Closing the doors on a 55-year legacy, the last MINI Clubman was produced at MINI Plant Oxford on February 5, 2024. This heartfelt moment marked the end of an era for this remarkable model. Since its debut in 1969, drivers have praised the MINI Clubman for its exceptional style and iconic rear split doors. As MINI transitions to its new all-electric lineup, we reflect on the history and legacy of the MINI Clubman.
A Step Back in Time
The MINI Clubman's origins trace back to the early 1960s with the introduction of the Austin Seven Countryman and Morris Mini Traveller by the British Motor Corporation (BMC). The MINI Clubman began in the early 1960s with the Austin Seven Countryman and Morris Mini Traveller by the British Motor Corporation (BMC). These cars had a more extended chassis and rear barn doors, making them more spacious and practical for everyday use. This innovative design quickly gained popularity among drivers who appreciated the added utility without sacrificing the MINI's iconic compact form.
In 1967, designer Roy Haynes combined features from various Mini models to create the Clubman, which debuted in 1969. The Clubman was also known for its angular design and distinctive front nose. The lineup included a saloon, an estate, and the 1275 GT, a model celebrated in motorsport and loved by enthusiasts car enthusiasts across South Bay
The Rebirth
After a 25-year break, the MINI Clubman was reintroduced in 2007. This modern rendition retained a hallmark of the original design: the rear split doors. However, engineers at MINI Plant Oxford had to ensure the doors could open fully without blocking the rear lights to comply legally. The modern Clubman also introduced the Clubdoor, a special rear-hinged door for easier access to the back seats.
This rear-hinged, asymmetrical door required precise engineering to ensure it was flush and watertight to decrease the noise and ensure safety. MINI overcame this challenge to maintain its design legacy while modernizing it for drivers who value prestige like those in Torrance.
From Clubman to Clubvan
In 2013, MINI introduced the powerful Clubvan, a stylish and compact delivery van that took design cues from the iconic Morris Mini Van. The Clubvan had five doors, yet it housed only two seats. This design was generously spacious and easily accessible, loading any loading area in Inglewood with a level floor.
This model was the perfect business companion with a maximum payload capacity of 500 kilograms, a protective bulkhead, and sturdy attachment loops. These adaptable features were a reliable choice for businesses serving the needs of Inglewood and beyond.
Third Generation MINI Clubman
The third generation of the MINI Clubman debuted in 2015, delivering increased boot capacity, four full-sized doors, and an 8 speed Steptronic transmission. New features included an electric parking brake, total electric seat adjustment, and backlit door bezels. In 2016, they introduced the Clubman ALL-4, MINI's first all-wheel drive model offering better traction and control in various driving conditions. These advancements ensured the Clubman remained competitive and appealing to drivers in Manhattan Beach.
The Final Edition
In 2023, MINI released The Final Edition of the Clubman. This MINI model left drivers in Carson mesmerized. This special edition of the MINI brand had unique design features like a Shimmer Copper radiator grille, side scuttles, and 18-inch Final Edition Spoke 2-tone alloy wheels. The MINI brand only created 1,969 units of The Final Edition to honor the original launch year of the Clubman and celebrate its rich history and lasting impact on automotive history.
Get Behind the Wheel of History
The MINI Clubman's production has ended after more than 1.1 million units were produced by the BMW Group and exported to over 50 countries. Drivers will remember the MINI Clubman's as an innovative testament to style as MINI moves towards an all-electric future. For more information and to explore the new MINI family, visit South Bay MINI at South Bay MINI.
