2019 Mini Cooper Clubman / S

Overview

It may look more "maxi" than Mini, but the 2019 Mini Cooper Clubman offers sporty handling and peppy performance with the versatility of a station wagon. An updated 2020 Cooper Clubman is expected to go on sale by the end of 2019.

Engines, Ride, and Handling

The standard powertrain is a 134-hp turbocharged three-cylinder with front-wheel drive and either a six-speed manual or one of two automatics—a six- or an eight-speed; with the six-speed automatic, this engine pulled the Clubman to 60 mph in a leisurely 8.0 seconds at our test track. Clubman S models have a more potent 189-hp turbocharged four-cylinder and can be had with either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic; equipped with the eight-speed and front-wheel drive, the Clubman S zipped to 60 mph in a much quicker 6.6 seconds. All-wheel drive is optional on both models, but in our testing of an all-wheel-drive Clubman S, we recorded a disappointing zero-to-60-mph time of 7.3 seconds. The Clubman is one of the better-handling station wagons available today, thanks to Mini's trademark go-kartlike agility; the tradeoff for such athleticism is a ride that can be overly firm, particularly when driving over pockmarked pavement. For even more fun, check out the even hotter Clubman JCW model (reviewed separately).

Interior and Technology

Like the rest of the Mini lineup, the 2019 Clubman showcases Mini's quirkiness inside, with a style that is fun and a little funky. Even the base model comes nicely equipped with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a 6.5-inch infotainment touchscreen, and faux-leather upholstery. Moving up through the range adds luxury features such as genuine leather seats with heat, dual-zone automatic climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and navigation. With up to 48 cubic feet of cargo room, the Clubman offers far more utility than the smaller Cooper Hardtop, but not as much space for freight as larger station wagons such as the Volkswagen Golf SportWagen or the Volvo V60.