Say what you want about body styles, but the MINI Cooper remains a definite head-turner. Its unique design ages beautifully, drawing smiles and admiration along the way.
The 2011 Clubman model I recently tested sure stands out from the pack. Imagine a miniature car with a long trunk that makes it look like a wagon, at least from the outside. Then add MINI's out-of-the-box styling and you get a pretty accurate picture. It's still a tiny little machine, but one dynamic enough to keep you glued to the steering wheel for hours on end.
Evolving style
By today's standards, the first-ever MINI was microscopic – and that may even be an understatement. The new-era MINI has obviously grown fatter not only to earn a legitimate place on the road but also to accommodate the needs of modern car buyers in terms of room and safety.
Actually, the difference between past and present is so radical that the wheels of the original were reportedly the same size as the brake discs of the current model. Please excuse me for not verifying that information, but you get the idea.
Too bad the extra girth doesn't add much room inside, though. After all, the Clubman is described as a wagon. Front occupants are still treated quite nicely (aside from the fact that the seat cushions are extremely low), but if they're just a little taller than average, those relegated to the back will suffer with their legs stuck.
Making things more painful is the limited access. Yes, the Clubman has five doors, but two of them are found in the back and replace the traditional liftgate. So that only leaves three to enter the cabin. Basically, there are two standard front doors and a much smaller third door with rear hinges on the passenger side. Prepare to contort your body as you sneak onto the back seat.
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| The Mini Cooper Clubman is still a tiny little machine, but one dynamic enough to keep you glued to the steering wheel for hours on end. (Photo: Mini) |
The 2011 Clubman model I recently tested sure stands out from the pack. Imagine a miniature car with a long trunk that makes it look like a wagon, at least from the outside. Then add MINI's out-of-the-box styling and you get a pretty accurate picture. It's still a tiny little machine, but one dynamic enough to keep you glued to the steering wheel for hours on end.
Evolving style
By today's standards, the first-ever MINI was microscopic – and that may even be an understatement. The new-era MINI has obviously grown fatter not only to earn a legitimate place on the road but also to accommodate the needs of modern car buyers in terms of room and safety.
Actually, the difference between past and present is so radical that the wheels of the original were reportedly the same size as the brake discs of the current model. Please excuse me for not verifying that information, but you get the idea.
Too bad the extra girth doesn't add much room inside, though. After all, the Clubman is described as a wagon. Front occupants are still treated quite nicely (aside from the fact that the seat cushions are extremely low), but if they're just a little taller than average, those relegated to the back will suffer with their legs stuck.
Making things more painful is the limited access. Yes, the Clubman has five doors, but two of them are found in the back and replace the traditional liftgate. So that only leaves three to enter the cabin. Basically, there are two standard front doors and a much smaller third door with rear hinges on the passenger side. Prepare to contort your body as you sneak onto the back seat.
 |
| The Clubman has five doors, but two of them are found in the back and replace the traditional liftgate. (Photo: Mini) |