When you step behind the wheel of a MINI, you first get impressed by the design, both inside and out. Then, after a few kilometers, the driving excitement takes over. The MINI, especially the more powerful S model, is like a real go-kart. Both the steering and throttle are extremely responsive.
Fans were understandably nervous when the company introduced the Cooper Clubman. It would have been easy to compromise the car's driving dynamics and character in the name of ergonomics, space and user-friendliness. However, that's not what happened. Engineers strived to make this larger though peculiarly-styled model just as fun to drive as other MINIs.
Mission accomplished!
A MINI for the family?
Some critics clearly expressed their displeasure regarding the elongated design of the Cooper Clubman, arguing that it looks too much like an old station wagon instead of a modern, typically-MINI hatchback.
Yet, no one can deny the bold and distinctive personality of the new model, whose exterior dimensions have been slightly increased. Standing 22-cm longer with a 7-cm gain in wheelbase, the Clubman is able to offer tangle-free access to the rear seats thanks to what the brand calls the "Clubdoor", which is nothing more than a small rear-hinged door on the passenger's side.
Having said that, designers focused a lot more on cargo versatility. First of all, the trunk is significantly larger than the regular MINI's. Also, access is made easier by the cupboard-style "Splitdoor", which replaces the traditional liftgate.
All these changes not only give the MINI a unique silhouette (look at the exaggerated roofline) but also a considerably roomier interior -- much to the delight (or relief?) of rear passengers and owners who often have stuff to carry.
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| When you step behind the wheel of a MINI, you first get impressed by the design, both inside and out. |
Fans were understandably nervous when the company introduced the Cooper Clubman. It would have been easy to compromise the car's driving dynamics and character in the name of ergonomics, space and user-friendliness. However, that's not what happened. Engineers strived to make this larger though peculiarly-styled model just as fun to drive as other MINIs.
Mission accomplished!
A MINI for the family?
Some critics clearly expressed their displeasure regarding the elongated design of the Cooper Clubman, arguing that it looks too much like an old station wagon instead of a modern, typically-MINI hatchback.
Yet, no one can deny the bold and distinctive personality of the new model, whose exterior dimensions have been slightly increased. Standing 22-cm longer with a 7-cm gain in wheelbase, the Clubman is able to offer tangle-free access to the rear seats thanks to what the brand calls the "Clubdoor", which is nothing more than a small rear-hinged door on the passenger's side.
Having said that, designers focused a lot more on cargo versatility. First of all, the trunk is significantly larger than the regular MINI's. Also, access is made easier by the cupboard-style "Splitdoor", which replaces the traditional liftgate.
All these changes not only give the MINI a unique silhouette (look at the exaggerated roofline) but also a considerably roomier interior -- much to the delight (or relief?) of rear passengers and owners who often have stuff to carry.
 |
| The Clubman is able to offer tangle-free access to the rear seats thanks to what the brand calls the "Clubdoor". |