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2016 Mini Clubman stretches out, opens wide for Frankfurt crowd [w/video]

On the surface, there are two things you need to know that differentiate the new Mini Clubman from not only its short-wheelbase counterpart, but the brand's two other five-door models. First, its stretched wheelbase really is very long, and second, it still has those nifty barn doors in back. That extra four inches added between the axles is important, because it makes for not only the longest vehicle Mini has ever built – it's actually slightly longer than a four-door Volkswagen Golf – it's easily its roomiest, as well. The backseats are suitable for real human beings. Even with a taller driver in front, seating behind the driver is far from cramped, although we'd hesitate to put three adults in the second row. Compared to the aforementioned VW, there's a total of 34.3 inches of rear legroom, or just 1.3 inches less than the Golf. As for those twin barn doors, they swing open at the kick of a foot (when so optioned), much like the smart tailgates being fitted to so many crossovers. Once open, they grant users access to 17.5 cubic feet of cargo space, complete with a liftable flat floor. Fold the second row down, and there's a total of 47.9 cu ft of cargo space. Check out our entire live gallery of the all-new – and fully undisguised, this time around – direct from the floor of the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show. RIPE FOR FRESH CONQUESTS: THE NEW MINI CLUBMAN Woodcliff Lake, NJ, June 24, 2015. The new generation of the MINI model family continues to grow. With the new MINI Clubman it now conquers the premium compact segment, too. The new model offers the highest level of everyday practicality, long distance suitability, versatility and ride comfort ever seen in a MINI. With four doors and the characteristic split doors at the rear, five fully-fledged seats and a generously sized, versatile interior, the new MINI Clubman meets all the requirements of the compact class in terms of functionality in its own unconventional way. Individual style, outstanding driving fun and the quality level of a premium automobile make it an exceptional phenomenon that allows additional target groups to get a taste of the distinctive MINI feeling. The matured character of the new MINI Clubman is reflected in dimensions that are significantly larger than the predecessor model, a distinctive body concept, high-quality materials and finish quality and also new features in the areas of drive, suspension comfort, safety, controls and connectivity based on the latest MINI generation.

Mini recalls select 2015 Cooper Hardtops over seats

The new Mini Cooper Hardtop only recently reached the market, but already BMW is having to recall a limited number of the hatchbacks. The problem revolves around the front seats, whose adjustment mechanism may not fully lock into place. In the event of an accident, that could lead to the seatback folding unexpectedly, which carries with it an increased risk of injury for the driver and front passenger. The issue only affects the new 2015 Mini Cooper, specifically two-door Hardtop models manufactured in the short window between August 12 and September 2, 2014. That amounts to only 846 units, according to the notice posted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which you can read below. Owners of the affected vehicles will be notified to bring their Minis into their local dealership to have the seatback adjustment mechanisms realligned and tightened to remedy the problem. RECALL Subject : Seatback may Fold in Rear Impact Crash Report Receipt Date: NOV 10, 2014 NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V721000 Component(s): SEATS Potential Number of Units Affected: 846 Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC SUMMARY: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2015 MINI Cooper Hardtop 2 Door vehicles manufactured August 12, 2014, to September 2, 2014. In the affected vehicles, the driver and front passenger seatback adjustment mechanism may not be fully engaged. CONSEQUENCE: If the seatback adjustment mechanism is not fully engaged, the seatback may fold during a rear impact collision, increasing the risk of injury to the seat occupant. REMEDY: MINI will notify owners, and dealers will re-align and re-tighten the seatback adjustment mechanisms, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in December 2014. Owners can contact MINI customer service at 1-866-825-1525. NOTES: Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Spy shots show Mini Cooper facelift

Mini is planning some slight visual changes to the Mini Cooper lineup, and our spy photographer caught the convertible and Cooper S out in the wild wearing minimal camouflage. As the changes will be subtle, there's not a lot that needs covering up, as we can see from the light bits of swirly camo worn by these two testers. Up front, it looks like might make some light touchups to the lighting and the front edge of the hood, which are covered by decals. In back, the rear lighting, top of the bumper, and the horizontal piece that is home to the rear Mini badge are disguised, but any changes there will also be very slight. It's what we don't see in the photos that will get the most important updates. Mechanically, it's possible that a revised turbocharging system and cooling system could help with emissions and provide a small boost to output. From styling standpoint, we can expect a couple of new paint colors and wheel designs, as well as some new interior options and mood lighting. Related Video: Featured Gallery Mini Cooper Spy Shots View 18 Photos News Source: CarPix Design/Style Spy Photos MINI Convertible Hatchback facelift