MINI Clubman (07 on) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 21 April 2009
The MINI Clubman is a more practical alternative to the standard hatchback. It's longer and offers more legroom for rear passengers along with extra boot space. It also packs some neat design touches including spilt rear doors, a dual-level boot floor and a single ‘clubman’ side door for easier access into the rear seats. But despite the extra space this is not an ideal family car – the rear is cramped and luggage room is still limited. However, it retains the exciting and engaging driving nature of the standard MINI - so it's a shame that it also shares the same miserly standard equipment tally. Alternative estates may be bigger, however for those that want a MINI but are put off by its limited practicality - the Clubman makes great sense.
4 out of 5

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2.5 out of 5

Buying new

The MINI is a very desirable car and dealers aren't forthcoming with discounts or offers. It's pretty much essential to choose one of the optional packs - either Pepper or Chili. The cheaper Pepper pack gives you a leather steering wheel, front foglights, floor mates, an on-board computer, Bluetooth and a flat load boot floor while the Chili adds to this with passenger seat height adjustment, sports seats, climate control, a sports steering wheel and half leather upholstery. Most importantly, it makes selling on far easier. When first on sale demand is likely to be high for the Clubman so negotiating discounts is likely to be tough. The less-desirable diesel will offer the best chances here, especially given its premium over the petrol Cooper. Correctly specifying the car is critical. Go for the Chilli and Pepper packs to ensure good resale value later.

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3 out of 5

Buying used

There are plenty of Clubmans on the used market and nearly every one is different, giving you plenty of choice to get the car you want. The Cooper is the most popular one around and comes pretty well equipped, but avoid any cars without either the Chili or Pepper packs. Before January 2009 air conditioning wasn't standard on any model so make sure any potential purchase has it fitted. Most new buyers opt for the tlc servicing package which covers the car for five years (or 50,000 miles) of servicing and can be transferred to a new owner.

  • Boot/Load Space MINI Clubman (07 on)
  • Interior MINI Clubman (07 on)

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See 170 used MINI Clubmans for sale, starting at £7,710

4.5 out of 5

Selling

The MINI continues to prove to be one of the most popular small cars on sale so demand is always high. Clubmans fitted with a good range of options (including either the Chili or Pepper packs) and tlc packages will sell quickly.