Motoring Weekly

Clubbing together

April 2 - 8, 2008
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MINI is enlarging its range with an innovative and irresistible model. The Mini Clubman arrived this month in the Middle East with a surprising design concept aimed at making it stand out.

The Mini Clubman is reminiscent of its classic forerunners in terms of design. In its split-door configuration, the Mini Clubman brings back memories of its famous predecessors: the Austin Mini Countryman, the Morris Mini Traveller and the Mini Clubman Estate sold very successfully between 1960 and 1982.

The Clubman's innovative door concept makes it a special five-door model, with the conventional driver's and front passenger's door supplemented by an additional rear-hinged door on the right-hand side of the car. The rear door sports two split-door wings. The two-piece rear door offers a highly interesting re-interpretation of an authentic detail on the Mini's classic forerunners.

"A new chapter in the international story of success of the Mini product range has started with the introduction of the all-new Mini Clubman," said BMW Group Middle East managing director Phil Horton. "We have received positive feedback for the car after its debut at the 9th Middle East International Motor Show in Dubai and are expecting good results with its arrival to the region."

Powered by a 1.6-litre four-cylinder with twin-scroll turbocharger, direct gasoline injection and maximum output of 128 kW/175 hp at an engine speed of 5,500 rpm, the Mini Cooper S Clubman will immediately move right up to the top of the new model series.

The Mini Cooper Clubman, in turn, benefiting from its 88 kW/120 hp 1.6-litre four-cylinder developing 88 kW/120 hp at 6,600 rpm and featuring fully variable valve management, offers superior driving pleasure and convincing economy at all times.

"The new generation of MINI offers unique design and unmatched driving agility in a small premium car, combined with quality and safety of the highest standard, in addition to a wide range of customisation options," added Mr Horton.

"Catering to a wider and more diverse range of drivers, the Mini Clubman offers people who enjoyed the original Mini yet wanted more space the best of both worlds."

Through its diversity alone, the Mini Clubman provides an up-to-date interpretation of traditional shooting brake concepts incorporating the smooth flow of the rear section and the steep rear end to highlight both the car's sportiness and functionality.

The Mini Clubman offers enthusiasts even greater options in customisation with more than 40 combinations of the exterior paintwork and a combination of four interior colours and five Colour Line variants for the interior, in addition to a selection of cloth and leather upholstery.







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