New Car Review Mini Offers First Specs on Five-Door 2008 Clubman

The Mini Clubman has gone from Frankfurt concept car to production reality in less than two years. Formerly known as the Traveller, the Clubman is the second in what corporate parent BMW indicates could be a whole range of body styles.

Riding on a longer wheelbase than its standard siblings, the five-door aims to give the Mini lineup a hint more versatility. It maintains the retro look that's made the regular Mini such a hit, but with the addition of three extra doors — a short one along the rear right-hand side and two side-opening doors at the rear to facilitate loading. Prices have not yet been announced.

Mini plans to offer the Clubman with a choice of turbocharged or non-turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engines. The naturally aspirated engine produces 120 horsepower and 118 pound-feet of torque, while the turbo in the Clubman S produces 175 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque. In Europe, Mini is also offering a 1.6-liter common-rail diesel making 110 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque. The Clubman will be offered with a six-speed manual with an optional six-speed automatic.

While Mini is remaining tight-lipped about the specific sales date, the Clubman will go on sale sometime in 2008.