What is it? The Mini has maxed out with the new Mini Clubman, shown here backing out to its Los Angeles debut. This bigger version of the Mini Cooper is 9.45-inches longer and its wheelbase has grown 3.15 inches, but it’s still only a four-seater. There are two versions offered: the standard Clubman and the turbocharged Cooper S Clubman. Both have a 1.6-liter, 4-cylinder engine. The entry-level Clubman has 118 hp, with the Cooper S Clubman boasting 172 hp. The standard transmission is a 6-speed manual, with an optional 6-speed automatic.
The Clubman design includes an extended roofline, a two-piece split rear "barn" door to the trunk area, and an additional "Clubdoor" on the right side of the vehicle that can only be accessed when the front door is opened, easy access to the rear seat. This extended-length side door also doesn’t have an exterior handle and must be opened from the inside.
In order to save on fuel, there is a new Auto Start Stop function on all manual models that ensures that the engine automatically switches off whenever the car comes to a standstill, such as at a traffic light. It reactivates once the driver presses down on the clutch.
The base Clubman will start at $20,600, with the Clubman S beginning at $24,100.
When will it be available? February 2008.
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