Mini Clubman Cooper

FIRST UK DRIVE We try out revised model on its home turf

- James Batchelor

MINI’S Clubman has always suffered from an identity crisis. The first new generation car, with its rear door that opened on the driver’s side, was quaint, but a bit odd. This second-generation car is part hatch, part estate, but has just had a refresh.

This is it, and on the surface at least, not much has changed. MINI has chosen to lightly freshen the look, so the Clubman’s slightly confused personality remains. New lights and a larger grille brighten up the front, while there are also new, squarer door mirrors. But it’s at the rear where you’ll tell a facelifted Clubman from the old one.

The tail-lights are now full-LEDs and adopt the Union Flag design first seen on the MINI three and five-door hatch. With their wider, slimmer shape they are arguably less contrived than the Hatch’s design, but they remain a divisive feature. They’re a feature you’re stuck with, however, because MINI doesn’t offer the generic halogen lamps for those who don’t want to fly the flag. That wouldn’t be premium enough, says MINI.