What to expect from the upcoming Mini Clubman

BMW is all set to introduce the Mini Clubman in India. The carmaker will launch the car in the Indian market on December 15, where they will announce the variant-wise prices as well. Here are some important facts and figures that we can expect from the big hatchback.

Design and dimensions

The 2017 Mini Clubman is based on BMW's front-wheel drive UKL platform. This new model flaunts a tweaked front fascia with a new grille, reworked headlamps and a redesigned bumper, while the rear sports a two-door boot lid layout. The Clubman is 4,253mm long, 1,800mm wide and 1,441mm tall. This makes it 270mm longer, 90mm wider than the Mini 5-door and also has 100mm longer wheelbase. The overall dimensions make it the longest Mini that one can buy.

Highlight

The new Clubman's barn door-style tailgate is the main feature of this vehicle. It opens up to a 360 litre boot that can be expanded to 1,250 litres by folding the 40:20:40 rear backrest.

Variants and Engine

BMW might launch the car in two variants - Cooper S Clubman and Cooper D Clubman. The former comes powered by a 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder petrol engine, while the latter packs a 2.0-litre TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder diesel mill. On the transmission front, there is an eight-speed automatic gearbox for both models. We expect the petrol to be launched first followed by the diesel.

What else should I know?

It will be the first time the carmaker will launch the Clubman in India. This upcoming model is the latest iteration of the vehicle, which was globally unveiled in July 2015. With its launch on December 15, the automaker will fulfil its promise of introducing the Clubman in India, as confirmed during the 2016 Auto Expo. The car will be brought to our country through the CBU route.