We're not sure if it will be called the Mini Traveller or the Mini Clubman, but our exclusive spy video of this long-wheelbase Mini due in 2008 does reveal a couple of unique features you won't find on the redesigned 2007 Mini Cooper.
Most notable among the Clubman's new features are the split rear doors. The design was used on the numerous Mini Traveller concepts shown last year, but it was hard to tell if Mini was serious about putting such a design into production until now. As cool as the split doors look, we can't help but question how useful they'll be in tight quarters compared to a more traditional flip-up hatch. One thing is for sure, there will be more cargo space behind the swing-out doors as this Mini's longer wheelbase should open up considerable space in the cabin.
With rear seats that are actually usable, the Mini Clubman will also introduce another new design feature: clamshell side doors. By incorporating a smaller, reverse-opening door behind the standard side door, the Clubman will offer much easier access to the expanded second row. Although the prototypes in our pictures from Death Valley appear to show this clamshell setup on both sides of the car, it will most likely come on the passenger side only. Logical speculation by the Mini mavens at Motoringfile.com points toward issues with the fuel filler neck on the driver side, not to mention the additional complexity and weight an extra door on both sides would add to a car known for being lightweight and nimble.
One aspect of the Clubman that isn't in dispute is the drivetrain. Like the recently unveiled 2007 Mini Cooper and Cooper S, the Clubman will use four-cylinder engines and six-speed transmissions. Base Clubmans will use the normally aspirated 1.6-liter with 120 horsepower while the high-performance "S" model gets a turbocharger which boosts power to 175 horses. Manual transmissions will be standard and a paddle-shifted automatic optional.
Although "Clubman" is the expected name for now, trademark issues may force a name change before its official debut next year. Sales in the U.S. aren't expected until 2008.
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Most notable among the Clubman's new features are the split rear doors. The design was used on the numerous Mini Traveller concepts shown last year, but it was hard to tell if Mini was serious about putting such a design into production until now. As cool as the split doors look, we can't help but question how useful they'll be in tight quarters compared to a more traditional flip-up hatch. One thing is for sure, there will be more cargo space behind the swing-out doors as this Mini's longer wheelbase should open up considerable space in the cabin.
With rear seats that are actually usable, the Mini Clubman will also introduce another new design feature: clamshell side doors. By incorporating a smaller, reverse-opening door behind the standard side door, the Clubman will offer much easier access to the expanded second row. Although the prototypes in our pictures from Death Valley appear to show this clamshell setup on both sides of the car, it will most likely come on the passenger side only. Logical speculation by the Mini mavens at Motoringfile.com points toward issues with the fuel filler neck on the driver side, not to mention the additional complexity and weight an extra door on both sides would add to a car known for being lightweight and nimble.
One aspect of the Clubman that isn't in dispute is the drivetrain. Like the recently unveiled 2007 Mini Cooper and Cooper S, the Clubman will use four-cylinder engines and six-speed transmissions. Base Clubmans will use the normally aspirated 1.6-liter with 120 horsepower while the high-performance "S" model gets a turbocharger which boosts power to 175 horses. Manual transmissions will be standard and a paddle-shifted automatic optional.
Although "Clubman" is the expected name for now, trademark issues may force a name change before its official debut next year. Sales in the U.S. aren't expected until 2008.
See new Mini models
See future Mini models
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