In its split-door configuration, the MINI Clubman harkens back to its famous predecessors: the Austin Mini Countryman, the Morris Mini Traveller, and the Mini Clubman Estate sold successfully between 1960 and 1982. These classic models were a source of inspiration for today’s MINI Clubman, a thoroughly modern car with state-of-the-art technologies and features. The potential offered by a creating a modern interpretation of this kind of vehicle was shown with the four Clubman concept cars.
And now the most important highlights of these concept cars are making their entry into series production in the form of the MINI Clubman.
The MINI Clubman design is reminiscent of its classic predecessors, with re-interpretations of the unique features of the classic models done in up-to-date design language featuring thoroughly modern function. Where wooden framed doors with exposed hinges characterised the rear end of the classic car, the new MINI Clubman features door surfaces that smoothly and aerodynamically merge into the C-pillars.
The color scheme also takes its inspiration from the classic rear-doors. The C-pillars together with the bumper finished in contrasting paintwork, form a striking door surround. The color of the rear door surround also matches the colour of the contrast roof, which comes standard on the MINI Clubman in either Silver or Black. As an option the MINI Clubman is also available with the roof finished in body color, in which case only the C-pillars including the upper section of the bumpers are finished in contrasting Silver or Black.
Enhanced Function With MINI Driving Characteristics
MINI has developed the new MINI Clubman specifically for the active and passionate individualist wishing to consciously stand out. The MINI Clubman retains its sporting character, while offering new and flexible options in interior use and practical value. Despite its slightly longer proportions the MINI Clubman retains MINI’s typical “wheels at the four corners” stance and the car’s driving characteristics still offer the legendary go-kart feeling unique to MINI.
The chassis and suspension are engineered specifically to the needs of the MINI Clubman. At the front McPherson struts and springs ensure excellent wheel control, keeping the steering smooth in control and responsive. The suspension is further tuned to expertly manage the dynamic affects of engine power under acceleration or when applying the brakes. The central-arm rear axle, benefits from BMW Group’s state-of-the-art engineering and development and the rear suspension is unique in the MINI segment thanks to its sophisticated design. Lightweight aluminium longitudinal control arms and anti-roll bars offer sporty and stable handling. On the MINI Cooper S Clubman the suspension is tuned to reflect the vehicle’s additional power compared to that on the MINI Cooper Clubman. The new MINI Cooper Clubman comes standard with 15-inch wheels, while the MINI Cooper S Clubman features 16-inch rims with runflat tires allowing the driver to continue even after a complete loss of tire pressure.
EPAS Electrical Power Assisted Steering, geared to road speed, gives the driver precise feedback and retains the razor-sharp reflexes expected in a MINI. The Electrical Power Assisted Steering system also offers significant weigh reduction over a conventional hydraulic steering system and electrically generates power-assist only as needed. The feature eliminates any unnecessary parasitic loss, further increasing vehicle efficiency.
The sport-tuned characteristics of the MINI Clubman are supported by an impressive level of braking and traction management technology such as anti-lock control (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Cornering Brake Control (CBC) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including hill start-off assistance all standard. In addition the Brake Assistant on the new MINI Clubman recognizes emergency application of the brakes and immediately builds maximum brake pressure whenever required to minimize stopping distances in panic situations.
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