Despite the first generation having started more like a niche model in the MINI->ke57 lineup, the Clubman->ke2526 has managed to achieve a decent number of sales, prompting the German-British carmaker to work on a new model. The 2016 MINI Cooper Clubman, which is based on the UKL1 architecture that will soon be shared with BMW’s->ke178 entire compact lineup, is nearing the end of its testing phase, and our spy shooters caught a nearly undisguised prototype showing part of its production taillights for the very first time.

Despite the front and sides looking pretty much like a longer MINI Hardtop 4-Door, it seems that the 2016 Clubman will keep some of the quirkiness of the first generation when it comes to the rear. As you can see, not only have the bread-van-like doors been kept, but the taillights seem to look completely different when compared to the two- and four-door Coopers. Unlike the first generation though, the single door on the driver side and suicide door on the passenger side have been replaced by normal doors.

Speaking of compacts, rumors suggest that the MINI Clubman has increased quite a bit in just about every direction, making its overall size look right at home next to other compact cars like Volkswagen Golf,->ke164. Unlike the Golf, the new Clubman will have larger luggage compartment and offer a much more efficient opening thanks to the two "bread van" doors. Expect Mini to reveal the 2016 Clubman at either the 2015 Geneva Motor show->ke228 in March or in Frankfurt in September.

Click past the jump to read more about the 2016 Mini Clubman.

Why it matters

Despite having lost some of the oddities found on the first generation, the 2016 MINI Clubman will still look funky enough thanks to being the only mass-produced car with six doors, two of which give access to the luggage compartment. With an overall size that now puts it dangerously close to other compact cars that cost way less money, the new model is still expected to sell in reasonable numbers thanks to MINI's clever marketing and all-new power plants, which should make it more efficient and a little faster.

Also, thanks to the addition of an extra door on the driver side and an increased overall size, the 2016 Clubman will probably give its occupants a little more breathing room. Too bad it will also have some internal competition now from the slightly shorter and probably cheaper MINI Hardtop 4-Door.

2015 Mini Clubman - Spy Shots