MINIs of today are indeed much larger than the compact original versions from the seventies, but many argue the latest BMW-backed MINI models are the best-looking yet, as well as being the most practical, technologically-advanced, efficient and safe. Here, we’ll explore the differences between the MINI Clubman and MINI Countryman; the marque’s two largest models.
Their looks
Both the Clubman and Countryman ooze style and boast arresting, exciting aesthetics with road presence; but in quite distinct ways. Think of the MINI Clubman as a sporty and rather beautiful ‘estate’ car. Its bonnet and grille are lower to the road, evoking a slightly stronger sense of handling prowess. The large expanse of glass down its sides is nothing short of elegant, while the iconic split doors at the rear make it not only practical but also quite unique. Attractive LED lights, various trims and alloy wheel options finish the Clubman package superbly.
The MINI Countryman, meanwhile, sits taller with a more muscular and upright grille. It’s an SUV, so graces the road in a different manner, but remains thoroughly MINI and stays youthful and fun. Even without choosing the four-wheel drive version, the Countryman looks chunky, rugged and ready for action, with its own eye-catching LED lights and other exterior cues.
The two MINIs share the same wheelbase and are very similar in length and width, so it’s mainly the height that separates them in terms of size; the Countryman being 4.6 inches taller than the Clubman.
Conclusion: In many ways, the Clubman is the visually classier of the two
Their interiors
The Clubman and Countryman can’t be described as mini on the inside, either, both models having grown compared to their predecessors. Each car has seats for five adults, and in the Countryman SUV everyone sits higher up to enjoy a fuller view of their surroundings, whereas the lower seating position in the Clubman feels somewhat sportier. High quality is evident in the two MINIs, which feature the brand’s iconic circular infotainment screen. Each can be intimately customised to suit customers’ personalities and requirements, and can be specified with the latest in entertainment, safety and convenience technology.
The rear seats can fold, split and slide in both cars, to increase either legroom or boot space to suit. And while the Countryman’s 450 litres of luggage capacity is larger than the Clubman’s 360 litres, the estate is lower and easier to slide larger loads into, especially with its ingenious split doors.
Conclusion: If sitting higher up appeals and you need maximum boot space, pick the Countryman
Their engines
MINI has always excelled at offering its cars with a range of realistic engines that combine decent performance with good running costs.
The Clubman kicks off with the petrol Cooper that produces a perky 136bhp while averaging up to 55.4mpg.
Sportier ‘S’ versions of both this and the diesel Cooper D are available. There’s a four-wheel drive ALL4 model for customers who desire added traction, and for all-out thrills little beats the 231bhp John Cooper Works model with a 0-62mph time of 6.3 seconds.
Sticking to MINI’s ethos of simplicity, the same engines form the Countryman’s line-up, many of which can be specified with an automatic gearbox making town driving even more effortless.
A key difference with the Countryman, though, is that a plug-in hybrid version is available, producing a hefty 224bhp while emitting just 49-to-52g/km CO2 and offering fuel economy of up to 134.5mpg. This hybrid variant is badged as the MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 and really does make a compelling case for green-minded MINI fans who don’t want to compromise.
Conclusion: The Cooper SD remains a great all-round performer, blending punch and economy
In numbers…
|
|
Clubman |
Countryman |
||
|
|
Min |
Max |
Min |
Max |
|
Power (HP) |
136 |
231 |
136 |
224 |
|
Fuel (comb MPG) |
38.2 |
68.9 |
38.2 |
134.5 |
|
Emissions (CO2, g/km) |
109 |
168 |
49 |
169 |
|
Top Speed (mph) |
127 |
148 |
122 |
145 |
|
0 – 60mph in…. (seconds) |
6.3 |
9.1 |
6.5 |
9.6 |
|
Price |
£24,765 |
£30,860 |
£37,230 |
£58,580 |
Both the MINI Clubman and Countryman boast beautiful interiors, are superbly engineered, can be configured with all the mod cons and have engines to suit every kind of driver. So, whether you prefer an SUV or low-slung estate body style, you’ll be thrilled. Cooper MINI will happily arrange test drives in both cars for you, so get in touch today.