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Our friends at Colorado-based “The Fast Lane Car” (TFLcar) had an opportunity to drive a pair of “Clubbies,” including a 2016 MINI Clubman (six-speed manual) and a 2016 MINI Clubman S (eight-speed automatic). Could Lead Presenter Roman Mica, at over six feet tall, fit in the Clubman’s front seat? Is the basic three-cylinder turbocharged engine enough to keep pace on the highway? Is there really enough cargo space for a washing machine? Watch the video below to find out!

The 2016 MINI Clubman ushers in a new era for the brand, inclusive of flawless fit and finish, exquisite interior materials, and four full-size passenger doors. Straight on, it adds up to an appearance of individualized refinement and flexibility. In the cabin, it’s representative of a whole new era of premium expectations. Every tangible surface including switches and buttons, seats, door panels and more, has been refined to levels never before seen within the premium compact segment. Brand loyalists needn’t fear, as the package still looks and feels undeniably “MINI,” but now elevates the brand with a more premium look and feel.

Powertrains for the new Clubman share configurations with the 2016 Mini Cooper Hardtop and BMW’s Europe-only 2-series hatchback models. Offerings include a 134-HP turbocharged three-cylinder engine for the base Clubbie, and a 189-HP turbocharged four-cylinder engine for the Clubman S. Either engine can be paired with a six-speed manual transmission, with the three cylinder’s optional automatic boasting six forward gears and, respectively, the four-cylinder mill’s benefiting from eight.

From personal experience, handling remains extraordinarily go-kart-like, and power delivery is smooth, substantial, and linear with either powertrain. Despite its relative size, the Clubman is still tremendous fun to fling around corners – you can just do it now with four full-size adults on board or, with the seats folded, a washing machine in the back. Note: We don’t recommend flinging *any *car around corners with a washing machine rolling around in back. Thankfully, the Clubman’s sturdy tie-down hooks and anchor points can help when needed!

Either way, whether you’re in the market for a 2016 MINI Clubman (now with available ALL4 all-wheel drive), a 2016 MINI Countryman, or a 2016 MINI Cooper Hardtop, there’s never been a better time to buy. March 2016 marks the beginning of Schomp MINI’s unbeatable zero-down sales event, so stop in today for a test drive of what, more now than ever, is the ultimate motoring machine.s