The New MINI Clubman Cooper S: What’s It Like To Drive?
The MINI is a familiar city car that you’re likely to find in virtually every country around the world! Like its British Leyland predecessor, the BMW-built MINI is an iconic model. These days, one can choose from a variety of styles of MINI. One style in particular that caught my eye is the MINI Clubman Cooper S.
To some people, it’s just a small estate car. But, to others, it offers far more than meets the eye. The latest incarnation has done away with the weird doors and hosts a few other improvements. So, what’s it like to drive? I decided to take one out for a leisurely drive. Here’s what I found out:
To some people, it’s just a small estate car. But, to others, it offers far more than meets the eye. The latest incarnation has done away with the weird doors and hosts a few other improvements. So, what’s it like to drive? I decided to take one out for a leisurely drive.
Here’s what I found out:
It packs a punch under the bonnet
There are four trim levels on the Clubman, all with the “Cooper” moniker. The one we’re interested in today is the MINI Clubman Cooper S.
When you select that model at www.coopermini.co.uk, you’ll notice one thing. It comes with a 2.0-litre “TwinPower” engine as standard. Yes, I know; TwinPower is a BMW thing. But what do you expect, considering MINI is a subsidiary of the German car giant!
The 2.0-litre turbo engine is good for 189 brake horsepower. And with such a lightweight car as this MINI, it’ll go from 0-60 mph in seven seconds. If you opt for the Steptronic (i.e. automatic) gearbox, you’ll shave 0.1 seconds off that time. It’s a curious fact and one that is evident on many BMW models as well.
Does it stick to the road as well as the Hatch?
In a word, yes. The MINI Clubman Cooper S offers the same agile handling as its brother. One of the things people like about the MINI is how even in standard guise it sticks to the tarmac. Other superminis can sometimes spin out of control at the first sign of trouble. That’s not the case with this MINI Clubman Cooper S!
In my opinion, the steering feels well-connected to the road. It’s not as light as say the Toyota Yaris. But, it’s light enough that it won’t give your wrists a workout when turning corners.
And how well does it stop?
The standard brake setup on the MINI is pretty good, to be fair. The components used for the 2.0-litre turbo stop the car well.
Of course, this isn’t a MINI designed for track use. With that in mind, you won’t see anything like Brembo 6-pots fitted as standard.
Still, with decent tyres on the stock alloys, the brakes will make sure you don’t end crashing.
Is it a car worth buying?
Each MINI offered has a particular audience that it attracts. In the case of the Clubman Cooper S, it’s for those seeking more passenger and cargo space.
It’s also a practical family car, believe it or not. The MINI is one of those cars that looks small outside but massive inside! Go and check one out; it won’t disappoint you!
Credit photo & BMW Media Press Europe
