2012 MINI Clubman: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026

The 2012 MINI Clubman is largely a carryover from 2011. Its main updates are minor appearance and personalization choices, not a redesign or a meaningful mechanical change.
About the 2012 MINI Clubman
First-generation Clubman (R55, 2008-2014), one year after the 2011 styling update.
MINI marketed the Clubman as the more useful, roomier take on the regular Hardtop without giving up the brand’s playful feel. The Clubman’s identity centers on extra rear-seat space, more cargo room, the signature passenger-side Clubdoor, and split rear cargo doors. It is the MINI for shoppers who want the brand’s distinctive style and lively handling but need more everyday practicality than the smaller hatchback delivers.
The Cooper emphasizes everyday usefulness, with a passenger-side rear access door, split rear cargo doors, and folding rear seats. The Cooper S adds a 181-hp turbo engine and sportier suspension tuning, while the 208-hp John Cooper Works brings the lineup’s most serious performance setup, including stronger front brakes.
What changed, by category
2012 MINI Clubman specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.6 Liter | 4-Cyl, HO, Turbo, 1.6L |
| Transmission | Auto, 6-Spd Steptronic | Auto, 6-Spd Steptronic | Manual, 6-Spd |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 27 mpg | 26 mpg | 25 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 35 mpg | 34 mpg | 33 mpg |
| Horsepower | 121 hp | 181 hp | 208 hp |
| Torque | 114 lb-ft | 177 lb-ft | 192 lb-ft |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Traction Control | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Panorama Moon Roof | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||
| Wood Interior Trim | |||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2012 MINI Clubman compared with the 2011 model?
The main changes were minor appearance and personalization updates, including new MINI Yours options and revisions to paint and C-pillar choices. The basic design, trim lineup, engines, safety equipment, and in-car technology carried over.
Was the 2012 MINI Clubman redesigned?
No, the 2012 Clubman was not redesigned. It remained part of the first generation and arrived one year after the 2011 styling update.
Did the 2012 MINI Clubman get different engines?
No, the 2012 Clubman had no meaningful engine change. The Cooper retained its 1.6-liter four-cylinder, the Cooper S used a 181-hp turbocharged version, and the John Cooper Works had a 208-hp turbocharged version.
Which trims were offered for the 2012 MINI Clubman?
The 2012 Clubman lineup consisted of Cooper, Cooper S, and John Cooper Works trims. They progressed from the everyday base model to the sportier turbo Cooper S and the more focused John Cooper Works performance version.
Did the 2012 MINI Clubman retain its unusual rear doors?
Yes, the 2012 Clubman retained its passenger-side rear-hinged Clubdoor and two side-hinged rear cargo doors. This door layout was unchanged for the model year.
Sources
- press.bmwgroup.com — Detail / T0123360EN US / Complete 2012 Mini Lineup Pricing And Updates
- press.bmwgroup.com — Detail / T0018083EN US / 2009 Mini Press Kit: The 2009 Mini Clubman The Other Mini
- miniusa.com — Archiveownermanuals / MY12 / 01402914744 R5556 Basis 0712 Ue 2012
- press.bmwgroup.com — Detail / T0136102EN US / Complete 2013 Mini Lineup Pricing And Equipment Updates