For car lovers who appreciate a blend of unique design, fun driving dynamics, and everyday practicality, the MINI Cooper S Clubman stands out. This isn’t just another compact wagon; it’s a MINI through and through, imbued with the brand’s signature cheeky character and engaging performance, but with a more grown-up and spacious twist. From the moment you approach the Mini Clubman Cooper S, you realize this isn’t your average car. It’s a statement of individuality and a promise of driving pleasure.
Who is the MINI Clubman Cooper S For?
The MINI Clubman Cooper S appeals to a diverse range of drivers:
- Individuals and Couples: Perfect for those who want a stylish and fun car without sacrificing practicality.
- Small Families: Offers enough space for kids and cargo without feeling too large or cumbersome.
- MINI Upgraders: Drivers who love the classic MINI Cooper but need more passenger and cargo room.
- Design-Conscious Buyers: Those who appreciate unique and distinctive styling that sets them apart.
- Practical Drivers: People who need flexible cargo space for everyday errands, weekend trips, or hobbies.
- Driving Enthusiasts: Individuals who prioritize a sporty and engaging driving experience.
- All-Weather Drivers: Available with ALL4 all-wheel drive for enhanced confidence in various conditions.
- European Car Fans: Buyers who are drawn to the nostalgic charm and European heritage of the MINI brand.
MINI Cooper S Clubman Pricing and Value
When considering the MINI Cooper S Clubman, it’s important to understand its pricing within the premium compact wagon segment:
- Base Price (Starting MSRP): Approximately $24,100 (for the standard Clubman model).
- Model Driven (as tested): Around $35,850 (MINI Cooper S Clubman ALL4 with Tech Package).
- Fully Optioned (Estimated): Potentially reaching $40,350+ with all available packages and features.
While the starting price is competitive, adding options and packages can quickly increase the final cost. However, the MINI Clubman Cooper S offers a unique blend of style, performance, and features that justify its price point for many buyers. It delivers a premium experience that goes beyond just transportation.
Size and Practicality: Still MINI, But More Spacious
The MINI Clubman Cooper S successfully expands on the traditional MINI formula without losing its core DNA. It’s larger than the standard MINI Cooper, providing significantly more interior space, but it retains the brand’s compact footprint and agile handling. This makes it an ideal choice for those who need more practicality without sacrificing the fun-to-drive character that MINI is known for.
The increased dimensions translate into a more comfortable cabin, especially for rear passengers. Headroom is generous thanks to the Clubman’s boxier roofline, and the cargo area is surprisingly spacious and versatile. A clever under-floor storage compartment adds extra space for keeping items out of sight, perfect for groceries or personal belongings.
In terms of driving and parking, the MINI Clubman Cooper S feels comparable to a compact sedan. It’s easy to maneuver in city environments and park in tight spaces, despite its increased size compared to other MINI models. However, the low-slung MINI design does have some minor drawbacks. The lower ride height can sometimes make it challenging to see over taller vehicles or spot low-lying objects.
One aspect to be aware of is the potential for blind spots due to the Clubman’s design, particularly the rear door frames. While a rearview camera is helpful, the absence of blind spot monitoring in the 2017 model is a point to consider.
Driving Modes: Tailoring the Experience to Your Needs
The MINI Cooper S Clubman offers selectable driving modes that allow you to customize the car’s performance and fuel efficiency to match your driving style and conditions. This versatility is a significant advantage, making the Clubman adaptable to various situations.
- Sport Mode: Engages the car’s sporty side, providing quicker throttle response, sharper steering, and a more aggressive engine and transmission mapping. Ideal for spirited driving and maximizing fun.
- Green Mode: Prioritizes fuel efficiency by optimizing engine and transmission settings for economy. Throttle response is softened, and the car encourages a more relaxed driving style to save fuel.
- Mid Mode: The default setting, offering a balance between performance and efficiency. Suitable for everyday driving, providing a comfortable and confident ride without sacrificing too much responsiveness or fuel economy.
The availability of a 6-speed manual transmission in the MINI Cooper S Clubman is a rare and welcome feature in this segment, further enhancing its appeal to driving enthusiasts. It provides a more engaging and connected driving experience for those who prefer manual control.
Interior Design: A Playful and Premium Cabin
The interior of the MINI Cooper S Clubman is a testament to MINI’s design philosophy – playful, distinctive, and surprisingly premium. The circular motif, inspired by the MINI logo, is prevalent throughout the cabin, from the central infotainment display to the steering wheel controls and even the door handles. This cohesive design language creates a unique and instantly recognizable MINI interior.
The materials used in the cabin are of high quality, contributing to a premium feel. The layout is driver-focused and ergonomically sound, with controls that are easy to reach and use. The infotainment system, while visually distinctive, is also user-friendly and feature-rich.
Unique Split Rear Doors: Enhanced Cargo Access
One of the most distinctive and practical features of the MINI Clubman Cooper S is its split rear doors, often referred to as “barn doors.” Instead of a traditional liftgate, the Clubman uses two side-hinged doors that open outwards. This design offers several advantages:
- Easier Loading in Tight Spaces: The side-hinged doors require less vertical clearance than a liftgate, making them easier to use in garages or parking lots with low ceilings.
- Convenient for Smaller Items: You can open just one door to quickly access the cargo area for smaller items, without having to open the entire hatch.
- Full Cargo Area Access: When fully opened, the split doors provide unobstructed access to the entire width of the cargo opening, making it easier to load wide or bulky items.
This unique rear door design is not only visually distinctive but also adds a layer of practicality that sets the MINI Clubman Cooper S apart from conventional wagons.
Value Proposition: Premium Features at a Competitive Price
The MINI Cooper S Clubman offers a compelling value proposition in the premium compact wagon segment. While the price can increase with options, the base model is competitively priced, and even well-equipped versions offer a good balance of features, performance, and style for the money.
Standard and available features like heated leather seats, a user-friendly infotainment system, rearview camera, and ample cargo space contribute to a premium experience. However, it’s worth noting that some advanced safety features, such as blind spot monitoring and lane departure warning, were not available on the 2017 model.
Run-Flat Tires and Peace of Mind
The inclusion of run-flat tires on the MINI Cooper S Clubman is a significant benefit, providing added peace of mind and convenience. Run-flat tires allow you to continue driving for a limited distance and speed even after a puncture, eliminating the immediate need to change a tire on the side of the road.
While run-flat tires offer this advantage, it’s important to be aware of their potential drawbacks. They can sometimes provide a slightly firmer ride compared to conventional tires, and replacement costs can be higher. However, the added safety and convenience they provide are valuable, especially for drivers who prioritize safety and want to avoid the hassle of roadside tire changes.
What We Loved About the MINI Cooper S Clubman:
- Engaging and Sporty Driving Dynamics: A true MINI driving experience with responsive handling and enjoyable performance.
- Comfortable and Heated Front Seats: Premium comfort for driver and front passenger.
- Unique Logo Puddle Light: A clever and stylish MINI detail.
- User-Friendly Infotainment System: Intuitive and feature-rich multimedia experience.
- Standard Rearview Camera: Enhanced visibility and safety when reversing.
- Practical Split Rear Doors: Unique and convenient cargo access.
- Versatile Cargo Area with Storage Bin: Ample and well-organized cargo space.
- Attractive Digital Blue Metallic Color: A stylish and eye-catching exterior finish.
- Generous Rear Passenger Space: Surprisingly spacious rear legroom and headroom for a compact wagon.
- Easy-to-Fold Rear Seats: Enhanced cargo versatility and flexibility.
- Run-Flat Tires: Added safety and convenience in case of a flat tire.
- Fuel-Efficient Green Driving Mode: Helps to maximize fuel economy when desired.
Things to Consider About the MINI Cooper S Clubman:
- Low Ground Clearance: Requires caution on uneven surfaces and in deep snow.
- Fuel Economy: While decent, not class-leading, especially in city driving.
- Regular Fuel Required: No need for premium fuel, which is a cost-saving benefit.
- Included Maintenance and Roadside Assistance: Valuable benefits for the first few years of ownership.
- Warranty Coverage: Standard 4-year/50,000-mile warranty provides peace of mind.
Final Verdict: The MINI Cooper S Clubman – A Fun and Functional Choice
The 2017 MINI Cooper S Clubman is a compelling option for drivers seeking a stylish, sporty, and practical compact wagon. It successfully blends the iconic MINI driving experience with increased versatility and cargo space. While it may not be the most spacious wagon in its class, it stands out with its unique design, engaging driving dynamics, and premium features. If you prioritize driving enjoyment and appreciate distinctive European styling, the MINI Cooper S Clubman is definitely worth considering.
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