Mini has officially taken the wraps off the all-new stretched Clubman model. The wagon version of BMW’s Mini has received quite a few upgrades for 2016 and the model is finally not as quirky as the first-gen one it replaces. Larger than the previous generation, the new 2016 Mini Clubman is placed in the company’s new lineup above the four/five-door version of the core Hardtop hatchback. It measures 10.9 inches longer and 2.9 inches wider than the Hardtop and rides on a wheelbase that is four inches longer. Although it bigger in size, but it has retained the overall shape of the outgoing model.
The biggest visible change comes in the form of conventional, full-sized, forward-hinged rear-doors that replace the suicide rear half-doors on the first gen model. The split tailgate doors have been carried over. However, it can be optionally operated hands-free to give access to 17.5 cubic feet of cargo space. The new Clubman shares the same platform with the latest Mini Hatch as well as BMW’s 2-Series Active Tourer. Engine choices are similar to those of the Mini hatchbacks. The base Cooper Clubman gets a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine with 134 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque (169 lb-ft with the overboost function). The sportier Cooper S Clubman will come with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, with 189 hp and 206 lb-ft of torque (221 lb-ft with overboost). Both models will feature a six-speed manual transmission as standard. A six-speed automatic is available on the Cooper, while the Cooper S gets an eight-speed auto. The new Mini Clubman will debut at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show in September, and go on sale in the U.S. in January 2016.
