New MINI Clubman: Size matters

MINI says the new MINI Clubman and BMW 2 Series Active Tourer are two entirely different cars even though they share the same UKL chassis architecture and wheelbase.

In fact, MINI Clubman 'project expert' and mechanical engineer Faris Gerum – who was responsible for all aspects of the MKIII Clubman barring its powertrain – wants to ensure the phrase ‘shared platform’ is struck from any record.

Speaking with assembled Australian and New Zealand media at the MINI Clubman range’s international media launch in Stockholm, Gerum conceded the “architecture” is similar but insists there’s no interchangeability between the MINI and BMW wagons.

“For it to be a shared platform, you would have to be able to remove one body and add another… this is not the case here.”

Further, certain engines and transmission options that are now shared between the brands (including the new eight-speed automatic we will see in the Cooper S Clubman, along with its 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine) receive specific ECU tuning to suit the application, meaning the finished products deliver a specific driving experience based on the model’s targeted market.

“For example, the MINI is tuned to be fun to drive and responsive, where there is a more refined touch to the BMW,” Gerum said.

That doesn’t affect the engine’s overall outputs, however. In the MINI Cooper Clubman the 1.5-litre turbocharged three-pot produces 100kW/220Nm -- the same as in the BMW 218i Active Tourer.

Step up to the 141kW/280Nm Cooper S and you hit the same peaks as a 220i Active Tourer.

Tuning specificity extends to the architecture also, the Clubman gaining its own suspension design with damper and spring settings optimised to its unique overall dimensions.

Although the Clubman shares the 2670mm wheelbase of the Active Tourer, it is 8.9cm shorter overall at 4253mm, indicating that front overhangs have been minimised to retain the ‘wheel at each corner’ stance synonymous with the MINI since its 1960s debut.

It is also 114mm shorter than the BMW, but only loses 1mm in track width both front and rear (comparing Cooper S Clubman and 220i).

Regardless, the Clubman introduces MINI to the premium compact segment in Europe. It, Gerum says, was enlarged due to customer demand.

“People kept approaching us saying their needs have changed, they have families, they want more practicality, but they want to stay with the brand. What could we do?”

“Now, media keep asking ‘How is it still a MINI, at this size?’ but it is in response to the market,” he continued.

Beyond practicality, however, Gerum suggested the combination of extended wheelbase and specific suspension design for the Clubman make it a group favourite.

“We did a lot of testing at the Nurburgring and all the test drivers fought to drive the Clubman over the other MINIs -- they were always first onto the track,” he recalled.

This solid base bodes well for a future Clubman JCW variant, though this officially remains unconfirmed.

“Take the hint,” said Gerum when the ‘John Cooper Works Aerodynamic Kit’ was shown during the press conference.

Watch this space for our first drive of the new MINI Clubman from the international launch soon.