Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[MINI to offer exclusive Rally Edition Clubman S in U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/21/mini-to-offer-exclusive-rally-edition-clubman-s-in-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/21/mini-to-offer-exclusive-rally-edition-clubman-s-in-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/21/mini-to-offer-exclusive-rally-edition-clubman-s-in-u-s/#commentsFiled under: ,

Mini Rally Edition Clubman S - Click above for image gallery

If you're into the Mini Clubman but would like to get something a bit more unique, the pint-sized automaker has something for you. Mini site Motoring File is reporting that the brand is building 70 USA-bound Rally Edition Clubman S models. That's 70 in total, or enough for just one Rally Edition Clubman S per U.S. Mini dealership.

The Rally Edition Clubman will feature a midnight black monotone paint job with silver racing stripes and matching black JCW aero kit. The Rally Edition Clubman also sets itself apart with hot-looking 17-inch black wheels and a roof rack. The special rally edition model will also receive "Rally Green" side mirror caps that pop, at least in the presumably Photoshopped pic above, when contrasted with the black paint. The Rally Edition Clubman S looks pretty damn good, and MINI knows it. Add up all those features and the exclusivity that comes with a limited production run, and you get an MSRP of $32,999.


Gallery: Mini Rally Edition Clubman S

clubmansrally2minirallyclubmans

[Source: Motoring File]

MINI to offer exclusive Rally Edition Clubman S in U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Aug 2009 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 clubman s2010ClubmanSclubmanclubman sClubmanSjcwJohn Cooper WorksJohnCooperWorksminiMini clubmanmini clubman sMini Rally Edition Clubman SMiniClubmanMiniClubmanSMiniRallyEditionClubmanSrally editionRally Edition Clubman SRallyEditionRallyEditionClubmanSFri, 21 Aug 2009 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2009 MINI Clubman John Cooper Works]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/09/in-the-autoblog-garage-2009-mini-clubman-john-cooper-works/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/09/in-the-autoblog-garage-2009-mini-clubman-john-cooper-works/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/09/in-the-autoblog-garage-2009-mini-clubman-john-cooper-works/#commentsFiled under: ,


2009 MINI Clubman John Cooper Works - Click above for high-res image gallery

The names MINI and John Cooper have been intertwined for more than 40 years and now they are closer than ever. When British race car and engine builder Cooper prepped the original MINIs for the Monte Carlo rally back in the 1960s, he helped cement the iconic status of the little car. When the MINI was reborn as a product of BMW earlier this decade, the Cooper model was a standard element of the lineup. A semi-official tuned John Cooper works edition was also available for the hard-core addicts. Earlier this year, BMW announced that the John Cooper Works MINI would become an official factory product analogous to M models from its parent company BMW.

The JCW edition is available on both the standard MINI hardtop and the extra-length Clubman. Having a JCW MINI means you have opted for the fastest factory MINI ever built. We spent a week with a John Cooper Works MINI Clubman in the Autoblog Garage just as winter weather clamped down on Michigan. Find out how this maximum fared in wintry Motown after the jump.


Gallery: Review: 2009 MINI Clubman John Cooper Works


Photos Copyright (C)2008 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2009 MINI Clubman John Cooper Works

Review: 2009 MINI Clubman John Cooper Works originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Dec 2008 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clubmancooper clubmanCooperClubmanfeaturedin the autoblog garageInTheAutoblogGaragejohn cooper worksjohn cooper works clubmanjohn cooper works miniJohnCooperWorksJohnCooperWorksClubmanJohnCooperWorksMiniminimini cooper clubmanMiniCooperClubmanreviewTue, 09 Dec 2008 12:01:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: MINI creates Bzzz for Clubman with new commercial]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/09/video-mini-creates-bzzz-for-clubman-with-new-commercial/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/09/video-mini-creates-bzzz-for-clubman-with-new-commercial/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/09/video-mini-creates-bzzz-for-clubman-with-new-commercial/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



MINI has a new commercial for the Clubman that looks like a teaser for a new Tim Burton film -- all it's missing is Johnny Depp. Detailing the arcane goings on at a funeral for a fly, we aren't sure how the commercial is supposed to make humans want to buy the car, but that's why ad guys get paid the big dollars and we don't. However, we do have to admit that the three-swatter salute was a nice touch. Follow the jump to watch the vid, and you can judge the... impact... for yourself. Thanks for the tip, Andreas!

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: MINI creates Bzzz for Clubman with new commercial

VIDEO: MINI creates Bzzz for Clubman with new commercial originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Sep 2008 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bzzzbzzz commercialBzzzCommercialclubmancommercialcommercialsminimini advertisementmini clubmanmini clubman commercialmini commercialMiniAdvertisementMiniClubmanMiniClubmanCommercialMiniCommercialvideovideosyoutubeTue, 09 Sep 2008 09:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2008 MINI Cooper Clubman]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/23/in-the-autoblog-garage-2008-mini-cooper-clubman/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/23/in-the-autoblog-garage-2008-mini-cooper-clubman/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/23/in-the-autoblog-garage-2008-mini-cooper-clubman/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2008 MINI Cooper Clubman - Click above for high-res image gallery

"You want a large for $.25 more?" That's what the popcorn drone behind the concession counter asks when you order a medium Coke at the movies. You may not need it, but hell, it's offered, so you pull the trigger. The same thing is happening in auto showrooms. Why settle for just an Escalade when you can have the ESV? This year, even BMW-owned MINI is getting in on the act. The result is the MINI Cooper Clubman, which your local MINI salesperson will happily offer for just $2,000 more than the regular Cooper.

So, what does that extra two grand (before options) really get you? After all, the regular MINI Cooper is a tidy little package; it's great looking, fun, and economical, while offering a high level of factory customization and/or personalization. Want more performance? Buy an S. Want even more than that? Get the JCW. If you wanted more room, however, you had a problem. Until now. Enter the Clubman. MINI has decided to expand the niche it occupies by combining the red meat its core customers want -- the cars' signature styling and entertaining nature -- with more room for people and stuff. But not too much more, because then it wouldn't be a MINI. The idea was to get bigger while remaining small. What a conundrum. Go too big, and you squash brand identity, don't go big enough, and the whole exercise is a waste of everyone's time.

Gallery: Review: 2008 MINI Cooper Clubman


All photos Copyright (C)2008 Alex Núñez, Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2008 MINI Cooper Clubman

Review: 2008 MINI Cooper Clubman originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 May 2008 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008 MINI cooper clubman2008MiniCooperClubmanautoblog garageAutoblogGarageclubmancooperfeaturedMINIreviewFri, 23 May 2008 12:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Mini does a Max]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/20/mini-does-a-max/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/20/mini-does-a-max/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/20/mini-does-a-max/#commentsFiled under: , ,

When we reported on this SM themed Agent Provocateur Mini Clubman, we took an impossible-to-resist shot at Max Moseley, but now Mini and the AIDS charity Life Ball may be making the most of the FIA president's infamous escape, too. In order to publicize the car's upcoming auction, the black and pink police car has been photographed with, you guessed it, four whip-wielding dominatrixes wearing Gestapo-esque caps... and not a whole lot else. This Dutch website has been diligent enough to post a video of the photoshoot (WARNING: NSFW video).

BMW's contribution to Life Ball is commendable, but seems somewhat odd since the boys from Bavaria were among the first to publicly call for Mr. Moseley's resignation from the FIA following his indiscrete trip to a London SM dungeon.

In a related development, The Times newspaper has revealed that the prostitute who videoed Max's exploits is married to a serving (for now) MI5 officer and as such appears to be genuine agent provocateur, much to the delight of conspiracy theorists and the FIA president's lawyers alike.

[Source: autojunk.nl]

Mini does a Max originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 May 2008 08:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agent provocateurAgentProvocateurclubmanmax moseleyMaxMoseleyminiTue, 20 May 2008 08:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva '08 Preview: John Cooper Works MINI and Clubman]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/24/geneva-08-preview-john-cooper-works-mini-and-clubman/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/24/geneva-08-preview-john-cooper-works-mini-and-clubman/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/24/geneva-08-preview-john-cooper-works-mini-and-clubman/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click image for more hi-res pics of the John Cooper Works MINIs

Hitting the bull's-eye for enthusiasts, BMW's MINI brand is launching two hot new models next month at the Geneva Auto Show. Loaded with performance upgrades and new interior appointments, each race-bred model serves as the basis for the MINI CHALLENGE 2008 race car.

Based on the three-door MINI and the five-door MINI Clubman, the heart of each model is a turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder massaged to 207 hp. Pedal to the floor, it should be good for a sprint to 60 mph in just under 6.5 seconds (the MINI Clubman, a bit heavier than the three-door, is a few tenths slower). Unique light alloy wheels, a new performance exhaust system, upgraded suspension, and a modified 6-speed manual transmission are just some of the mechanical upgrades. Aesthetically, the John Cooper Works models will be differentiated by their distinctive body kits and unique interiors. With a base price of under $30,000, get ready to storm your dealers when they're released in late summer. Follow the jump for MINI's endless press release.

Gallery: 2008 John Cooper Works MINI and Clubman


[Source: BMW]

Continue reading Geneva '08 Preview: John Cooper Works MINI and Clubman

Geneva '08 Preview: John Cooper Works MINI and Clubman originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 24 Feb 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BMWbreakingClubmanCoopergeneva 08geneva 2008Geneva08Geneva2008John Cooper WorksJohnCooperWorksMINIPerformanceTurbochargedSun, 24 Feb 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit 2008: MINI Cooper S Clubman makes it Stateside]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/14/detroit-2008-mini-cooper-s-clubman-makes-it-stateside/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/14/detroit-2008-mini-cooper-s-clubman-makes-it-stateside/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/14/detroit-2008-mini-cooper-s-clubman-makes-it-stateside/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click image for live shots of the US-spec MINI Clubman

The U.S. version of the 2008 MINI Cooper S Clubman debuted at the 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit today. We saw the European Mini Cooper Clubman in Frankfurt in both base Cooper and the sportier "S" model, but here are some live shots of the American offering. Nothing surprising: same five doors, same cute styling. The Clubman will go on sale beginning February 16th, 2008 in both Cooper Clubman and Cooper S Clubman models. Base price for the MINI Cooper Clubman will be just $20,600, with the MINI Cooper S Clubman starting at $24,100.

The slightly stretched MINI with its right-hand suicide door and funky barn-door cargo ports out back has been getting pretty good reviews. We'll try to get our hands on one for the garage to confirm those feelings ourselves. While the concept of a "big" MINI is sacrilege to some, we tend to like the idea of actually being able to use that back seat and still have a little room for some baggage as well. Our one gripe? The naming. MINI Cooper Clubman and MINI Cooper S Clubman are a mouthful. We'll stick with the more natural sounding MINI Clubman and MINI Clubman S in casual conversation. You can read the MINI's press release after the jump, and don't forget to check out the gallery by clicking above or below.

[Source: MINI]

Gallery: 2008 Detroit: US MINI Cooper Clubman


Gallery: 2008 MINI Clubman

Continue reading Detroit 2008: MINI Cooper S Clubman makes it Stateside

Detroit 2008: MINI Cooper S Clubman makes it Stateside originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Jan 2008 12:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ClubmanClubman SClubmanSCooperDetroitDetroit 2008Detroit Auto ShowDetroit2008DetroitAutoShowMINIMINI ClubmanMiniClubmanNAIASMon, 14 Jan 2008 12:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Clarkson considers the MINI Clubman "a toilet"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/26/clarkson-considers-the-clubman-a-toilet/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/26/clarkson-considers-the-clubman-a-toilet/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/26/clarkson-considers-the-clubman-a-toilet/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



For all of his popularity and sceptered isle wit, it's probable that Jeremy Clarkson hasn't kept anyone from buying a car they really wanted. Which is a good thing for MINI and those folks looking at a Clubman, because Jezza has this to say about it: "About as desirable as a packet of dung or a can of worms."

Most of his issues with the car are sensible: the third door is on the wrong side for the Brits, no rear visibility due to the split rear doors, massive torque steer, tramlining, and a (still) tiny boot. His other problem with the car doesn't really strike us as a problem: according to Clarkson, the car's natural cruising speed is 110-MPH. Um... that's what cruise control is for... or paying attention to the flow of traffic... because it's not like you could need a larger speedo to keep better track of your progress.

As always, it's an entertaining read, if full of digressions. But as we said, we don't think it will keep even one MINI Clubman from finding a good, private home. For all of its perceived and/or actual shortcomings, MINI is practically the entire reason that the noun "lifestyle" became an adjective, and lifestyle purchases operate on principles that have nothing to do with torque steer and boot volume.

[Source: London Times]

Clarkson considers the MINI Clubman "a toilet" originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Dec 2007 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clarksonclubmanclubman reviewClubmanReviewjeremy clarksonjeremy clarkson mini clubmanJeremyClarksonJeremyClarksonMiniClubmanminimini clubmanmini clubman reviewMiniClubmanMiniClubmanReviewWed, 26 Dec 2007 16:02:00 EST<![CDATA[MINI crossover dubbed 'Crossman' by CEO]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/17/mini-crossover-dubbed-crossman-by-ceo/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/17/mini-crossover-dubbed-crossman-by-ceo/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/17/mini-crossover-dubbed-crossman-by-ceo/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The MINI has been on a growth spurt since the introduction of the second-generation model. With the 3&frac12;-door Clubman wagon on its way to dealerships, the new convertible set to follow, and even a sports-coupe derivative rumored to be in the works, the BMW division is focusing on the development of a crossover based on the MINI.

No big news there, we've been watching the spy shots roll in for months now. The surprise, however, is that it won't be called the Colorado as previously thought. No, that was just a working title, an internal codename. It won't be called the Monte, either, as previous reports suggested. According to a recent interview in German publication Auto Motor und Sport, MINI's CEO Kay Segler said the retro soft-roader will likely be called "Crossman".

Magna-Steyr is expected to build 80,000 Crossmans (Crossmen?) at its factory in Austria each year, starting in 2010. The name, of course, combines Crossover with Clubman, the wagon variant on which it's based. Think it'll entice more buyers than "Colorado" or "Monte"? Leave your opinion in the comments section below.

[Sources: Auto Motor und Sport via Autoblog.nl and eGMCarTech]

MINI crossover dubbed 'Crossman' by CEO originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Dec 2007 12:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clubmancrossmancrossovercuvminimontesavsuvMon, 17 Dec 2007 12:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Limited MINI Clubman availabilty in the U.S. for 2008]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/11/limited-mini-clubman-availabilty-in-the-u-s-for-2008/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/11/limited-mini-clubman-availabilty-in-the-u-s-for-2008/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/11/limited-mini-clubman-availabilty-in-the-u-s-for-2008/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Add another model to the Limited Initial Availability pile: the MINI Clubman. It's being reported that BMW only plans to provide US dealers with four -- that's right, four -- MINI Clubman's "for the first few months of US production."

The Dodge Charger is going into limited production its first year in order to keep the car exclusive. The Malibu Hybrid is only being sent to certain dealers in order to make the best attack on its competitors. The MINI Clubman will make its way here in so few numbers not just for exclusivity's sake, but because BMW apparently makes more money on a MINI sold in Europe than one sold here, and Italy has been identified as the largest market for the little big MINI. For those of you interested in the 3.5-door, do you hear that? Yeah -- it's the sound of a long wait...

[Source: Motoring File]

Limited MINI Clubman availabilty in the U.S. for 2008 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Dec 2007 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clubmanminimini clubmanmini clubman dealermini clubman usMiniClubmanMiniClubmanDealerMiniClubmanUsTue, 11 Dec 2007 17:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Countless ways to configure your Clubman]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/02/countless-ways-to-configure-your-clubman/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/02/countless-ways-to-configure-your-clubman/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/02/countless-ways-to-configure-your-clubman/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Mini USA has launched its configurator for the Clubman, which means you can now see all of the accessories you never even knew you wanted. Take for instance the chrome bonnet scoop ($159), or the colored door lining ($250). It really starts to add up. Our dream Mini Clubman S complete with JWC accessories and no expense spared? $43,020. Ouch.

There are most definitely cheaper ways to buy a Clubman- the standard version starts at $19,950 and our Clubman S began with a base msrp of $24,100. Mini claims there are over 10,000,000 possible configurations, and with nineteen different wheels and three valve stem caps to choose from, we are inclined to believe them.

Thanks for the tip, Zack!

[Source: Mini USA]

Countless ways to configure your Clubman originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 02 Dec 2007 11:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ClubmanClubman SClubmanSMiniMini ClubmanMini Clubman configuratorMini Clubman featuresMini Clubman optionsMini Clubman SMini Clubman S optionsMini configuratorMiniClubmanMiniClubmanConfiguratorMiniClubmanFeaturesMiniClubmanOptionsMiniClubmanSMiniClubmanSOptionsMiniConfiguratorSun, 02 Dec 2007 11:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Leakage: <strike>John Cooper Works</strike> MINI Clubman with JCW accessories]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/08/leakage-john-cooper-works-mini-clubman/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/08/leakage-john-cooper-works-mini-clubman/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/08/leakage-john-cooper-works-mini-clubman/#commentsFiled under: ,

UPDATE: Apparently these shots are of an accessorized version of the Clubman, and not official pics of the full-bore JCW variant. Thanks to Gabe for the heads up.

Click the image above for more.

With the first few details about MINI's Stage II JCW Cooper S emerging, it was simply a matter of time before we saw a similar package for the brand new Clubman S. As we speculated, the John Cooper Works edition Clubman is somewhat similar to the MINI Challenge safety Clubman that we featured last month. The revised front bumper isn't quite as radical as its track-bound compatriot, but the JCW Clubman makes up for it with a unique stripe design, new exhaust tips, red brake calipers peering behind 18-inch wheels, plus carbon fiber side mirrors and (non-functioning) hood scoop.

Naturally, power output will be bumped up -- somewhere in the realm of 200 HP -- while torque will likely increase to around 200 lb.-ft. Beyond that, expect to see some carbon fiber trim on the inside and an F1-style shift light on the instrument cluster. All standard practice for the JCW crew.

[Source: Autoweek.nl]

Gallery: Leakage: JCW MINI Clubman S

Leakage: John Cooper Works MINI Clubman with JCW accessories originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Nov 2007 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clubmanclubman sClubmanSjcwjcw mini clubman sJcwMiniClubmanSjohn cooper worksJohnCooperWorksminimini clubmanmini clubman sMiniClubmanMiniClubmanSThu, 08 Nov 2007 10:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Fifth Gear takes the MINI Clubman for a spin]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/15/fifth-gear-takes-the-mini-clubman-for-a-spin/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/15/fifth-gear-takes-the-mini-clubman-for-a-spin/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/15/fifth-gear-takes-the-mini-clubman-for-a-spin/#commentsFiled under: ,



The MINI Clubman isn't a major breakthrough over the current Cooper but it does have one glaring distinction worth taking a closer look at and that's the suicide-style rear opening door. Fifth Gear's Johnny Smith shows us all there is to like and loathe about the new car in sunny Madrid.

[Source: YouTube]




Continue reading Fifth Gear takes the MINI Clubman for a spin

Fifth Gear takes the MINI Clubman for a spin originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Oct 2007 18:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ClubmanFifth GearFifthGearMini ClubmanMiniClubmanMon, 15 Oct 2007 18:57:00 EST<![CDATA[More MINI SAV details emerge]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/10/more-mini-sav-details-emerge/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/10/more-mini-sav-details-emerge/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/10/more-mini-sav-details-emerge/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

When the X3 dries up, there'll still be a BMW trucklet for the Austrian assembly and engineering firm to bolt together. BMW's MINI brand has been reportedly getting an SAV (BMW parlance for CUV) for a while now, and that prospect looks like it's inching toward reality. Affixing the MINI badge to the pumped-up Clubman (see gallery below) might create a rolling misnomer, but that's supposedly the plan. Code named "Colorado", the ruggedized and raised MINI will be equipped with AWD calibrated for traction rather than performance. We'll wait to pass judgement on the styling while hoping that it doesn't look like the fanciful rendering at right (click here to see full view). Ugly or cute, if Magna Steyr hits its target, it'll be pumping out a targeted 80,000 of these things per year, starting in 2010.

[Source: Motoring File]

Gallery: 2008 MINI Clubman

More MINI SAV details emerge originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Oct 2007 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwclubmancuvminimini clubmanMiniClubmansavsuvWed, 10 Oct 2007 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[2008 MINI Challenge Series Clubman safety car, fastest Clubman to date]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/05/2008-mini-challenge-series-clubman-safety-car-fastest-clubman-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/05/2008-mini-challenge-series-clubman-safety-car-fastest-clubman-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/05/2008-mini-challenge-series-clubman-safety-car-fastest-clubman-t/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Our main-MINI-man Gabe over at MotoringFile procured a handful of shots showing the safety car for the 2008 MINI Challenge, and the series' organizers have commissioned a one-off Clubman S to be built with a host of modifications to make it track worthy. Although there's no mention of what changes were made under the hood, according to the site, a John Cooper Works (JCW) exhaust is fitted and the new rear spoiler will be an option for the Clubman come 2008. The obvious changes to ride height would imply that some serious suspension tweaks were in order, while the new front and rear diffuser could foretell the future of JCW-equipped Clubmans.

You can read over our previous posts about the MINI JCW Challenge racer here and here, and check out more shots of the Clubman safety car here.

[Source: MotoringFile]

2008 MINI Challenge Series Clubman safety car, fastest Clubman to date originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Oct 2007 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clubmanclubman sclubman safety carClubmanSClubmanSafetyCarjcwjcw clubmanJcwClubmanjohn cooper worksjohn cooper works clubmanJohnCooperWorksJohnCooperWorksClubmanminimini challengemini clubmanmini clubman sMiniChallengeMiniClubmanMiniClubmanSsafety carSafetyCarFri, 05 Oct 2007 16:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Pics Aplenty: MINI Clubman S]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/04/pics-aplenty-mini-clubman-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/04/pics-aplenty-mini-clubman-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/04/pics-aplenty-mini-clubman-s/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click the image above for a gallery of pics of the MINI Clubman.

MINI released a slew of new Clubman S pics for your viewing enjoyment and critical critique. There's not much more we can say, except that after enduring a journey in the back seat of our friend's R56 Cooper S over the weekend, the extra legroom and storage space should be a welcome addition. The extra power of the Clubman S, which boasts 175 HP compared to the standard model's 120 HP, is also much appreciated. Click the gallery below for over 60 live and press shots.

Gallery: 2008 MINI Clubman

Pics Aplenty: MINI Clubman S originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Oct 2007 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clubmanminimini clubmanmini clubman sMiniClubmanMiniClubmanSThu, 04 Oct 2007 12:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2007: MINI Clubman debuts in a club, man]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/11/frankfurt-2007-mini-clubman-debuts-in-a-club-man/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/11/frankfurt-2007-mini-clubman-debuts-in-a-club-man/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/11/frankfurt-2007-mini-clubman-debuts-in-a-club-man/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click image to see the media pic gallery with new live shots added from Frankfurt

With the DJ dutifully spinning his vinyl, the Clubman finally had its coming out party, and what a real party it was. The full range of standard, S, and D were all on hand to show off that new stretched shape with its right-hand suicide door and funky barn-door cargo ports out back. We've discussed this vehicle a lot and although some of the details seem less than purely functional, you have to expect that in a car that is all about image. We're sure it will still uphold the MINI reputation for excellent driving dynamics, but the looks just seem a bit fussy for some reason, leading some to question whether or not it will still be a true drivers car like its shorter brother. And yet the idea of a human sized back seat in a MINI seems very attractive. While there was some concern that making a big MINI would ruin the whole thing, we have to say that this rolling oxymoron looks quite compact in person still. We'll reserve judgment until we can get one for an extended drive, but it looks like this new "big" MINI still gets a spot on the party A-List for now.

Some stats from the press release are after the jump.

[Source: MINI]

Gallery: 2008 MINI Clubman

Continue reading Frankfurt 2007: MINI Clubman debuts in a club, man

Frankfurt 2007: MINI Clubman debuts in a club, man originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Sep 2007 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ClubmanFrankfurtMINI ClubmanMiniClubmanTue, 11 Sep 2007 13:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #75]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/24/autoblog-podcast-75/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/24/autoblog-podcast-75/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/24/autoblog-podcast-75/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

So, it's a couple days late - call it a summer vacation hangover and let's just move on. We had a busy weekend covering both the Woodward Dream Cruise and the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, which pushed our schedule back. Once in front of our mics, we start Autoblog Podcast #75 by mulling the 2008 Honda Accord. Damon regales us with the story of the Cadillac CTS media launch out at Laguna Seca. GM's made enough progress that we can just drop the "for a GM" modifier from the sentence "The new CTS is a great car." No longer able to heap abuse on the General, we look to Europe and find MINI. It seems nobody considered that the clamshell door setup on the Clubman should be engineered to swap sides, so it would always be on the passenger side, even in right-hand-drive countries. Whoops. Continuing with entertaining small cars, the Dodge Caliber SRT-4's pricing was announced. $23 large for 285 horsepower - such a deal. Big horsepower was also stuffed under a Toyota Aurion's Australian hood. The 320-odd horsepower Camry spinoff slaps our mamby-pamby weak-kneed Joe Camel Camry around pretty well. Don't change it, just send it. Speaking of car-lust, new DeLoreans are coming! $57,500 will buy you a hand built car that will net endless stupid-ass questions about the flux capacitor.

That's it - a meaty 51 minutes this week, enjoy!

SUBSCRIBE to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes
LISTEN to the show now
ADD the Autoblog Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator

Autoblog Podcast #75 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Aug 2007 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accordaurionautoblog podcastAutoblogPodcastcadillaccaliberclubmanctsdeloreandodgegmhondaminipebble beachPebbleBeachpodcastsrttoyotatrdwoodwardFri, 24 Aug 2007 14:31:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #75Dan Roth51:12autoblog, podcast, toyota, mini, clubman, aurion, delorean, cadillac, cts, gm, dodge, chrysler, caliber, srt, woodward, pebble, accord, honda, 2008<![CDATA[MINI admits the Clubman's "Clubdoor" might turn off buyers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/17/mini-admits-the-clubmans-clubdoor-might-turn-off-buyers/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/17/mini-admits-the-clubmans-clubdoor-might-turn-off-buyers/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/17/mini-admits-the-clubmans-clubdoor-might-turn-off-buyers/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click the image above for a gallery of high-res pics.

MINI execs have admitted that the design of the suicide-hinged door on the passenger side of the new Clubman may cause consumers both here, and especially abroad, to shy away from the more practical MINI. According to Autocar, the "Clubdoor's" position on the right-hand side could possibly detract from its functionality, as most British buyers will be getting in and out on the road, versus next to the sidewalk.

A MINI spokesman explained that the placement of the door on the right was dictated by the fuel-tank filler neck's place on the driver's side, and as such, it would have been too expensive to re-engineer the fuel door's location. The MINI mouthpiece went on to say that the automaker realizes this could be a bone of contention with buyers, but "we don't commit to making a car that doesn't bring us a profit." Since MINI projects that the Clubman will comprise approximately 25-percent of the automaker's sales in 2009, we hope that they're right.

[Source: Autocar]

Gallery: 2008 MINI Clubman

MINI admits the Clubman's "Clubdoor" might turn off buyers originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Aug 2007 18:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clubdoorclubmanclubman sClubmanScoopercooper sCooperSminiFri, 17 Aug 2007 18:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Clubman's U.S. debut moved to L.A. from Detroit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/06/clubmans-u-s-debut-moved-to-l-a-from-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/06/clubmans-u-s-debut-moved-to-l-a-from-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/06/clubmans-u-s-debut-moved-to-l-a-from-detroit/#commentsFiled under: , ,



By now there's not much left to debut, but MotoringFile says the Mini Clubman will have its official U.S. coming out party at the Los Angeles International Auto Show, which begins November 14.

This breaks with our earlier reporting that said the Mini wagon would be shown first in January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Which is another blow to the Detroit show.

As far as we know, the Clubman's first official debut is still penciled in for September at the Frankfurt Auto Show.

[Source: MotoringFile]

Gallery: 2008 MINI Clubman

Clubman's U.S. debut moved to L.A. from Detroit originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Aug 2007 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clubmanlos angeles auto showLosAngelesAutoShowmini clubmanMiniClubmanMon, 06 Aug 2007 09:01:00 EST