The 2019 MINI Clubman packs a lot of car into a little space. While completely redesigned three years ago, the MINI retains the emotional appeal that has made the brand so beloved. Two powertrains are available in three trims, a 1.5L turbocharged 3-cylinder engine in the base trim makes 134 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. The S trim gets a turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder capable of 189 horses and 207 lb-ft of torque. A John Cooper Works edition features the same 2.0L turbocharged engine but tuned to output 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Both engines come with either a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission.
This Clubman is built on a platform like the MINIs 4-door Cooper, which means it comes with four full-size doors. The Clubman also carries on the tradition of rear center-split "barn doors." These doors open to reveal 17.5 cubic feet of cargo space. Fold the rear seats down, and it becomes 48 cubic feet.
The usual MINI look and feel carries through the interior. The large center pod doesn't have a speedometer anymore, but it does carry the vehicle's entertainment and navigation systems. Rounded corners, metal trim and toggle switches complete the MINI experience.
Standard equipment includes 16" alloy wheels with run-flat tires, heated mirrors and rain-sensing wipers. Inside the standard steering wheel is leather-wrapped, proximity key, a 6.5" screen as well as all the usual power accessories.
Standard safety equipment includes stability and traction control, tire pressure monitors, front and curtain airbags and a driver knee airbag.
The S trim gets the more powerful engine as well as 17" alloy wheels, a lip spoiler, fog lamps and carbon fiber interior trim.
Options allow a lot of customization in typical MINI fashion. No fewer than five alloy wheel choices are available, as are three different colored roof and mirror caps and both white and black bonnet stripes. A Premium package upgrades the audio system to a Harman/Kardon system, adds a panoramic moonroof and a proximity entry key system. A Technology package includes a rearview camera, a rear park distance control, Apple CarPlay and integrated navigation with traffic information. Heated and power-adjustable seats are available, as are LED fog lamps and adaptive headlamps.
BMW's Dynamic Damper Control, which allows the driver to modify suspension settings on the fly, is available, and is included in the Sport package.
Small-car Look With Big Room Inside
Strong Fuel Economy
Fun To Drive
Excellent Handling
Quirky "barn Door" Cargo Access
For 2019 the MINI Clubman receives a few additions and shuffling of features this year. Clubman models now sport an updated badging scheme as well as the capability for MINI Telematics/MINI Connected services with vehicle diagnostics, SOS requests, remote lock/unlock, stolen vehicle recovery, concierge and real time traffic data.
MINI has always brought a premium feel to the compact car segment. While the Clubman may be small by wagon standards, it offers a lot of personality. MINI is known for offering many customization options, meaning no two Clubman's are quite alike.
