MINI Clubman vs Volkswagen Golf vs Volvo V40 road test - pictures

<p class="p1">Can the new ‘six-door’ MINI Clubman beat conventional hatches from VW and Volvo?</p>

<p class="p1">This second-generation Clubman is based on the five-door hatch, and is technically a six-door model.</p>

<p class="p1">The <span class="s1">VW Golf</span> is pretty sensible in comparison, but it has similar boot space, while the 2.0 TDI diesel offers the same power as the Cooper D.</p>

<p class="p1">The Volvo is another hatch that is led by design, while again diesel power brings decent efficiency.</p>

<p class="p1">The Clubman’s double rear doors can be hard to open in tight spots.</p>

<p class="p1">There’s a raft of options on the Clubman, including a variety of wheel designs, contrast roof colours and interior upgrades.</p>

<p class="p1">Optional illuminated door trims in the Clubman add colour to the cabin at night.&nbsp;</p>

The rear seat space in the Clubman is the largest of the three models tested.

<p class="p1">There's no denying that the Clubman is the most <span class="s1">practical</span> new-generation MINI, thanks to its bigger boot.</p>

The winner:&nbsp;In some ways it’s the sensible choice, but the Golf’s depth of talent is something these two rivals struggle to match.