Review Mini Clubman John Cooper Works

Combining a more practical and spacious body with the storming pace of the powerful JCW engine, the high-performance version of the MINI Clubman is a highly desirable hot hatch. Drive4.4 /5 Potent engine and firm ride Storming from 0-62mph in 6.8 seconds the JCW Clubman is surprisingly quick on the open road, it also offers lots of grip in the corners thanks to its wide tyres and very firm suspension. Only available with a six-speed manual gearbox the JCW is huge fun to drive but suffers on poorly surfaced roads. Track day fans can also opt for the JCW chassis option, which makes the ride even firmer. Reliability4.6 /5 Excellent attention to detail The MINI Clubman has an impressive reliability record and comes packed with safety features. A total of six airbags protect the occupants in the event of an accident, whilst stability control and ABS help avoid them altogether. The Interior is also very well made despite the highly styled dashboard and toggle switches. The standard MINI Cooper S on which it is based achieved a full, five-star Euro NCAP rating in 2007. Practicality3.9 /5 More spacious rear seats are very useful Smaller than average for this sector but 100 litres larger than the three-door MINI Hatchback, the Clubman JCW's boot measures 260 litres. The rear seats are a good size although the single rear door is fitted to the driver's side on UK spec, right-hand-drive cars meaning that when parked at the road-side, rear passengers face oncoming traffic when exiting the car. Value for money4.6 /5 The JCW model gets special 17-inch alloy wheels The high-performance MINI JCW Clubman costs approximately £4,000 more than the standard Clubman Cooper S and comes fitted with 17-inch alloy wheels, a racy bodykit and wide-set exhausts. The engine is also slightly more powerful. Although very exclusive and highly desirable, few customers will choose the performance model over the cheaper and softer Cooper S model. Running costs3.7 /5 Increased power comes at a cost Capable of returning 40mpg the Clubman JCW is hardly thirsty but it does drink more fuel than the standard model, especially if driven enthusiastically. Producing CO2 emissions of 166g/km, owners also face a larger annual Road Tax bill of £190.