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Joining this club is all about space and access to it, so besides the split rear-cargo doors, there's a rear-hinged, half-door-size access panel on the passenger side that makes back-seat entry and egress a much easier proposition than in the coupe-all the better by which to enjoy the much-needed increased legroom.
Motor Trend »
Updates to the interior will help appease those, like us, who found the Mini’s ergonomics less than friendly.
Car and Driver »
Every compartment, toggle and switch functions with the usual high level of BMW confidence. But don't even get us started on the Toys R' Us-grade plastic. In this price range, a buyer deserves a little better.
Jalopnik »
Inside, the Mini Cooper is large enough to accommodate all sizes of drivers and front passengers in comfort. The rear seats in the hardtop allow four adults. With its hatchback and folding rear seats, the Mini Cooper can haul reasonable amounts of gear.
MyRide »
While the base Mini Cooper's rear seat is quite restricted, the Mini Cooper Clubman's second seating row is a viable space to put two adults. Be aware, however, that even with the extra size, the Clubman is still a small car, and as such the rear seat isn't exactly cavernous.
New Car Test Drive »
QUALITY | 7 out of 10
Expert Quotes:
Joining this club is all about space and access to it, so besides the split rear-cargo doors, there's a rear-hinged, half-door-size access panel on the passenger side that makes back-seat entry and egress a much easier proposition than in the coupe-all the better by which to enjoy the much-needed increased legroom.
Motor Trend
Updates to the interior will help appease those, like us, who found the Mini’s ergonomics less than friendly.
Car and Driver
Every compartment, toggle and switch functions with the usual high level of BMW confidence. But don't even get us started on the Toys R' Us-grade plastic. In this price range, a buyer deserves a little better.
Jalopnik
Inside, the Mini Cooper is large enough to accommodate all sizes of drivers and front passengers in comfort. The rear seats in the hardtop allow four adults. With its hatchback and folding rear seats, the Mini Cooper can haul reasonable amounts of gear.
MyRide
While the base Mini Cooper's rear seat is quite restricted, the Mini Cooper Clubman's second seating row is a viable space to put two adults. Be aware, however, that even with the extra size, the Clubman is still a small car, and as such the rear seat isn't exactly cavernous.
New Car Test Drive
Like the original Mini Countryman and Traveller, the 2011 MINI Cooper Clubman adds essential rear-seat room and cargo space to the Cooper hatch's platform, making it easier to access and use.
Despite the minimal road noise, every MINI we've tested have had their share of creaks, squeaks, and rattles from the interior plastic trim pieces--an indication that the style and panache of the interior's design comes at the cost of material and build quality, and something you don't expect given the MINI's steep price tag.
At 9.4 inches longer overall and 3.2 inches longer in wheelbase than the Cooper hatchback, it's still compact enough to be small, while improving comfort throughout the cabin.
Access to the 32.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded or 9.1 cubic feet with the seats up is provided by the rear split-opening door, and made truly useful with a flat load floor.
Conclusion
A few inches of wheelbase gives the 2011 MINI Cooper Clubman a far more practical rear seat and cargo area; quality's still an issue.