2020 Mini Cooper Clubman JCW

Overview

Combining Mini's classic styling, a long-roof design, and John Cooper Works performance enhancements, the 2020 Cooper Clubman JCW is a rootin'-tootin' grocery getter from across the pond. A high-strung turbocharged four-cylinder, all-wheel drive, and Mini's trademark spry driving dynamics are all welcome additions to the staid station-wagon segment, and the JCW's racy styling elements do nothing to hide its performance potential. It won't haul as much as a Volvo V60 or clear rutted dirt roads like a Subaru Outback, but those cars don't offer as much driving enjoyment.

Where This Vehicle Ranks

#13 in Best Station Wagons for 2020

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13

Mini Cooper Clubman JCW

STARTING AT: $43,250

SHOP Cooper Clubman JCW

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What's New for 2020?

The Clubman JCW has received a big upgrade for 2020 that is aimed at improving performance: Its turbocharged four-cylinder engine has been bumped up from 228 horsepower to a stout 302. Last year's standard six-speed manual transmission has been discontinued—#SaveTheManuals!—and in its place is an eight-speed automatic; all-wheel drive is standard. Light tweaks to the Clubman JCW's exterior include a revised grille and minor changes to the front and rear bumpers; LED headlights and taillights are now standard.

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Pricing and Which One to Buy

The Cooper Clubman JCW represents a big investment for such a small car, so we'd take it easy with options. Upgrading to the Signature trim package adds 18-inch wheels, an adaptive suspension, a Harman/Kardon audio system, a panoramic sunroof, and an upgraded infotainment system with 6.5-inch touchscreen. Other than that, we'd leave well enough alone.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The JCW upgrade from the mid-range S model is nothing to scoff at: The S has a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 189 horsepower but the JCW is a beefier cut, with 302 horsepower. One of the benefits of choosing a Clubman out of the Mini lineup is that its longer wheelbase is more adept at handling bumps and other pavement imperfections than the smaller Cooper models, making it more comfortable for longer trips. That advantage disappears once the Clubman is tuned for performance by JCW, with its lowered and stiffened suspension that makes the ride brittle and less than pleasant as a daily driver. Steering is heavy and quick, and turn-in is precise, although it's not quite the go-karting experience we've come to expect from our time in other Minis.

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Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Despite the 2019 Mini Clubman JCW's performance potential, it still achieves decent fuel-economy numbers. The lower-powered 2019 model outperformed its EPA fuel-economy rating on our 200-mile highway fuel-economy test route by delivering a 32-mpg result, but we haven't tested the Clubman JCW with its new, more powerful turbo four.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Mini makes sure that its off-the-wall personality is consistent both inside and out. Although some might be turned off by the unconventional interior setup, there's no denying it stands out from the blandtastic stylings of the Volkswagen Golf SportWagen and the Subaru Outback. Interior materials are not up to snuff with the entry-luxury pricing, but part of that is addressed by its unique layout and offbeat design. Those who appreciate it will dig the aircraft-style toggle switches, the checkered-flag accents, the digital gas gauge, and the in-your-face circular infotainment surround. Those who aren't so easily amused will find frustration with the small, hard-to-read gauge cluster, the strangely placed infotainment rotary-knob controller, and the cheapo interior surfaces. What the Clubman gains in style points, it loses in practicality. The Clubman's side-hinged rear doors and fold-flat back seat present an easy space to load with cargo or luggage. However, this is a small car, and there's not a whole lot of room inside to handle said stuff. The cabin's cubbies are stingy with storage space for phones and such. However, a giant bin under the cargo-area load floor offers relief.

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Infotainment and Connectivity

Like the rest of the Clubman's equipment, the good infotainment stuff requires you to hand over the cash. With the Touchscreen Navigation package, buyers can equip their cars with Apple CarPlay capability, navigation, and an 8.8-inch touchscreen to replace the base 6.5-inch unit. The standard system comes equipped with voice controls and Bluetooth connectivity.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Neither the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration nor the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety have tested the Clubman's performance in crash tests; a host of driver-assistance features are offered but none are standard. Key safety features include:

• Available automated emergency braking
• Available forward collision warning
• Available adaptive cruise control

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Minis offer slightly better warranties than many other small cars. Only Volvo and sister brand BMW matches Mini's advantage of three years of complimentary scheduled maintenance.

• Limited warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
• Complimentary maintenance is covered for 3 years or 36,000 miles