2012 MINI Cooper Clubman vs. Its Competition
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While the Clubman's unique styling slots it into a somewhat more retro place in a largely modern segment, it competes on level ground in terms of performance, particularly with the Volkswagen GTI and Audi A3.
Both offer more room for passengers while maintaining a sporty feel, but lack the eye-catching style of the Clubman.
The A3 is also even pricier than the MINI, but does offer a diesel engine, which could interest greener-minded buyers.
Mazda's Mazdaspeed3 is almost in a different category in terms of performance, its potent turbo engine accelerating like a much more expensive sports car.
Space for cargo and people is also good in the Mazdaspeed3, though it suffers from the same interior materials concerns as the MINI, and perhaps to a larger degree.
The Mazda, however, is the value leader of the group, and sports a great reputation for reliability and mechanical build quality.
 2012 MINI Cooper ClubmanGet FREE Price Quote |  2012 Audi A3Get FREE Price Quote |  2012 Volkswagen GTIGet FREE Price Quote |
|---|---|---|
| Quick Specs | ||
| Meta Rating | ||
More capacity, more practicality, and just as much sport and style, the 2012 MINI Cooper Clubman strikes a balance between family and fun. | The fashionable, versatile 2012 Audi A3 is as deft for the city commute as it is at ease on the highway. | It isn't the fastest or flashiest sporty hatchback around, but the 2012 Volkswagen GTI may well be the most balanced, carrying forward its legacy into the 21st century. |
| MSRP From | ||
| $21,200 | $27,270 | $23,995 |
| Gas Mileage | ||
| 25 MPG City / 35 MPG Hwy | 21 MPG City / 42 MPG Hwy | 21 MPG City / 33 MPG Hwy |
| Engine | ||
| Gas 4-Cyl | Turbocharged Gas I4 | Turbocharged Gas I4 |
| EPA Class | ||
| Subcompact | Small Station Wagons | Compact Cars |
| Style Name | ||
| 2-Door Coupe | 4-Door HB Man FrontTrak 2.0T Premium | 2-Door HB Man |
| Drivetrain | ||
| Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
| Passenger Capacity | ||
| 4 | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Doors | ||
| N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Body Style | ||
| Coupe | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Transmission | ||
| Manual | Manual | Manual |
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