New 2016 Mini Clubman unveiled

Subsequent to the unveil of the Clubman Concept at the Geneva Motor Show last year, Mini has finally taken the wraps off the 2016 Clubman. So far the Countryman was the largest model in Mini’s product portfolio, but thanks to the larger dimensions, the new Clubman now takes the title. The new kid on the block is 4,253mm long and 1,800mm wide making it 158mm longer and 10mm wider than its sibling in discussion. In fact, it is also fairly larger than its predecessor. But on the flipside, the increase in size has also led to a hike in the weight of 155kg.  

In the looks department, the new Clubman sticks to Mini’s new design philosophy that we have already seen on the new-generation models. Up front the Clubman gets a large single-unit grille that is complimented by those massive circular headlamps on either side. As is typical of all Mini designs, the Clubman too gets a neatly rounded body. At the back the taillights have now been placed horizontally instead of the previous vertical ones. And then of course, unlike the previous generation model, the Clubman now has 6 doors with two doors on either side at the back.  

With a large round console in the centre that houses the infotainment system and the signature BMW rotary dials between the front two seats, the Clubman’s dashboard is quite similar to the other Mini models on sale currently. Needless to say, with the increase in the overall size, the space on the inside has been improved too. 

The new Clubman is expected to be powered by a 3-pot 1.5-litre gasoline unit that makes close to 135PS of power and 220Nm of torque. The Clubman is also likely to be offered with 2.0-litre 4-cylinder diesel unit and a more powerful 2.0-litre petrol unit as well. Aside from all these engine options, a Clubman S John Cooper Works also might introduced later. 

As of now Mini only sells the Cooper and the Countryman in India and it seems unlikely that the 2016 Mini Clubman will make to our shores soon. But then with the pace at which the market is opening up to new products, things might just change by the time BMW plans to bring it here.