5 Cars That Prove the New MINI Clubman Isn't MINI at All

Jason Siu
by Jason Siu

The redesigned 2016 MINI Clubman has officially debuted, but it’s not quite as MINI as you might think.

Measuring 168.3 inches in length, the MINI Clubman is actually longer than a lot of cars offered today, but there are some that might surprise you. It’s a sign of change for the MINI brand — since its inception, the automaker has been known for building subcompact, fun-to-drive cars. In a sign of how things are changing and a testament to how much people love crossovers, the new MINI Clubman offers plenty more space for cargo and passengers, but it’s not quite mini. Here are five surprising cars that this not-so-mini MINI is bigger than.

SEE ALSO: MINI Unveils Redesigned, Larger 2016 Clubman

Nissan Juke – 162.4 inches

The MINI Clubman is nearly half-a-foot longer than the Nissan Juke, the funky crossover that appears much bigger than it actually is. Believe it or not, the 2016 MINI Clubman is also wider than the Nissan Juke, which measures 69.5 inches compared to the Clubman’s 70.9 inches.


Jeep Wrangler – 164.3 inches

One would think with Jeep’s off-road reputation that there’s no way a MINI could be larger than any model from the American automaker’s lineup. But that’s the case with not just one, but two Jeep models being shorter than the new Clubman. Although the Wrangler is shorter, it is wider at 73.7 inches.


Jeep Renegade – 166.6 inches

The other Jeep model that the 2016 MINI Clubman is longer than is the Jeep Renegade. The Clubman is almost two inches longer than the compact Jeep model, but is comparable to its 71-inch width.


Chevrolet Trax – 167.2 inches

Another crossover that is smaller than the 2016 MINI Clubman is the Chevrolet Trax, which measures 167.2 inches long. The Clubman is also an inch wider than the Trax’s 69.9-inch width.


Scion xB – 168.1 inches

Last but not least, the Scion xB is just a bit shorter than the MINI Clubman and is also narrower at 69.3-inches wide. If one thing has been made more clear with the debut of the 2016 MINI Clubman, it’s that MINI’s models are deceptively small and might not actually be as mini as the British automaker wants you to believe.

Discuss this story at our MINI Forum

Jason Siu
Jason Siu

Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.

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  • Gary Moeller Gary Moeller on Jul 01, 2015

    I own a 2009 Clubman S and love it. I do wish that it was a bit wider since my wife and I bash elbows on occasion. We are big people. I love the response of the engine with the stick, but having driven a Mini with the auto, I don't think I would buy one. I bought mine used and when it was time to put new tires on the 17" wheels, I sprang for Ultra Performance All Season Bridgestones. The car felt like a different car! It drove like it was on rails, regardless of the weather. Overall, my wife and I both thoroughly enjoy driving the car. In addition, you would be surprised what we can stuff in the back with the seats down.

    • Dannbunn Dannbunn on Sep 02, 2015

      As you said, you are BIG people, well,hear this, take a hint from the name of this used to be great little car. M I N I. Does that give you a hint, as to what this is supposed to be. I guess the Germans are intent on on screwing this little car up, as they have done everything else.

  • Freddyh Freddyh on Jul 01, 2015

    Mini is not British - it is owned by BMW and the Clubman is manufactured in Austria!

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