With all the attention the new BMW 7 Series has been getting in advance of this week’s 2015 Frankfurt International Auto Show (IAA), the media may be shorting another world premiere from the BMW Group’s other consumer car brand. Mini will be presenting to the world the new Mini Clubman.
With the new Clubman and its larger interior space, versatility, driving properties, and new equipment features appearing on a Mini for the first time, Mini is entering the premium compact market segment. The emphasis is still on driving fun and a uniquely expressive design, but with a larger, more well-appointed car, especially with new technology, Mini is trying to shed its tiny car, entry-level image.
The Mini 3 door and Mini 5 door will also be on display at Frankfurt, as will the latest generation of the very sporty Mini John Cooper Works. Mini will also present their latest Mini Connected in-car infotainment services.
The new Mini Clubman premieres with four doors plus a split rear door, five seats, and a large interior. It is the largest of the new-generation Minis, being 10.6 inches longer and 3.5 inches wider than the Mini 5 door. When the rear seats with a 40:20:40 split are folded down, the car has room for 44 cubic feet of stuff.
Appearing for the first time on a Mini are the electric parking brake, the eight-speed Steptronic transmission, electric seat adjustment, and the optional Mini Yours Interior Styles with backlit door bezels. The Mini Excitement Package gets you LED interior and ambient lighting and the ability to project the Mini logo on the ground from the driver’s side exterior mirror. This feature caused a small bit of ridicule when it first appeared on BMWs, but perhaps Mini owners will embrace it, being the embracers of strange and wonderful Mini things that they are. Comfort Access will also be offered on the Clubman, including non-contact opening of the rear split doors.
When it hits the market, the new Mini Clubman will be available with three engine choices, all with Mini TwinPower turbochargers: A four-cylinder gasoline engine for the Mini Cooper S Clubman will generate 192 horsepower; the three-cylinder gasoline engine for the Mini Cooper Clubman will have 136 horsepower; and the new four-cylinder diesel in the Mini Cooper D Clubman will crank 150 horsepower.
Also on the Mini stand at Frankfurt will be the Mini Countryman with its four doors and large tailgate, and the sporty Mini Paceman, the first Sports Activity Coupe in the premium compact segment. The Paceman is available with ALL4 all-wheel drive as an option. All4 all-wheel drive is standard on the Mini John Cooper Works Countryman and Mini John Cooper Works Paceman.—Scott Blazey
[Photos courtesy of BMW AG.]
