Mini Clubman

Clubman at 2016 NYIAS

     For the 2014 model year, Mini unveiled a new generation of its iconic Cooper hatchback with a new, bloated design language. In 2015, the new look spread to the Clubman, a slightly longer variant of the Mini hatchback. This revamp has resulted is an relatively attractive wagon, although its is less unique than its predecessor.

     The front fascia is a bit polarizing. Bulging, oval headlights with LEDs lining the inside are surrounded in chrome, with looks a little too gaudy. However, the headlamp units themselves are modern and clean. The bulbous grille, half mesh design and half piano black surfacing, is far too big and makes the Clubman look like it has a giant gaping mouth. Despite this, the vents on the lower front fascia and the hoop scoop make the Mini look aggressive and makes up for the oversized grille.

     On the side of the Clubman, black plastic cladding around the wheel wells and on the sill add an off-roading attitude, and the blacked-out roof and pillars emphasize the assertive appearance started on the front fascia. The previous generation Clubman featured a suicide rear door on the right side only, creating a quirky three-door setup similar to the Hyundai Veloster. The new car does away with this, instead getting normal rear doors on both sides. While it may be more practical, the new Clubman has less character than its predecessor.

Clubman at 2016 NYIAS

     Horizontal taillights, chrome door handles, and rectangular running lights below that accentuate the wide rear end. The back of the Mini also features barn doors, which open outwards in opposite directions, an unorthodox design cue that carried over from the previous generation and makes the Clubman stand out in a crowd. The chrome surrounding the detailed taillights looks tacky and could be done without. Vents on the lower rear fascia mirror those on the front, and combined with the two chrome-tipped exhaust pipes, adds an aura of performance to the Clubman. Overall, the Clubman remains a handsome, unique compact wagon.

Grade
Front: B
Back: A
Overall: B+