zzdcar
Home
/
Reviews
/
Automobile information
/
Mini Clubman (2019) Launch Review
Mini Clubman (2019) Launch Review-July 2024
2023-12-14 EST 02:30:35

We've put the updated Mini Clubman through its paces on the spectacular roads of Mpumalanga. Also inthe mix was the John Cooper Works derivative, which deliverseye-widening performance… along with boatloads of attitude.

The Mini Clubman elevates the definition of "niche model" to an entirely newlevel and, whereas the concept of a van/estate Mini may not be to everyone's taste, the cabinet-doored Clubman is unlike anything else on our roads. As it stands, the Mini portfolio comprises a diverse selectionof models…There really is a Mini for everyone:traditionalists can opt for the 3-or 5-doorhatchback, or the cheeky, stylish convertible, or,ifpracticality is high on theirlist of requirements, the Countryman. But what if you want to broadcast your individualism?Well, for that, there's the Clubman!

What has changed?

These Union Jack tail lights may be an extra-cost option, but they're really funky.

The Clubman's life-cycle updates are subtle; they include a new-look front end with a redesigned radiator grille, LED headlights, plus LED fog- andtail lamps(the latter of which can be ordered with a Union Jack motif). There are new colours available (such as the Indian Summer red shownhere), plus new alloys, a sports suspension (which lowers the carby 10 millimetres) and, on the inside, updated finishes and leather trim.

At launch,there are 3 derivatives available:a Cooper, Cooper S and, for those who crave compellingperformance, a John Cooper Works version, but more on therange-topper later. All versionsare equipped with automatic transmissions and feature turbocharged petrol engines. The Cooper hasa 1.5-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine with 100 kW and 220 Nm. This may be an entry-level motor, but its performance is more than adequate (Mini claims a 0-100 kph sprint time of 9.2 seconds for the Cooper). By virtue of being a 3 cylinder mill, it happens to emit a pleasingly rorty exhaust note.

The Cooper S, meanwhile, features a 2.0-litre 4-pot engine and it's decidedly faster, courtesy of its 141 kW and 280 Nm outputs (it'll hit 100 kph from standstill in about7.2 seconds, which is brisk). At the top of the pile is the Clubman JCW with a 2.0-litre turbocharged motor churning out 225 kW and 450 Nm. The first 2 derivatives are front-wheel driven, but the JCW features all-wheel drive and will reportedly scoot to 100 kph in 4.9 seconds.

The key differentiator ofthe Mini Clubman is its outlandish 6-door bodyshell–this is no run-of-the-mill compact hatchback. You gain access to the load bayvia2 split doors, which makesloading/unloading itemssimple. There's a modicum of practicality: the claimed luggage capacity is 360 litres, which can be expanded to 1 250 litres, but despite its van-like packaging, the driving position is still "quintessentially Mini", soyou sit quite low.

The Clubman's cabin is funky, modern and well assembled.

What is it like to drive?

Having recently driven the 3-door and 5-door Mini hatches, we were pleasantly surprised by the Clubman Cooper S' ride quality. Its suspension feels comparatively softer (in other words, more pliant and comfortable over indifferent road surfaces), but without losing that addictive driving feel thatMini fanatics know and love. What's more, driver involvement is the order of the day: the Mini begsto be hustledalong. In an era where near autonomy is being touted as the motoring future, it's refreshing to get behind the wheel of a car that encourages playfulness and performseagerly.

The Clubman is a touch softer compared to the Hatch, but it doesn't lose any of the enthusiastic driving traits.

Our driving route includedspectacular driving roads in and around the Sabie/Graskop/Lydenburg area. On this melange of fast, sweeping bends, the Cooper S felt right at home;its 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine fizzedaway merrily – what an eager-to-pleasemotor it is – and it deliveredplenty of in-gear shove to get past the slow-moving logging trucks, which are so plentiful in the area. The brakes are more than up to the task of performing sudden deceleration manoeuvres, especially when you come through a corner only to find yet anotherlogging truck climbing a hill at walking pace.

The middle-of-the-range Clubman's steering is direct, with decent feel andit doesn't feel like you're going to slide unless you're really careless. We donote, however, that the ride can be a touch firm if your vehicle is equipped with the larger optional alloy wheels, so be mindful when configuring your vehicle. Road noise will also rear its head if you go for the larger wheels, but this really depends on your pace… and the quality of the tarmac.

The Clubman JCW

The view most people will see of the Clubman JCW. It's a proper little tarmac weapon.

We were duly impressed by the performance of the Cooper S, but if you wantsome real zest (and thrusting performance) with a macho image, then it's best you look to the JCW. Packing a thumping 225 kW/450 Nm 2.0-litre turbo motor shared with the new BMW M135i xDrive, this is the most hardcore iteration of the Clubman. Mini claims a sub-5-second 0-100 kph time, which we tried out a few times with the factory-fitted launch control.

Come to a stop, engage the Sport driving mode and traction control setting, depress the brake and accelerator pedals and, once the revs build, let go ofthe former. The Clubman JCW will scootoff the lineasits 8-speed transmissionriflesthrough the ratios… It feels particularly eager in 1st and 2nd gear, and would surely prove a good rival to something like a Volkswagen Golf R.The best part of the JCW Clubman is the all-wheel-drive system, which provides incredible levels of grip. The mere fact it's there encourages you to press onwithout fear that the car will become unruly.

The cabin of the Clubman JCW; the sporty seats look and feel the part.

Summary

We spent the majority of our time on the launch with the Clubman Cooper S; it's arguably the pick of the litter. While we would have liked to spend more time with the JCW, we anticipateit would be devastatingly quick in the hands of a capable driver on a mountain pass(we're keen to give it a full review soon). The Clubman comes with all the convenience features you'd expect at over R500 000 and you can go to town with additional packages and personalisation options. It's a fun and quirky vehicle, but it still does the fundamentals right, and we like those at Cars.co.za…

Should you buy one? Well, Mini is a niche brand at itisand the Clubman is even more niche (if that was even possible). It's not going to be everyone's favourite Mini, but if youwantto live that "Mini lifestyle" to the fullest and don't need to go the Countryman route, then give "the 6-door" a second look. We think you'd be pleasantly surprised by its versatility and practicality; besides, ithaslostnothingof its endearing, playful nature.

The Clubman is a fun and funky addition to the Mini family, with a surprisingly useful load area.

Mini Clubman Price in South Africa (November 2019)

Clubman Cooper R433 000

Clubman Cooper S R511 000

John Cooper Works Clubman R642 000

Related content:

Mini JCW GP Smashes the ‘Ring

New JCW Clubman most powerful Mini yet

All-Electric Mini Cooper SE for SA in 2021

Comments
Welcome to zzdcar comments! Please keep conversations courteous and on-topic. To fosterproductive and respectful conversations, you may see comments from our Community Managers.
Sign up to post
Sort by
Show More Comments
Automobile information
Are BMW 5 Series good cars?
Are BMW 5 Series good cars?
  The BMW 5 Series stands as a well-regarded car in the automotive world, earning praise from both industry experts and owners alike. It has carved a niche for itself by blending performance, luxury, and cutting-edge technology. Lets delve into the key factors behind the BMW 5 Series acclaim:   Performance: The BMW 5 Series offers a spectrum of engine choices, including...
Jul 9, 2025
Are BMW X6 reliable?
Are BMW X6 reliable?
  the BMW X6 was a bit of a mixed bag, as is the case with any vehicle. It all boils down to factors like the model year, how well its been taken care of, and the driving conditions its been through. Since the BMW X6 falls into the luxury SUV category, you might find that its maintenance and repair costs...
Jul 9, 2025
Are BMW X4 good cars?
Are BMW X4 good cars?
  As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, the BMW X4 is generally well-regarded as a luxury compact crossover SUV. However, whether a BMW X4 is a good car for you depends on your specific preferences, needs, and priorities. Here are some factors to consider:   Pros:   Performance: The BMW X4 is known for its sporty and engaging driving dynamics....
Jul 9, 2025
Are BMWs expensive to fix?
Are BMWs expensive to fix?
  Yes, BMWs are generally associated with higher maintenance and repair costs compared to non-luxury vehicles. Several factors contribute to the perception of BMWs being expensive to fix:   High-Quality Parts: BMWs use high-quality materials and components, and genuine BMW parts tend to be more expensive than generic alternatives. Advanced Technology: BMW vehicles are equipped with advanced technology and electronics. Repairing or...
Jul 9, 2025
Can BMW i3 run on gas only?
Can BMW i3 run on gas only?
  The BMW i3 is primarily an electric vehicle EV designed to operate on electric power stored in its high-voltage lithium-ion battery pack. However, some versions of the BMW i3 are available with an optional range extender, often referred to as the REx model. The range extender is a small internal combustion engine that serves as a generator to produce electricity,...
Jul 9, 2025
Can a BMW i3 charge at a Tesla charging station?
Can a BMW i3 charge at a Tesla charging station?
  BMW i3 vehicles are not designed to charge directly at Tesla Supercharger stations. Tesla Superchargers use a proprietary charging technology that is specific to Tesla vehicles. Tesla vehicles use a unique charging connector and communication protocol that is not compatible with other electric vehicles, including the BMW i3.   The BMW i3 typically uses the Combined Charging System CCS or Type...
Jul 9, 2025
Copyright 2023-2025 - www.zzdcar.com All Rights Reserved