2008 MINI Cooper Clubman

Now able to fit even more clowns inside, the 2008 MINI Cooper Clubman arrives in Europe in late 2007 and hits U.S. shores in early 2008. With a wheelbase 10 inches longer than the MINI Cooper's, the Clubman is more passenger and cargo-oriented, with three of those inches going to increased rear legroom and the other seven going to a 9.1 cubic foot trunk - 60% more room than in the Cooper.  With the rear seats folded down, the Clubman can hold 33 cubic feet. Not bad for a car that's still smaller than the Honda Fit.

Looking exactly like a Cooper that's spent some time on the stretching machine, the 2008 Cooper Clubman also harks back to the MINI Traveller and Clubman Estate of the 1960s. In place of the wood paneling that flanked the rear window and dual rear barn doors, there is contrasting painted trim. Each barn door has its own handle and window wiper, and the twin doors allow easier access to the trunk. Another handy addition is the narrow third door on the passenger side. Dubbed the Clubdoor, it opens toward the rear in conjunction with the front door and allows somewhat better access to the rear seats.

Engine choices will be the same as the regular Cooper - either a naturally aspirated 1.6-liter inline 4 that produces 120 horsepower or a turbo version that delivers 175 hp and hits 0-60 in just over seven seconds (slightly slower than the Cooper, due to the extra weight). Buyers will get to select between a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission with sport-shift wheel paddles. Both models feature ABS brakes, traction and stability control, brake assist, a tire monitor, hill start assist, and six airbags, including head curtain bags for all passengers. European models come with regenerative braking and automatic idling shut-off, to decrease emissions, and a diesel engine option. MINI touts there will be 40 color combinations to choose from for both the body and rear trim.