• 2013 Mini Cooper Clubman

• 2012 Mini Cooper Clubman
• Repairs Mini Cooper Clubman

Scorecard

Overall:	2013 Mini Cooper Clubman U.S. News Best Cars 7.7
Critics' Rating:	8.2
Performance:	8.3
Interior:	6.4
Safety:	N/A
Reliability:

How we calculate scores

Research analyzed for this review

Notable for 2013

• Standard Bluetooth
• Automatic transmission available on John Cooper Works models

Pros & Cons

• Engaging performance
• Three powerful engine choices
• Good fuel economy

• Cramped back seat
• Little cargo space behind rear seats
• Confusing interior controls

Research Other Years

• 2012 Mini Cooper Clubman
• 2011 Mini Cooper Clubman
• 2010 Mini Cooper Clubman
• 2009 Mini Cooper Clubman
• 2008 Mini Cooper Clubman

The 2013 Mini Cooper Clubman ranks 24 out of 43 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 34 published reviews and test drives of the Mini Cooper Clubman, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

Reviewers think the 2013 Mini Cooper Clubman is a top performer thanks to its agile handling and powerful engine options, but they say rival cars have more practical passenger and cargo accommodations.

The 2013 Mini Cooper Clubman can come with one of three four-cylinder engines. The base engine makes 121 horsepower. The Cooper S and John Cooper Works models have turbocharged engines making 181 and 208 horsepower, respectively. Most reviewers are pleased with each of these engines. Some even say the base model’s engine power is just fine for everyday driving. All models have a standard six-speed manual transmission, which some reviewers prefer over the optional six-speed automatic. They like the manual because they say it seems to improve acceleration. The Cooper Clubman’s fuel economy is good for the class, reaching an EPA-estimated 27/35 mpg city/highway with the base engine and either transmission. According to the automotive press, the Mini Cooper Clubman is one of the most engaging cars in the class to drive, thanks to its agile handling, which makes it fun to whip around corners and easy to maneuver in tight areas. Some reviewers say the Cooper Clubman’s sporty driving dynamics come at the cost of ride quality, which they say is bumpy. Though it has good overall performance, the Cooper Clubman has a below-average reliability score, which may make competitors, like the Mazda3 that have good performance and reliability ratings, appealing alternatives.

Test drivers like the Cooper Clubman’s well-made, retro-inspired cabin, but they say its interior tech features are confusing. The Cooper Clubman’s standard features include Bluetooth, a USB port and HD Radio, which is good for the class, but reviewers find the climate, stereo and optional infotainment system frustrating to use. The Mini Cooper Clubman seats four, and test drivers say its cabin is small. Reviewers do appreciate that it offers more cargo space than the Mini Cooper Hardtop, but say that the room available with the rear seats up pales in comparison with the rest of the class. They add that the rear seats are cramped for adults. The second row is also hard to enter and exit, but critics like that the passenger-side access door makes it easier to get in and out of the cabin.  

• "Mini Clubman may look like an economy car, but this Best Buy is actually a sporty driving machine that brims with character." -- Consumer Guide (2012)
• "But for style, daily livability and countless ways to personalize and let your freak flag fly (which Mini might even be able to put on your Mini's roof, since there's a selection of optional decals from which to choose), the Clubman is hard to beat." -- Edmunds (2012)
• "The car has a striking appearance and exhibits very fun handling." -- CNET (2011)

Other Cars to Consider

If you’re drawn to the Clubman’s nimble driving dynamics, but want a car with more passenger and cargo space, consider the Volkswagen GTI. The base GTI will cost you a few thousand more than the base Cooper Clubman, but the base GTI makes 200 horsepower compared with the base Cooper Clubman’s 121 horsepower. The GTI is also a reviewer favorite for its upscale cabin, comfortable seats and good fuel economy.

Reviewers are drawn to the Hyundai Veloster’s unique exterior styling and plentiful standard features, which include a touch-screen and USB port. The Veloster’s handling can’t match the Cooper Clubman’s, but its base engine is more powerful and there’s also an optional turbocharged engine. Like the Cooper Clubman, the Veloster seats four, however, it still isn’t the most spacious second-row in the class. The Veloster has more cargo space.

Compare the Cooper Clubman, GTI and Veloster »

Details: 2013 Mini Cooper Clubman

The 2013 Mini Cooper Clubman is available in base, Cooper S and John Cooper Works models. All models have a four-cylinder engine, but each has a different horsepower rating. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, and a six-speed automatic is optional. The base Cooper Clubman comes with Bluetooth, a USB port and HD Radio; a navigation system and infotainment system are available. The Cooper Clubman hasn’t changed much since it debuted in the United States in 2008. As a result, this overview uses applicable research and reviews from 2008 to 2013.

See the full 2013 Mini Cooper Clubman specs »