses a collision it also deactivates the central locking, switches off the fuel pump and activates the hazard warning lights.

Standard is a single-slot CD, electric door mirrors and front windows, remote control central locking and a height adjustable driver's seat.

Buyers will be faced with a several choices to personalize their own Clubman. There are 12 body colors and over 40 combinations of exterior paintwork depending on roof color and rear door frame.

Thoroughly revised with last year's introduction of the second generation Mini, the interior of the Clubman combines traditional Mini elements, like the large central speedometer, clear round dials and toggle switches, with a wide range of interior colors, trims, upholsteries and accessories to further personalize the car.

While the Clubman would never come close to replacing the original, it’s a perfect option for people who want the Mini vibe but with room to exhale. Bottom line is the Clubman gives you more functionality and room without losing its Mini Cooper identity.

We think 2008 is a prime market for a car like this not only for its forward thinking ecological strategies but also because Mini owners are now ready for a shake-up and the Clubman’s unique styling is just the nip and tuck many will have been looking for.