It's got four doors! That's perhaps the most important thing to know about the Mini Clubman Concept (that looks rather production ready).
Yep, definitely a Mk3 Mini from here
So there will be no more clambering across by rear-seat passengers to get out, although it does give the car a slightly more hatch-like appearance than previously (helped by a 26cm length increase). We quite liked it
as a van
, maybe customers were less keen.
The front is instantly recognisable as a Mk3 Mini, with the Rocketman influenced lights. From behind though, the Clubman is very much different, both from the new hatch and the outgoing car. Vertical lights are now horizontal and much chunkier; Mini claims the rear view is 'broad and athletic', certainly helped by the new Clubman being 17cm wider than before. The split rear doors make a return, and the chrome model inscription has been introduced from the Paceman and Countryman. But it takes up so much space the Mini logo is tacked on almost as an afterthought...
Can you see the AirBreather?
Other unique Clubman design features include the plexiglass sections in the roof, a double roof spoiler and an 'AirBreather' at the side. It's apparently like the 'AirCurtains' at the front and cuts into the surrounding 'Black Band'. That doesn't really help, but presumably it's that trim down on the side sills.
The Clubman concept is painted Berry Red with a roof in 'Blade' and 19-inch (19s! On a Mini) bi-colour wheels, previewing what will surely be a host of customisation options.
While the outside is probably representative of the production Clubman, the interior is a little more adventurous. It was the leather covered instrument panel with 'a surround in blue limed ash grain and a white porcelain finish' that gave it away. That and the air vents with 'patinised, silver-plated surrounds'. The display behind the gearlever changes according to which toggle behind it is selected, which can be individually programmed.
Some of this will make production...
But this is the practical Mini, right? To that end there are three 'fully-fledged' seats, a double load floor and storage pouches in the rear doors. Trimmed in Silk White leather, of course.
However, stripped of its show fripperies, this concept is surely indicative of the production Clubman. What isn't known yet is when that car will go on sale, or indeed when the production version will be shown. We'll keep you posted, and report back on a first drive of the new Mini hatch very soon.