It’s the news small, boutique-type businesses have been waiting for: the new Mini Clubvan, will start at £11,175 (excl VAT) when it goes on sale.
While it’s the seventh model in the current Mini line-up, importantly it’s also the first new-generation Mini to be classified as a commercial vehicle: and that means business buyers can claim back VAT.
Inspired by the 1960s Morris Mini van — I actually learned to drive in my dad’s blue mini van, with no synchromesh between first and second — the two-seater has a maximum 860 litres of load capacity. It also comes with a maximum payload capacity of 500kg.
The cargo space — which stretches back 1150mm and at its narrowest point behind the rear doors is 1020mm wide — can be accessed through either the twin opening rear doors, or the rear door on the driver’s side.
The completely flat load bay and rear load area features multiple 12-volt sockets for charging electric items and six heavy-duty attachment loops to secure cargo.
The dimensions of the Clubvan are identical to the 3961mm long, 1683mm wide and 1426mm high Clubman.
As you might expect with Mini, the Clubvan will come with a long list of customisation options, plus a high-level of standard equipment, including air-con, a DAB radio, multiple airbags and electric windows.
It’s something of a headturner too. Not only is there an anthracite roof liner, but the side rear windows are body-coloured and reinforced, and the rear windows are tinted.
There will be three engine choices for Clubvan owners: a 97bhp petrol for the £11,175 One, a 120bhp petrol for the £12,475 Cooper, and a 110bhp oil-burner for the £13,600 Cooper D.
A six-speed manual gearbox is standard across the range, but there is a £910 six-speed auto option for the Cooper D.
About Jim McGill
Jim McGill is an award-winning motoring and motorsport journalist with more than 25 years' industry experience. He contributes to a number of newspapers and magazines, including The Times, Telegraph, Daily Mail, Scotsman, Sunday Herald and AA Magazine.
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