Mini Clubman gets new style, ekes out a bit more power

The Mini Clubman station wagon is getting updated for 2019 with new front and rear styling, interior enhancements, and even more technology features. It still retains traditional Mini styling cues such as round headlamps, a six-sided grille, and a hood bulge, as well as the Clubman’s split back doors.

The most noticeable styling change is a wider grille with horizontal elements for the Cooper and a honeycomb grid for Cooper S models. Mechanical changes include slightly more power from the available 3- and 4-cylinder engines, a new 7-speed dual clutch transmission that replaces the six- and eight-speed automatics previously available, and upgraded suspension options.

Though the new headlamp units are still distinctively Mini, they’ve been substantially upgraded with optional adaptive LED headlights with Matrix function and variable intensity, dazzle-free high beams. Those high beams are pretty trick, with four segments that can be turned on or off independently of each other and automatically activated according to what the front camera sees on the road. That allows brightness to be increased while reducing dazzle for oncoming drivers. An illuminated white ring surrounds the lamp, and functions as both a daytime running light and turn signal. LED fog lamps are standard and the diode-based taillights have been designed to feature horizontal turn signals and vertical brake lights.

An optional sport suspension lowers ride height by 04.inch, and adaptive shock absorbers with two driving modes are also available. Wheel choices span 16, 17, 18, and 19-inch aluminum options, depending on the model.

Power from the 1.5-liter turbo three in the Cooper has been increased slightly from 134 horsepower to 136 and the 2.0-liter turbo four in the Cooper S gets bumped from 189 to 192 hp. While the Mini Cooper D Clubman will be available in Europe, don’t expect a diesel version here in the States. So far there is no news on a hybrid version.

Available in Classic, Sport, or Exclusive trim lines, the 2019 Mini Clubman models all have Mini Navigation, Real Time Traffic Information, and Apple CarPlay, with a 6.5” display and Bluetooth connectivity as standard equipment. Also standard are automatic windshield wipers and headlights, an interior lighting package, and the Mini Excitement group that includes mood lighting, illuminated door handles, and the Mini logo projected on the ground when you open the door. Mini Connected Services are also standard, along with Intelligent Emergency Call (E-Call). Remote Services tells you where your car is parked, how much fuel you have along with other vehicle status details, as well as let you honk the horn, flash the headlights, turn on ventilation and lock or unlock the doors, all from your smartphone. Full leather seats are available, with Satellite Grey and Indigo Blue upholstery now offered.

For the time being, the Clubman is offered in Cooper and Cooper S variants. Mini says, though, that a high performance John Cooper Works Clubman is on the way.

The 2019 Mini Clubman goes on sale this month, starting at $27,700.