MINI Clubman vs MINI Cooper D vs Peugeot 207 SW

One question that had been on everyone’s lips was finally answered at the end of the year. How practical is the new MINI Clubman? It’s only just gone on sale, but are the early buyers making a mistake and getting a car with few advantages over the standard MINI hatchback – in this case, a Cooper D variant? And if you do need a small estate that really is versatile, how does the Clubman stack up against
the Peugeot 207 SW? We put our tape measures to work to find out.

In terms of size, the Clubman falls exactly midway between its two rivals – 220mm shorter than the French machine, but 219mm longer than the Cooper D. The same applies inside, where it lags well behind the Peugeot – the newcomer’s 260-litre boot is 77 litres smaller. And, with the 50:50 split seatbacks folded (pull a single latch and they drop forward), the overall load length is 160mm shorter. It’s a significant step over the three-door – but don’t forget the standard MINI has long been recognised as one of the least practical small cars on the market. Bigger though the Clubman is, its estate body layout is no more generous inside than that of many firms’ superminis.

But the tale of the tape is only half the story. Road test editor Oliver Marriage took his family along to really test the Clubman’s capabilities. Although the 207 SW is a thoughtfully designed car with excellent adaptability – as is evident from features such as its low sill height and separate opening tailgate glass – the MINI is more fun. And not just to drive, but to use.

It places the emphasis on doing things differently. The rear-hinged side door ensures easy access to the back seats, and once in, the Clubman’s extended wheelbase means legroom is a match for the Peugeot, while the van-style rear doors open on gas struts and incorporate useful pockets. These features may seem like novelties – and it must be said that they do have drawbacks, not least access in tight spaces. So compared to the Peugeot you have to be prepared to compromise, but the maxi-MINI is better thought out than many have given it credit for.

Isofix child seats are simple to attach, there’s a spacious underfloor area, quality is way ahead of the Peugeot and with careful planning, it can cope with family outings – it certainly swallows bikes and buggies without much problem.

The fact it’s beautifully finished, great to drive, cheap to run and has a range of extremely clean and efficient engines more than offsets the higher asking price and lack of equipment. Although it’s not as capable as the 207 SW, the Clubman is a happy hauler that never fails to raise a smile, and is an altogether better practical prospect than the standard car. It could well be the Christmas present you’ve always promised yourself.