2016 MINI Clubman Detailed in Official Videos
Because high-resolution photos are never enough, MINI is bringing us a series of videos showcasing their brand new model. Unfortunately there are no driving scenes, but the deeper dive into the model, and a comparison to its predecessors, is a welcome addition to the pictures we published this morning. We have to admit that seeing the barn-doors opening up automatically is pretty rad. We could watch this all day long.
<p>German publication “Auto Bild TV” posted a video on You Tube of the new Clubman. Obviously its in German but the commentator states that an 8 speed Auto will be available for the first time in a MINI. He says that he likes the look and what MINI did with the Clubman.</p>
<p>Auto Bild compares the Clubman (in length and space) to the Audi Sport Back.
Reviewer also states that the Clubman is a level up from the F56/F55 including interior finish and styling.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ofLJSb19qn0" rel="nofollow ugc">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ofLJSb19qn0</a></p>
<p>What’s the purpose of the flashing read beacon on top of the shark fin antenna?</p>
<p>It is the light for the alarm system in Europe. The U.S. won’t have it.</p>
<p>Ah, ok Thanks. I thought it was the placement of the new rear fog light 😉 or Aircraft Taxi beacon that would signal to others that power to the vehicle is on and engine is engaged.</p>
<p>It’s okay. A Golf is a better value; particularly the new Golf Sportwagen — an A3 without the frills compete with AWD.</p>
<p>but VW’s so boring styling-wise. Maybe I’m spoiled by “you-ification” but VW’s lack of interior choices and paint colors doesn’t excite me.</p>
<p>Is the automatic barn door opening a real feature or just some sort of misleading sfx?</p>
<p>MINI (at lest in the case of the Clubman) has has finally decided to offer a less cluttered interior design that is more in harmony with other German brands. This is a plus. I prefer the GTI interior since it not cluttered; a true example of form follows function. All the curls, swirls, and circular plastic interior decor have made the MINI interior looks cheap and comical. You can “you-ify” a VW in the aftermarket. The real issue has become price. Both the VW “R” and MINI JCW are overpriced IMHO. Admittedly, VW could amp-up its exterior design a bit.</p>
<p>The Golf is also too long for my garage!</p>
<p>Looks like it may be time to consider enlarging your garage.</p>
<p>No, but it’s a perfect time to eliminate the Golf Sport Wagon as a car choice! The garage is big enough for one R55 and one R56, plus a workshop. The F54 would just barely fit. And I could keep my workshop!</p>
<p>Ask Santa for a bigger garage … then consider getting a life! There’s more to life than cars and MINIs.</p>
<p>I guess the “more to life” dedicating oneself to being a troll.</p>
<p>Clubman: 168.3″ Long
GTI: 168.0″
Sportwagen: 179.6″</p>
<p>The size competitor to the Clubman looks to be the regular Golf/GTI, rather than the Sportwagen. I am considering all 3 as well, but I’m not holding my breath that the F54 will perform anywhere near the GTI, unfortunately… at least not without spending way more money for a JCW Clubby.</p>
<p>MINI sales will love this car. May need a bigger showroom though.</p>
<p>There is a plan to redesign the showrooms so they can be in line with the rebranding strategy.</p>
<p>strategy, bradegy … why make this such a seriously boring discussion. It’s only a freakin’ car, dude!</p>
<p>¯_(?)_/¯</p>
<p>Maybe he’s lost? He realizes this is a car blog right?</p>
<p>The back end seems less objectionable in the video</p>
<p>When does the F56 get the Air Curtains and Air Breathers?</p>
<p>It actually looks better proportioned with all of the doors open. ;-)</p>
<p>I was lucky enough to sit in the new Clubman. I have to say, the fit and finish, size and over all appearance are awesome.
Can’t wait to lease one.</p>
<p>Does it just have to say C L U B M A N across the back?!?!?!?!</p>
<p>I had a Clubman S and I loved it. I traded it to get the 4 doors and a little more ground clearance with the Countryman. The AWD is nice, too. However, I miss the low throw when I have to put kayaks on top and the hatch on all other models will hit them. Only the barn doors avoid that.
I am also a fan of sportswagons. I like the lower height and more car-like driving with the extra storage. When this comes out I will consider trading my Countryman back in.</p>