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This is the new Mini 'Clubvan', the company's latest twist on the Mini theme. Described by Mini as 'the first premium model in the small car-based van segment' (there's a niche for you), it's due to be unveiled at the Geneva show in a couple of weeks time.

As we predicted when we first heard about the new Mini commercial vehicle a little while back, the new Clubvan is basically just the Mini Clubman with rear seats and rear side glass removed to create a panel van.

It's cute, sure, but Mini's assertion that the "exterior design cuts a distinctive figure" is perhaps stretching things a little. The side-hinged rear doors and extra right-hand-side door of the Clubman should prove useful in a van, however.

Inside, it's familiar Mini fare, aside from the flat load area in the rear, which features six attachment loops, a fixed partition grille and side walls, floor and roof lining trimmed in anthracite-coloured cloth.

Only one question remains: is this a sensible twist on the Clubman them, or another case of Mini stretching its brand to breaking point? You, dear PHer, must decide...

 

Is Mini's concept as good as...	...our attempt? We think not...