Mini Coopers are iconic cars that are known for their small and unique designs. The 2011 MINI Clubman which first joined the team in 2008 continues this Cooper tradition through its unique styling, fun-to-drive handling, and individuality.
The space issue associated with Mini Coopers is properly addressed by the Clubman by providing bigger dimensions- 10 inches longer to be exact resulting to a 50% increase in storage capacity and 2.5 inches more in terms of rear-seat legroom. Rear doors also give better rear seat access and easier cargo loading and unloading.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Compact Hatchback | Base Price: $21,800.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gallons (50 liters) | MPG: 28 city / 35 hwy |
| Length: 155.9 in. (395 cm) | Width: 66.3 in. (168 cm) |
| Height: 56.1 in. (142 cm) | Wheel Base: 100.3 in. (254.7 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 2712 lbs (1230 kg) | Ground Clearance: NA |
| Luggage Capacity: 9.2 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 people |
| Engine: 16-valve DOHC inline-4 | Displacement: 1.6 liters |
| Horsepower: 121 HP | Max RPM: 6000 RPM |
| Torque: 114 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Manual |
| 0-60 mph: 8.9 seconds | Top Speed: 126 mph |
| Option:Cooper S Clubman | MSRP: $25,500; MPG: 27 city / 35 hwy |
The additional space, although small by some people’s standard, is enough to make the Clubman the Big Man on the Block, at least as far as Mini Coopers go.
The 2011 Clubman has been given minor modifications in the form of a slight increase in power output, steering change to reduce torque steer under hard acceleration, and a slight change in the car’s exterior and interior make up. Additionally the 2011 model has a reworked radio controls and added sound insulation. HD and satellite radio are now standard while adaptive headlights are offered as an option.
Performance
The 2011 Clubman base model has a 1.6L in-line 4 engine that cranks 121hp power and 114 lb-ft of torque with a six-speed manual transmission, and a six-speed automatic with manual shift control as an option. The Clubman S packs a turbocharged version that gives 181hp and 177lb-ft of torque. Moreover, the John Cooper Works model is able to put out an impressive 208hp and 192lb-ft of torque.
Mini Cooper is saying that the Clubman base model with manual transmission will accelerate from 0-60mph in 8.9 seconds, while the automatic version will do this in 10.2 seconds. The Clubman S is decidedly faster reaching 60mph in just 6.8 seconds or 7.1 seconds for the automatic. JCW model does this in 6.5 seconds.
A manual base Clubman has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg in city driving and 35 mpg in highway driving or 31 mpg combined. Automatic version gives a 27/36/30 fuel consumption rate. The S variant’s fuel consumption is pegged at 27/36 for manual and 26/34 for automatic, while the John Cooper Works model’s is 25/33.
Interior & Exterior
The MINI Clubman is a two-door hatchback with four seats. It features a passenger-side reverse-opening door. Instead of a rear lift gate as what can be found in regular Minis, the Clubman has a pair of outward-swinging doors at the back.
Available for the Clubman are three trim levels: the base Clubman, Cooper Clubman S and John Cooper Works.
The base Clubman has 15-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, keyless entry, full power accessories, cruise control, leather wrapped tilt-and-telescoping multifunction steering wheel, trip computer, six-speaker audio system, HD and satellite radio, auxiliary jack as standard offerings.
On the other hand, the Clubman S has a more powerful engine, dual exhausts, firmer suspension tuning, alloy pedals, sport seats, fog lights, and run-flat 16-inch wheels. The John Cooper Works variant has even more power, 17-inch wheels, Brembo brakes, and cloth upholstery.
Various options for upgrade are available like a 10-speaker Harman Kardon surround sound audio system, keyless ignition/entry, Bluetooth and iPod interface among others.
Safety & Reliability
ABS, front seat side airbags, curtain airbags, and stability control are all standard. Stopping distance has been measured at 112 feet.
The 2011 Clubman is protected by Mini Cooper’s four year/50,000 basic warranty.
Pros & Cons
The Clubman’s biggest asset is still the fact that it has the Mini Cooper pedigree, because no matter what one may say about the car, there are hordes of fans of this marque out there. Simply put, some people will buy the Clubman because it is a Mini Cooper.
On its own merits, The 2011 Clubman is immensely fun to drive and it is roomier than the regular Cooper.
It also boasts of excellent fuel economy and its highly customizable Retro British style that features modern BMW engineering and design is surely a plus for this car.
While the Clubman is indeed roomier than a regular Cooper, the added room may still not be enough for most people.
Additionally, the suspension system may be a bit stiff for some and it tends to be quite noisy on the highway.
Some of the car’s interior controls are not so great either, as well as its base stereo which tends to be weak.
Competition
People interested in the 2011 MINI Clubman may also look at other cars like the Mazdaspeed 3 or Audi 3 (MSRP $27,270; 21 city / 30 hwy) as a basis for comparison.
The Mazdaspeed 3 (MSRP $23,700; 18 city / 25 hwy) in particular may deserve closer scrutiny as it has more power while still offering that extra space at a lesser price.
Ironically, the Clubman’s biggest competition may come from its own backyard- the 2011 Mini Countryman.
Although not the roomiest car in the market, the Clubman marries unique styling with superb and reliable performance.
Overall Rating
76 out of 100
What others say:
“A big-bodied extrovert, the 2011 MINI Cooper Clubman’s the most desirable MINI for anyone beyond their single stage of life.”Car Connection
“Minis turn on a dime with outstanding steering response.”Consumer Guide
“The 2011 Mini Cooper Clubman has all the personality and fun of the standard Mini Cooper, along with added space and practicality.”Edmunds
“Like its stablemates, the 2011 Mini Cooper Clubman offers subtle exterior styling changes, slight bumps in power from its two available engines and the addition of HD and satellite radio to the list of standard features.”KBB
