2008 Mini Clubman

“The new, three-door Clubman S (at 2,712 pounds) weighs 142 pounds more than the standard Cooper S and measures 155.8 inches, up a half-foot over the standard car, over a wheelbase stretched 3.1 inches.” -- Dan Neil  (Allen J. Schaben/ Los Angeles Times)

“[Y]ou’ll find BMW designers have added a couple of inches of legroom. Meanwhile, the Clubman’s added longitude makes more room in the rear cargo hold, now a friendly and usable 9.2 cubic feet. Drop the rear seat backs and the car can hold 33 cubic feet.” -- Dan Neil  (Allen J. Schaben/ Los Angeles Times)

“The added weight is negligible when pitted against an engine with the soul and lower organs this one has. The 1.6-liter, direct-injection, turbo four-cylinder just spews torque from anywhere from about 3,000 rpm to 6,500 rpm.” -- Dan Neil  (Allen J. Schaben/ Los Angeles Times)

“Hinged on the outside, with openings in the sheet metal for the fixed tail lamps, these doors swing open 180 degrees to make loading easier. Propped open with gas struts, and each having its own tiny windshield wiper and chrome handle, these doors are very cool and very pricey bits.” -- Dan Neil  (Allen J. Schaben/ Los Angeles Times)