I have to replace my 2009 Base R6,

I'm about to consider a 2011 Clubman with 85K.

I'm looking for opinions as to gas mileage (both are manual 6 speeds) driving experience, and general pros and cons. Will it handle as well as the base?

I assume that the mechanical workings and problems are the same or similar, right?

Thanks!

 

When they were new on the lot, I did back to back test drives off the Cooper & Clubman.
The Cooper was an S & the Clubman a JCW [only MT Club on the lot at the time]
I preferred the Clubman to the Cooper, and would do the same today, given the choice between them.

Yet, I ended up in an auto R57.

 

2009 base model, non-turbo hatchback compared to a 2011 base Clubman non-turbo? The 2011 base has the newer engine in it, with some efficiency upgrades, should theoretically run a little smoother and get slightly better gas mileage. The Clubman has a TON more space inside. I can fit four adults in mine for short trips. The hatchback... not so much. The Clubman will be slightly more stable on the highway due to the longer wheel base. The Clubman can be made to handle very well, too.

I have a heavily modified turbo Clubman. So, any specific questions, please let me know.

 

Second Nik for the R55 with more useable room and better handling on highway than R56.
With an subframe brace and H&R rear swaybar, my car handles just as good as R56 around curves.

 

I cast my vote for the Clubman. I have an R55, R56, and R58. While the Coupe is the most fun, the Clubman is the most useful - and it's hella fun all on its own. Spent many years driving Audi/Vw platforms, and frankly these cars are so much better both in engineering, materials, and reliability it's ridiculous to see people complain about them. I cut my teeth driving VW Rabbits as a younger driver, and this is the most fun I've had driving since then.

You can basically mod the car to do anything you want it to, but straight from the factory they're fantastic.

Enjoy!