The 2018 MINI Clubman is a distinctive compact car that blends unique styling with practicality. As a four-door hatchback with a split rear door, it offers a more versatile take on the traditional MINI formula. The Clubman has been part of the MINI lineup since 2007, with the second generation, including the 2018 model, introduced in 2016. Key trims typically include the Cooper, Cooper S, and performance-oriented John Cooper Works (JCW). New pricing for the 2018 model ranged from approximately $27,000 to $40,000. Its popularity stems from its quirky charm, engaging driving dynamics, and a surprisingly spacious interior for its size, making it a stand-out choice for those seeking individuality.
The Good
The 2018 MINI Clubman offers a fun-to-drive experience with nimble handling and peppy engine options, appealing to driving enthusiasts. Its quirky, stylish design turns heads, satisfying emotional desires. Practically, it boasts a more usable cargo space and rear seat than other MINIs, coupled with decent fuel economy and good build quality for value.
The Bad
Potential buyers of the 2018 MINI Clubman should be aware of a firmer ride compared to some rivals, potentially higher maintenance costs than average for its class, and a slightly less intuitive infotainment system for some users. Rear visibility can also be compromised by the split tailgate design.
2018 Mini Clubman: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
The 2018 MINI Clubman offered two primary engine choices for most markets:- Cooper: A 1.5-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder gasoline engine.
- Cooper S: A 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder gasoline engine.
- John Cooper Works (JCW): The JCW variant typically featured an uprated version of the 2.0-liter turbo-four.
- Horsepower:
- Cooper: Approximately 134 horsepower.
- Cooper S: Approximately 189 horsepower.
- John Cooper Works: Approximately 228 horsepower.
- Fuel Economy:
Fuel economy varied by engine and transmission, but generally offered good efficiency for its class:- Cooper (automatic): Around 27-28 MPG city / 35-37 MPG highway.
- Cooper S (automatic): Around 23-24 MPG city / 31-33 MPG highway.
- 0-60 Times:
These are approximate and can vary based on transmission, driver, and conditions:- Cooper: Around 8.9-9.0 seconds.
- Cooper S: Around 6.9-7.0 seconds.
- John Cooper Works: Around 5.9-6.0 seconds.
- Towing Capacity:
MINI vehicles, including the Clubman, are generally not designed or advertised for towing. Towing capacity is typically not a specified feature. - Trim-Level Features:
Key features varied significantly across trims and optional packages:- Base (Cooper): Standard features often included manual climate control, push-button start, power windows/locks, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 6.5-inch display.
- Cooper S: Added sportier styling cues, upgraded brakes, sport seats, and often included more premium features as standard or available options.
- John Cooper Works (JCW): Featured performance-oriented upgrades such as sport suspension, aggressive body kit, performance exhaust, unique interior trim, and sport seats.
- Common Optional Features Across Trims: Premium sound systems, navigation, heated seats, panoramic sunroof, advanced driver-assistance systems (e.g., parking assist, adaptive cruise control), leather upholstery, and larger infotainment screens (e.g., 8.8-inch).
2018 Mini Clubman Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2018 |
| Make | Mini |
| Model | Clubman |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Type | Wagon |
| Category | Mid-Size Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United Kingdom |
| Manufacturing City | OXFORD |
Dimensions
| Doors | 3-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 56.70 inches |
| Overall Length | 168.30 inches |
| Overall Width | 70.90 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 105.10 inches |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.0-L L-4 DOHC 16V Turbo |
| Engine Size | 2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $28,450 |
| Invoice Price | $26,375 |
| Delivery Charges | $850 |
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What Problems Does the 2018 Mini Clubman Have?
The 2018 MINI Clubman, while generally considered a solid vehicle, has had some reported issues and recalls. One of the more common mechanical concerns mentioned by owners relates to the turbocharger, particularly on the Cooper S models, with reports of leaks or reduced performance over time. Some owners have also experienced issues with the transmission, specifically with automatic transmissions exhibiting rough shifting or hesitation. Another area that sometimes surfaces is related to electrical systems, such as sensor malfunctions or issues with the infotainment system freezing or becoming unresponsive.
There were also recalls issued for the 2018 MINI Clubman. A notable recall involved the fuel pump, which could fail, potentially leading to stalling. Another recall pertained to the airbag system, specifically concerning a faulty component in the passenger-side airbag. It's crucial for potential buyers to check if any outstanding recalls have been addressed on a specific used vehicle.
Regarding long-term reliability, MINI vehicles, in general, can sometimes have higher maintenance costs compared to more mainstream brands. While the 2018 Clubman is built with solid German engineering (BMW parent company), components like turbos, complex electrical systems, and specialized parts can be more expensive to repair or replace once the warranty expires. Reliability ratings from sources like Consumer Reports often place MINI in the average to slightly below average category, suggesting that proactive maintenance is key to ensuring longevity. Issues might become more prevalent after the 70,000-100,000-mile mark, especially if maintenance schedules are not strictly followed. No specific widespread issues are strongly tied to the 2018 model year over others within its generation, but general MINI known concerns should be considered.
There were also recalls issued for the 2018 MINI Clubman. A notable recall involved the fuel pump, which could fail, potentially leading to stalling. Another recall pertained to the airbag system, specifically concerning a faulty component in the passenger-side airbag. It's crucial for potential buyers to check if any outstanding recalls have been addressed on a specific used vehicle.
Regarding long-term reliability, MINI vehicles, in general, can sometimes have higher maintenance costs compared to more mainstream brands. While the 2018 Clubman is built with solid German engineering (BMW parent company), components like turbos, complex electrical systems, and specialized parts can be more expensive to repair or replace once the warranty expires. Reliability ratings from sources like Consumer Reports often place MINI in the average to slightly below average category, suggesting that proactive maintenance is key to ensuring longevity. Issues might become more prevalent after the 70,000-100,000-mile mark, especially if maintenance schedules are not strictly followed. No specific widespread issues are strongly tied to the 2018 model year over others within its generation, but general MINI known concerns should be considered.
How long will the 2018 Mini Clubman last?
With proper and consistent maintenance, a 2018 MINI Clubman can realistically be expected to provide reliable service for 150,000 to 200,000 miles, or roughly 10 to 13 years, assuming an average annual mileage of 12,000-15,000 miles. Long-term durability is largely dependent on how well it has been cared for. The engine and transmission, particularly in the Cooper S and JCW models, are robust but can become costly if neglected. Weaknesses over time may include increased occurrences of electrical glitches, suspension component wear, and potential issues with the turbocharger or exhaust system, especially if the vehicle has been driven hard or not maintained diligently. Adhering to MINI's recommended service intervals is paramount for maximizing its lifespan.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2018 MINI Clubman offered a decent array of technology and safety features, with many desirable options available. Standard tech typically included a 6.5-inch infotainment screen, Bluetooth connectivity, and a push-button start. However, upgrading to the 8.8-inch display, which came with the Navigation Package or was part of higher trims, significantly enhanced the user experience with features like Apple CarPlay integration (though not always standard, depending on region and package) and a more refined interface. The MINI Connected infotainment system, while sometimes criticized for its learning curve, provided access to apps and streaming services.
Driver-assistance and safety features were available, often in optional packages. These could include a rearview camera (standard on most models for 2018), parking sensors (front and rear), Park Assist for automated parking, and potentially adaptive cruise control and head-up display on higher-end configurations. Advanced safety systems like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning were less common as standard features and might have been part of premium packages.
In terms of safety ratings, the 2018 MINI Clubman performed reasonably well. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded it an overall 4 out of 5 stars. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave it a Top Safety Pick designation, with good ratings in most crashworthiness tests, including moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint evaluations. However, some driver-assistance features might have impacted the overall score, as they weren't universally standard. While robust in impact tests, the availability and performance of advanced driver aids were dependent on specific optional equipment installed.
Driver-assistance and safety features were available, often in optional packages. These could include a rearview camera (standard on most models for 2018), parking sensors (front and rear), Park Assist for automated parking, and potentially adaptive cruise control and head-up display on higher-end configurations. Advanced safety systems like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning were less common as standard features and might have been part of premium packages.
In terms of safety ratings, the 2018 MINI Clubman performed reasonably well. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded it an overall 4 out of 5 stars. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave it a Top Safety Pick designation, with good ratings in most crashworthiness tests, including moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint evaluations. However, some driver-assistance features might have impacted the overall score, as they weren't universally standard. While robust in impact tests, the availability and performance of advanced driver aids were dependent on specific optional equipment installed.
What Colors Options are Available?
2018 Mini Clubman Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2018 MINI Clubman had an MSRP that generally started around $27,000 for the base Cooper and could climb to over $40,000 for a well-equipped John Cooper Works model. Currently, on the used market, prices for a 2018 MINI Clubman typically range from approximately $14,000 to $25,000, heavily depending on mileage, condition, trim level, and optional features. The Clubman experiences depreciation typical of premium compact cars, losing about 40-50% of its value in the first five years. Factors affecting resale value include a good maintenance history, lower mileage, desirable color combinations, and the presence of popular optional packages like the premium sound system or technology upgrades. The sporty Cooper S and JCW trims generally hold their value better than the base Cooper.
2018 Mini Clubman Cost of Ownership
Owning a 2018 MINI Clubman can be considered moderately costly compared to economy cars. Insurance premiums are often higher due to its premium branding and parts costs. Fuel costs are reasonable, especially for the Cooper model, thanks to its good MPG. However, maintenance and repair costs tend to be above average. Specialized MINI parts and labor can be more expensive than for mainstream brands. While not prohibitively expensive, it's not an economical vehicle to own. Long-term ownership requires budgeting for potentially higher repair bills after the warranty expires, making consistent maintenance crucial to avoid more significant issues.
2018 Mini Clubman Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
13.20 gallons
City Mileage
22 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
31 miles/gallon
2018 Mini Clubman Safety Rating
NHTSA
2018 Mini Clubman Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
48 months / 50,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
48 months / 50,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
2018 Mini Clubman Insurance
Insurance for a 2018 Mini Clubman is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Wagon with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2018 Mini Clubman Compare to Other Wagon?
The 2018 MINI Clubman occupies a unique niche, often competing with cars like the Volkswagen Golf GTI, Audi A3 Sportback (if available in the market), and larger premium hatchbacks like the BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo (though less direct).
Performance: The Clubman, especially in Cooper S and JCW trims, offers engaging performance with sharp handling that rivals the GTI. The base Cooper is adequate but less spirited. The Audi A3 might offer a more refined ride but can be less engaging.
Features: MINI's interior is known for its stylish, albeit sometimes quirky, design. Feature availability is strong, with many premium options, mirroring what you'd find in an Audi A3. The VW Golf GTI also offers a good balance of sportiness and practicality with modern tech.
Reliability: This is where the Clubman can sometimes fall short compared to the Golf GTI, which generally scores higher in reliability ratings from organizations like Consumer Reports. Audi often places in a similar or slightly better category than MINI. Long-term ownership costs for MINI can also be higher.
Price: The Clubman's pricing is competitive with the Golf GTI, and often slightly less expensive than a comparable Audi A3. However, when looking at used prices, all three can offer good value.
Alternatives:
Performance: The Clubman, especially in Cooper S and JCW trims, offers engaging performance with sharp handling that rivals the GTI. The base Cooper is adequate but less spirited. The Audi A3 might offer a more refined ride but can be less engaging.
Features: MINI's interior is known for its stylish, albeit sometimes quirky, design. Feature availability is strong, with many premium options, mirroring what you'd find in an Audi A3. The VW Golf GTI also offers a good balance of sportiness and practicality with modern tech.
Reliability: This is where the Clubman can sometimes fall short compared to the Golf GTI, which generally scores higher in reliability ratings from organizations like Consumer Reports. Audi often places in a similar or slightly better category than MINI. Long-term ownership costs for MINI can also be higher.
Price: The Clubman's pricing is competitive with the Golf GTI, and often slightly less expensive than a comparable Audi A3. However, when looking at used prices, all three can offer good value.
Alternatives:
- Volkswagen Golf GTI: A strong contender if reliability and practicality are paramount, offering similar performance and a more conventional interior.
- Audi A3 Sportback: For a more upscale and refined experience, with excellent build quality and technology, though potentially less fun to drive dynamically.
- Honda Civic Si (Hatchback): Offers excellent performance for the price and strong reliability, though it lacks the premium badge and unique styling of the Clubman.
Final Verdict: Is the 2018 Mini Clubman a Good Wagon?
The 2018 MINI Clubman is ideal for buyers who prioritize unique styling, engaging driving dynamics, and a practical twist on the MINI formula. It's a great choice for individuals or small families who want a stylish car that stands out from the crowd and offers more cargo versatility than a standard hatchback. It's particularly appealing to those who value driving fun over outright passenger comfort or the lowest possible ownership costs.
It is generally worth buying, especially on the used market where the depreciation makes it more accessible. Buying used is recommended over new to maximize value. The Cooper S trim offers a great balance of performance and features, while the John Cooper Works is for the true performance enthusiast. For a more budget-conscious buyer prioritizing efficiency, the base Cooper is still a stylish and fun option. Buyers should be prepared for potentially higher maintenance and repair costs than average, and ensure any potential purchase has a solid maintenance history.
It is generally worth buying, especially on the used market where the depreciation makes it more accessible. Buying used is recommended over new to maximize value. The Cooper S trim offers a great balance of performance and features, while the John Cooper Works is for the true performance enthusiast. For a more budget-conscious buyer prioritizing efficiency, the base Cooper is still a stylish and fun option. Buyers should be prepared for potentially higher maintenance and repair costs than average, and ensure any potential purchase has a solid maintenance history.