The modern Mini is technically no longer the Mini we all used to know. It didn’t just outgrow its predecessor, but it also strikes desirability among hipsters with deeper wallets, thanks to BMW’s strategy to market the Mini in the premium segment. Now, the Mini has gained a new all-wheel-drive compact wagon with the new Mini Clubman All4 model.
Unlike its predecessor’s questionable door setup, the new Clubman features six doors; four for the passengers while the remaining two form the unique split door at the back. The Clubman offers plenty of space for the practical minded with a boot space of 360 litres, further strengthening the fact that the new Minis aren’t technically all that Mini anymore.
New to this Mini Clubman is a compact all-wheel-drive system that is electronically controlled and distributes drive torque between the front and rear axles. It works on demand, but the system is front-wheel biased during regular driving. However, power will be diverted to the rear axle instantaneously when required. The Dynamic Damper Control suspension is also offered as an option. As the name suggest, it allows drivers to adjust the damping harshness depending on road conditions.
The powertrain department remains unchanged with the standard Clubman. There are two turbocharged petrol variants; a three-cylinder 1.5-litre mill that produces 136 hp and 220 Nm while the bigger four-cylinder 2.0-litre unit develops 192 hp and 280 Nm.
The Diesel variant is offered via a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel, producing 182 hp with 400 Nm of torque. The performance figures aren’t far off compared to the petrol variant, although the diesel obviously outperforms the petrol in fuel consumption figures.
The new Mini Clubman All4 will make its worldwide debut in the upcoming New York Motorshow in March. Back at home, the Clubman is not being offered by Mini Malaysia. It’s a pity considered this will score well among practical-minded Malaysians who find the Mini hatchback too small. Hang on, isn’t the Mini supposed to be small in the first place?
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