95 Mini Clubman: chubby design brings new level of practicality

New model looks bloated but spacious interior and large boot will attract family buyers

Can the new Mini Clubman compete with the likes of the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf as a family favourite? We take it out on the road to find out. Video: Neil Briscoe

The problem with the Mini Clubman is that it’s not cute anymore. Compared to the old Clubman, it’s a bit chubby. The old Clubman looked every bit as lithe and trim as the hatchback upon which it was based.

Yes, so the single rear door (always an oddball choice) was on the wrong side and the boot was tiny, it didn’t matter; the Clubman was a slightly more practical Mini and that was fine.

The new Clubman is a seriously practical Mini. It’s the longest Mini-badged car ever, which means that there’s now stretching space in the back seats and a decent boot for the first time.

It’s so practical now that a growing family could use it as their everyday car without a moment’s hesitation.

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And it’s still fun to drive, with that same Mini sharpness to the steering, and a far-better resolution to the ride/handling compromise.

It’s just that it looks bloated and chubby, which in spite of the hugely improved underpinnings, is a bit of a shame. Very expensive now too.

Price range: €29,100 to €42,057

Co2 emissions: 99 to 159g/km

Which one? 1.5 Cooper

PCP from €POA