Mini has moved forward with its Clubvan concept that debuted at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, kicking into production as ‘the world’s first premium compact delivery van.’
The van has been modified from the Clubman it is based on with the removal of most of the interior components including the rear seat bench and boot floor, making way for the 860 total liters of load space. A fixed partition has been added separating the passenger space from the load area and the rear side windows have been blocked. The cargo space is 45.3 inches in length, and 40.2 inches wide at its most narrow point, with a maximum payload capacity of 1,102 lbs.
Three different engines are available to power the model, starting with the 1.6-liter petrol that goes from 0-62mph in 11.1 seconds and has a top speed of 115mph from its 97 hp. Average fuel economy for this variant comes in at 42.8 mpg.
The second power option is for the Cooper Clubvan sporting, featuring a 1.6-liter petrol motor that makes 121 hp, with a top speed of 125 mph and a 0-62mph time of 9.8 seconds.
Third up in the line up is the Cooper D, making 110 hp from its four-cylinder diesel, giving it a top speed of 122.4 mph and a 0-62 mph time of 10.2 seconds. The average mpg rating for this model is 60.3 mpg.
Only the Cooper D Clubvan comes with the option of an automatic transmission, as all the models come standard mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox.
The Clubvan is scheduled to hit showrooms in fall, meanwhile look for Clubvan’s production debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed next weekend.
- By: Alexandra Koken
