Why the MINI Clubman is going out of production
MINI Clubman an icon
An estate from MINI, that’s the MINI Clubman. It is an iconic model that has been around longer than you might think. In fact, the original classic Mini Clubman dates back to 1969. Designer Roy Haynes once told the following: “The impression that only ugly things can be functional is now gone.”
In 2007, a new Clubman
The Mini Clubman became a hit and conquered the market until 1981 as a compact station wagon with an extended wheelbase and a “shooting brake” body. The 2007 MINI Clubman was a modern interpretation of the classic shooting brake concept. The rear seat was accessible only through the right rear door, which opened backwards. There was no rear door on the left side. With the third model generation from 2015, the MINI Clubman grew to 4.25 meters in length. This made it one of the largest MINI models ever. It also became a bit roomier and the model had two full-sized rear doors. That turned out to be a bit more convenient in practice.
Why is the MINI Clubman going out of production?
After more than 50 years, production of the MINI Clubman is ending. In February 2024, the time will come. But why is the Clubman going out of production? The reason is simple: to make room for the new generation of MINI models. The manufacturer must look critically at available production sites. There is no longer room in the brand’s future plans for a car like the Clubman. The focus is increasingly on compact crossovers.
So the Clubman stops, just like that?
MINI thankfully does say goodbye in style. Behold, in fact, the MINI Clubman Final Edition. Limited to 1,969 units, the Final Edition of the MINI Clubman refers to the year the original Mini Clubman was introduced. Thirty copies are coming to the Netherlands.
MINI Clubman Final Edition
The Final Edition is available as a Cooper or Cooper S. There is a choice of body colors Nanuq White, Enigmatic Black and Melting Silver III. Items such as the grille surround and top edge of the cross member in the grille are finished in Shimmer Copper color: a reference to the Clubman’s design history. The 18-inch wheels have a Shimmer Copper tint. A glossy “Final Edition” lettering is another feature of the special edition, as is the “1 of 1,969” badge on the C-pillars. The Union Jack taillights allude to the British origins of the MINI Clubman.
Interior
The trims feature model-specific “Final Edition” lettering, which is also reflected on the lower spoke of the Nappa leather-clad sports steering wheel. The leather-trimmed MINI Yours sport seats and sewn-in Final Edition logo are finished in Dark Maroon. Inserts of anthracite pique fabric and blue stitching provide a striking contrast. MINI previously used these seats in the exclusive MINI 60 Years Edition. Optionally, the MINI Clubman Final Edition is available with MINI Yours Leather Carbon Black sport seats. On the front passenger, a “1 of 1,969” badge is a further reminder of the exclusivity of this version. A similar badge is also found on the Velour floor mats.
Manufacturing
Production of the 1,969 units of the MINI Clubman Final Edition will begin in July 2023. Booking the car through the MINI dealer is already possible. Prices will follow in early June 2023.
