Why is this so? Simple: the MINI is and has always been about style. Speaking of which, the Clubman blows my mind with spectacular lines and shapes.
As for the trunk, well, it may not be very large, but the taillight clusters do not steal precious cargo room, which is a plus. Bravo.
Aircraft-inspired cockpit
You can't talk about the MINI, any MINI for that matter, without mentioning the equally-unorthodox dashboard design. The gauges are huge – if you can't spot or read the speedometer, I'm afraid you're going blind and shouldn't be driving a car in the first place – and the whole layout mimics an aircraft cockpit.
On the flip side, all that emphasis on styling resulted in MINI designers overlooking or sacrificing ergonomics. The small buttons that control the radio and power windows, for instance, certainly don't fall into the 'user-friendly' category. Once again, the form prevails over the function.
I would be remiss if I didn't point out the high-quality materials and excellent fit and finish. The brand has made commendable strides in that respect over the past few years.
Four-wheel toy
Take a seat, fire up the engine and it won't be long before you realize that the MINI Clubman is first and foremost a four-wheel toy. The small four-cylinder proves lively and enthusiastic despite putting a mere 121 ponies at the driver's disposal – yet another example that big thrills don't necessarily involve big power.
Adding to the excitement is a razor-sharp steering that combines with competent brakes offering a unique pedal feel. Consequently, in spite of being slightly longer than regular MINIs, it also handles like a go-kart. Great response, docility and feedback.
Wrap-up
Of course the real question is: would you want the 2011 MINI Clubman parked in your driveway day in, day out? If you ask me, I've got to say yes. Granted, there are much more practical and cheaper alternatives out there (MSRP is set at $27,000), but just like those popular two-seat roadsters, the iconic Brit is one of the few genuinely fun-to-drive cars that you never grow tired of.
As for the trunk, well, it may not be very large, but the taillight clusters do not steal precious cargo room, which is a plus. Bravo.
 |
| The gauges are huge and the whole layout mimics an aircraft cockpit. (Photo: Mini) |
Aircraft-inspired cockpit
You can't talk about the MINI, any MINI for that matter, without mentioning the equally-unorthodox dashboard design. The gauges are huge – if you can't spot or read the speedometer, I'm afraid you're going blind and shouldn't be driving a car in the first place – and the whole layout mimics an aircraft cockpit.
On the flip side, all that emphasis on styling resulted in MINI designers overlooking or sacrificing ergonomics. The small buttons that control the radio and power windows, for instance, certainly don't fall into the 'user-friendly' category. Once again, the form prevails over the function.
I would be remiss if I didn't point out the high-quality materials and excellent fit and finish. The brand has made commendable strides in that respect over the past few years.
Four-wheel toy
Take a seat, fire up the engine and it won't be long before you realize that the MINI Clubman is first and foremost a four-wheel toy. The small four-cylinder proves lively and enthusiastic despite putting a mere 121 ponies at the driver's disposal – yet another example that big thrills don't necessarily involve big power.
Adding to the excitement is a razor-sharp steering that combines with competent brakes offering a unique pedal feel. Consequently, in spite of being slightly longer than regular MINIs, it also handles like a go-kart. Great response, docility and feedback.
Wrap-up
Of course the real question is: would you want the 2011 MINI Clubman parked in your driveway day in, day out? If you ask me, I've got to say yes. Granted, there are much more practical and cheaper alternatives out there (MSRP is set at $27,000), but just like those popular two-seat roadsters, the iconic Brit is one of the few genuinely fun-to-drive cars that you never grow tired of.
 |
| Take a seat, fire up the engine and it won't be long before you realize that the MINI Clubman is first and foremost a four-wheel toy. (Photo: Mini) |
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