Test drive: Mini Clubman Cooper D (Part I)

We continue with our tests, and we’re still driving somewhat exclusive cars. This time, the Mini Clubman Cooper D. The Clubman has a very particular design that really catches the eye and contributes to the brand’s image of exclusivity and originality Mini. We have also chosen the more sensible variant for this Mini Clubman with a diesel engine.

The dealership CELTAMOTOR (Mini dealer in Vigo) provided us with this Mini Clubman Cooper D with 110 CV for the test. The model we tested (fitted with some extras) had a price of 27,000 euros. But the Mini Clubman is available from 22,700 euros.

Engine and performance

Our Mini Clubman, as I mentioned earlier, came with the 1.6 diesel engine producing 110 CV (at 4,000 rpm), which is the result of an agreement with the PSA Group and is very similar to that of other models in the group and an old acquaintance. The engine is a four-cylinder unit, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, and produces 240 Nm of torque between 1,750 and 2,000 rpm.

The most notable thing about the engine is its linear and firm pull between 1,750 and 2,000 rpm. At all times, even when asking for more power, the engine delivers a smooth push without power jumps. It responds from quite low revs, and with a fairly elastic gearbox it can tackle any road or motorway.

If, on the other hand, we try to ask for a bit more sportiness from the Clubman Cooper D, the car and engine respond without any problem, and by playing a little more with the gearbox you get good acceleration and handling results, especially through corners, where the ESP and fairly direct steering ensure the Mini Clubman will respond and take whatever line you choose.

The diesel engine’s consumption is quite modest, especially on country roads or motorways, where it averages 4.6 l/100 km. In town, consumption rises somewhat, almost reaching 7.5 l/100 km. City consumption is helped by the Mini’s Stop&Start system, which switches the engine off during long stops (such as at traffic lights) when you release the clutch pedal, and restarts it as soon as you press it again without disrupting the drive. It does take some getting used to at first.

The main drawback of the engine and of the comfort of the drive is the engine noise. Much of the blame lies with the engine itself, but it could have been insulated a bit better, as at low speeds it sounds too much like a diesel. The brakes are also within normal limits and, together with the ABS, perform correctly without any great fanfare.

In the next part of the test we will look at interior space, finish and living comfort.