Mini One Clubman Tyldesley

The Mini Clubman gains a new, entry-level model from the end of March. So far the reborn Traveller has only been available in the more premium Cooper and Cooper S trims, with even a hot JCW version around the corner.

It’s now been bestowed with the entry level One trim that’s highly popular on the standard hatchback Mini, though. It means a 95bhp 1.4-litre engine with 103lb ft and some modest performance figures in the shape of 0-62mph in 11.6sec and a 114mph top speed. The petrol unit manages 52.3mpg while fitting into tax band C with 130g/km of carbon emissions. It’s about 16mpg short of the Cooper D and a tax band higher, but at £13,290 it’s also over £2k cheaper. Being a Mini, it’ll have pretty strong residuals, too.

It comes with a six-speed manual as standard with a dual-mode six-speed auto on the options list, while start-stop tech and regenerative brakes come as part of the package. It’s the first Mini Clubman with C-pillars in a matching hue to silver or black painted cars, with Coopers getting contrasting colour schemes to set them apart. Air conditioning is now standard across all Minis.

Admittedly changes to the Mini range aren’t earth shattering, but with the brand’s UK sales dropping now is the time to introduce cheaper models and better value to help pick things up. If anyone can turn it around in the current market conditions, surely Mini can.

The One Clubman debuts at the Geneva motor show in March, but can be ordered now. Read about David Vivian's long term Mini Cooper S Clubman or John Barker's review of the car.

Author: Stephen Dobie

Mini One Clubman