Report: Mini Clubman-based “Clubvan” gets greenlight for production, will come stateside

Some new reports are out surrounding the Mini Clubman-based “Clubvan” Concept that debuted at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The Clubvan Concept itself is basically a Mini Clubman except larger and with a reverse opening rear door on the passenger side, and some courier labeling on the panels and windows.

But the piece of news that’s more important is that the Mini Clubvan was reportedly approved for production with a version coming stateside in September of 2013.

Mini said that this was their plan to try and pitch to the niche of small commercial deliverers and couriers. And this is because majority of those in Europe, most particularly in the UK, those who deliver things usually stick to the very well established, tried, tested and true, and much larger Ford Transit van.

But specifically for the US, the Clubvan pitches itself as a small alternative to those who want something smaller and more stylish than Mercedes-Benz Sprinter or the Ford Transit Connect.

Mini didn’t exactly say what the Clubvan would be powered by, but as of now, they’re toying between the Clubman’s 121hp naturally aspirated four-banger, or the Clubman S’s 181hp turbocharged four-pot.

– By: Chris Chin

Source: CARandDRIVER