2024 Mini Cooper Clubman JCW Review, Pricing, and Specs

Overview

This is not your grandfather’s wood-panelled, road-hogging station wagon. This is the 2024 Mini Cooper Clubman JCW, and its compact body hides a sporty chassis underneath while its retro-cute face hides a fiery 302-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine. However, this is a wagon meant more for hauling dirt than hauling cargo, and compact hatchbacks like the Honda Civic Type R and the Volkswagen Golf R offer a similar amount of space inside. It is intended to be a more practical version of the small Mini Cooper JCW and by that measure it is successful. The Clubman JCW is a joy to drive on a winding back road and its muscular engine has plenty of snarl. The ride is firm, which may turn some drivers off—but for them, the standard Clubman S (reviewed separately) may offer the better balance of comfort and athleticism they’re looking for.

What’s new for 2024?

The Clubman JCW doesn’t see any significant changes for 2024, but Mini has said that the Untold Edition model that was supposed to be a one-year run for 2023 will be included in the lineup for a second year.

Prices and which one to buy

The Cooper Clubman JCW requires a big investment for such a small car, so we’ll take it easy on options. Upgrading to the Signature trim brings 18-inch wheels, an adaptive suspension, a Harman/Kardon sound system and a panoramic sunroof. You also get in-dash navigation, Apple CarPlay and a digital gauge display. It’s a nice package for the price.

Engine, transmission and performance

The JCW upgrade from the midsize S model is nothing to scoff at: The S has a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 189 horsepower, but the JCW is a stronger cut, with 302 horsepower. The Clubman’s long wheelbase is more adept at handling bumps and pavement imperfections than the smaller Cooper models, making it more comfortable for road trips. That advantage disappears once the Clubman is tuned for performance by JCW. Its lowered and stiffened suspension makes the ride brittle, making it less enjoyable as a daily driver. Steering is heavy and quick, and turn-in is precise, but it’s not quite the go-kart experience we’ve come to expect from Minis.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Even with its performance aspirations, the Clubman JCW still gets decent fuel economy, with 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. And while we didn’t test the Clubman’s turbo four on our 75-mph highway test route, know that the lower-powered 2019 model outperformed its EPA rating in the real world, posting a result of 32 mpg delivered. For more information on the Clubman JCW’s fuel consumption, visit the EPA’s website.

Interior, comfort and cargo

While some may be turned off by the Clubman’s unconventional interior setup, there’s no denying that this car stands out from the understated styling of the Subaru Outback. Cabin materials aren’t up to par for the entry-luxury prices, but this car’s unique layout and unusual design make up for it. Those who appreciate it will probably dig the airplane-style shifters, the checkered flag accents, and the in-your-face circular infotainment surround. Those not so easily amused will feel some frustration with the small hard-to-read gauge cluster, the oddly placed infotainment dial controller and the cheapo surfaces. What this car gains in style points, it loses in practicality. The Clubman’s hinged rear doors and fold-flat rear seat make it easy for owners to load things into the boot. There’s not a lot of room for that stuff, though, because this Mini is, well, mini. The cabin’s cubbies are equally frugal, with storage space for phones and not much else. However, a giant bin under the cargo floor provides some additional utility.

Infotainment and connectivity

Like most things with the Clubman, if you want the good infotainment stuff, you’ll have to hand over the cash. The Touchscreen Navigation package allows buyers to equip their cars with Apple CarPlay capability and navigation. The standard system is equipped with voice controls and Bluetooth connectivity.

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

A basic suite of driver assistance features comes standard, but buyers looking for more high-tech features will need to add the Driver Assistance package. For more information on the Clubman JCW’s crash test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

• Standard automatic emergency brake
• Standard lane departure warning
• Adaptive cruise control available

Warranty and Maintenance Cover

Minis offer slightly better warranties than many other small cars. Only Volvo and sister brand BMW compatible with Mini’s program of three years of included scheduled maintenance.

• Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• Complimentary maintenance is covered for three years or 36,000 miles

More features and specifications