2008 MINI Cooper Clubman Review reveals a new take on MINI.

Friday, July 25, 2008

2008 MINI Cooper Clubman Review

The Cooper is a sporty compact that debuted in 2002. It's based upon a British model with the same name that was popular and trendy in the 1960s. The second generation debuted in 2007, making it slightly longer, and beefing up the engine power. It was voted "North American Car of the Year" in 2003. The Clubman trim debuts this year with a longer wheelbase for more interior space.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The MINI Cooper Clubman is a more user-friendly take on this popular Eurocar. Inside, you'll find more passenger and cargo space, and with the new door configuration, access is easier than ever. It also includes a full list of safety features, to complement its already stunning reliability. With these new improvements, the Clubman is set to be a hit.

What's New For 2008:

The Clubman debuts for 2008. It features more interior room than the typical Cooper, and features a two-part fifth door instead of a hatch. It also adds a suicide door to the rear to provide better access to the back seat.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power information is not currently available. Other than a minor transmission issue, no major problems have been reported. It's been recalled twice due to tire pressure mislabeling and an inoperative flat tire indicator. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

Government crash test scores are not available. In IIHS tests, the MINI earned "Good" for the front, and "Acceptable" for the side and rear. Anti-lock brakes, brake assist, side airbags, tire pressure monitoring, and stability and traction control come standard.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ More cargo room
+ Full safety features
+ Still peppy

Cons
- Heavier than the regular MINI
- Poor visibility
- Passenger space still tight

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Honda Civic Coupe EX-L includes leather seats and 20 more hp, but lacks traction control and has less cargo space. The Volkswagen New Beetle S costs less and has 30 more hp, but has less cargo space and gets up to 9 fewer miles to the gallon. The Scion tC sport coupe costs a couple thousand less and has over more 40 hp and cruise control, but gets around 7-10 fewer miles to the gallon.

What Others Are Saying:

"Besides being a blast to drive, reasonably economical, and a cheeky fashion statement, the Clubman's most significant accomplishment is that its increased passenger comfort and extra cargo room make the Mini a real car for more people. For many buyers, this functionality will more than offset the few extra dollars and the few extra pounds the Clubman packs over the standard models." - Motor Trend

"Overall, the Clubman doesn't feel that different from a normal Mini. The extra length and wheelbase manifest themselves in slightly better high-speed stability, and ride comfort has been improved a bit over the standard car, but little else stands out. The rear seat is roomier but still slightly claustrophobic, the chassis is ever-so-slightly less willing to rotate in tight switchbacks, and rear visibility -- owing to the thick C-pillars and the central post created by the twin rear doors -- stinks." - Automobile Magazine

"The extra length and weight were perceptible on acceleration but quickly forgotten. The go-kart handling of a Cooper S Clubman manifested itself in curves and ducking in and out of downtown Madrid traffic. We were not enthralled with the fish-eye view from the side mirrors, and the turn-signal indicators don't disengage easily." - Car and Driver

Read more about the 2008 MINI Cooper Clubman at the MINI manufacturer web site.

Published on Monday, February 4, 2008 - Email to a friend

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