- Doors and Seats
3 doors, 4 seats
- Engine
1.6T, 4 cyl.
- Engine Power
155kW, 280Nm
- Fuel
Petrol (98) 7L/100KM
- Manufacturer
FWD
- Transmission
Manual
- Warranty
3 Yr, Unltd KMs
- Ancap Safety
NA
MINI Clubman John Cooper Works Review
MINI CLUBMAN REVIEW
Vehicle Style: Small sports wagon
Price: $51,800 (plus on-road costs)
Engine: 1.6 litre petrol, turbocharged in-line four cylinder
Outputs: 155kW @ 6000rpm/280Nm @ 1850-5600rpm
Transmission: Six-speed manual
Official fuel efficiency: 7.0l/100km
On test fuel efficiency: 8.2l/100km
CO2 emissions: 167g/km
OVERVIEW
The combination of MINI’s most potent engine and the Clubman’s quirky asymmetrical five-door bodywork ensures a truly unique vehicle that backs up its quirky looks with exhilarating performance.
INTERIOR | RATING: 4/5
Quality: While retro styling is the interior’s first priority, there are lots of nice-to-touch surfaces and a solid feel to all touch-points and switches.
Comfort: Thanks to the Clubman’s longer wheelbase there’s surprisingly good rear seat space. A lack of width makes for cosy accommodation, but headroom is more than generous.
Equipment: Climate control air-con, multi-function leather-wrapped steering wheel, 17” alloy wheels, automatic bi-xenon headlamps, sports suspension, dual-outlet stainless steel exhaust are just part of an extensive equipment list.
Storage: With rear seats up, the Clubman offers 260 litres of boot-space stretching to 930 litres with the 50:50 rear bench folded. There are also dual glove-boxes and small extra storage slots in the front doors and centre armrest.
ON THE ROAD | RATING: 4.5/5
Driveability: With so much power in such a small package and maximum torque in tap from as low as 1850rpm, the Countryman John Cooper Works is a hoot to drive. Whether on suburban streets or rolling country roads, there’s plenty of punch available.
Refinement: While the cabin is well insulated, the upright windscreen can generate a bit of wind noise and the tyres get fairly raucous on less than perfect tarmac. The engine is a smooth unit though and the tuneful exhaust note is a welcome accompaniment with the taps open.
Suspension: MacPherson strut front suspension is fairly conventional, but a multi-link rear in a car of this size is a rarity. The ride is very firm and tuned for a kart-like feel, meaning comfort takes a back-seat to exceptional handling.
Braking: Disc brakes all-round with vented front and solid rear rotors. Braking is strong and a good match to the John Cooper Works’ performance.
SAFETY
ANCAP rating: Not tested
Safety features: Six airbags, ESP, EBD, brake assist, stability control, corner braking control, load-limiting pretensioners on the front belts and adjustable head restrains for all seats.
WARRANTY AND SERVICING
Warranty: Two years, unlimited kilometre warranty for the entire vehicle with three years paintwork warranty and 12 years body corrosion warranty.
Service costs: Consult with dealer before purchasing.
HOW IT COMPARES | VALUE FOR MONEY RATING: 2/5
Volkswagen Golf GTI 5dr ($40,490) – Well matched for performance, more interior space and a conventional five-door layout. Styling lacks individuality though and the GTI feels less raw. ”¨”¨(see GTI reviews)
Peugeot RCZ ($54,990) – Every bit as eye-catching as the Clubman, but less practical with its low roof and tiny rear seat. Even with the same basic engine (different tune) as the MINI, the RCZ lacks fizz. ”¨”¨(see RCZ reviews)
Subaru WRX ($39,990) – Not nearly as plush inside, but offering all the turbo rush, great handling plus additional space and the choice of hatch or sedan. (see WRX reviews)
Note: all prices are Manufacturer’s List Price and do not include dealer delivery or on-road costs.
TMR VERDICT | OVERALL RATING: 3.5/5
The MINI Clubman JCW is an odd little one-of-a-kind car with no direct competitor and some quirky design solutions.
We like the rear barn doors, but the driver’s side half-door (for increased access to the rear seats) unfortunately sees passengers unloading into the street, not the footpath.
For adults, the extra space of the wagon-style Clubman is a godsend.
For the driver, the rorty engine, race-car like ride and rich exhaust note combine to make the John Cooper Works a must-drive for the hot-hatch enthusiast.