R55 Advice needed: MINI and kids?
5th Gear
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 910
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From: Far West Texas
And if you do want the cabrio, by the time you order a new one, it will probably be the new body style which does have more room. This is off the beaten path a little but if you don't know already, the Clubman is sold in other markets with seating for 3 in the back seat. That shows there is a little wiggle room back there for growing twins but not much more. We knew when we had kids, we would be transporting them, their friends, and all of their gear. You will be VERY limited in space for anything else but the 4 passengers.
3rd Gear
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 212
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From: Med. to Well Done in Phx
Again, try a Clubman- my kids are 12 and 9 and have a lot of room in the back seat. Also have a friend who is 6' 2'' that sits in the back occasionally and claims to be plenty comfortable!
Neutral
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 7
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Clubman + Twins FTW
We also have twin boys! We all fit great in our new clubman, and we've really been piling the miles because we can't stay out of it. We have an Audi Q7 that's supposed to be for the all-family occasions, but we all prefer the mini--especially the twins.
Ours boys are only 1.5 years old and only barely switched to the front-facing car seats...but I also drive the clubman to work everyday and often will drive three other adult-sized dudes to lunch. The tallest guy in our office fits in the back no problem.
Legroom will not be an issue...the clubman feels very roomy in the back and it's so easy even for adults to get in and out with the clubdoor.
For me the only challenge was negotiating our double-wide umbrella stroller in the back, as the car is just not very wide. I've only found one way to get it to fit in there, and I have a nice sized scratch on the back of the car to remind me how careless I was in figuring it out.
Our twins are just barely saying a few words but whenever they see that chili-red mini it's "CAR! CAR! CAR!"
We love it.
Ours boys are only 1.5 years old and only barely switched to the front-facing car seats...but I also drive the clubman to work everyday and often will drive three other adult-sized dudes to lunch. The tallest guy in our office fits in the back no problem.
Legroom will not be an issue...the clubman feels very roomy in the back and it's so easy even for adults to get in and out with the clubdoor.
For me the only challenge was negotiating our double-wide umbrella stroller in the back, as the car is just not very wide. I've only found one way to get it to fit in there, and I have a nice sized scratch on the back of the car to remind me how careless I was in figuring it out.
Our twins are just barely saying a few words but whenever they see that chili-red mini it's "CAR! CAR! CAR!"
We love it.
5th Gear
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 877
Likes: 1
Don't have kids but I can say this: my dad is an inch taller than me because his legs are longer. He went with me to the dealership out of curiosity because he had never seen a Clubman. When he saw the Clubdoor feature, he tried the back seat. With me sitting in the front on the right, he said he didn't feel like he was being squeezed to death. I think your kids will be fine up until they're teens. But by then, they'll be clamoring for a car of their own anyway!
6th Gear
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 4,256
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From: Nashvegas Tennisshoe
Howdy- I have twins- B/G 8 yr olds, but still in boosters (TN law till they're 9 or 4'9"...). When we test drove Mini's we drove both a clubbie and a MC... My kids both preferred the room in the Clubman back seat- it was "that" much roomier. Additionally, I tend to get a "hitch in my giddyup" (si issues), so I tried to reach into the back seat from an MC and then tried the same from the Clubman. Trying to reach OVER the front seats in an MC was bad for me- I really didn't want to imagine trying to get a sleeping child out, whereas with the Clubman it was much better. That said, I would love to have had 4 doors!
Our clubbie is due here toward the end of next month- my DH, the twins & I can't wait. And we're keeping my Land Cruiser for the times I have to carry small troops of little people (or pull my horse trailer). Our previous daily commuter was a 1982 MB 300td station wagon. I can tell you, I'm really looking forward to NOT driving a cinderblock!
Best of luck- Vivi
Our clubbie is due here toward the end of next month- my DH, the twins & I can't wait. And we're keeping my Land Cruiser for the times I have to carry small troops of little people (or pull my horse trailer). Our previous daily commuter was a 1982 MB 300td station wagon. I can tell you, I'm really looking forward to NOT driving a cinderblock!
Best of luck- Vivi
2nd Gear
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 57
Likes: 0
From: norwich uk
hi
i have two mini's at the moment a cooper and a cooper s, (cooper has now been sold and is being replaced by a clubman) we have a 9 year old boy and a 3 year,we had to search to get a smaller pushchair/stroller but it all fits in nicely,we never have a problem,been on holiday with the cooper s and managed to get a weeks holiday luggage in the boot,go for it,they are great fun
i have two mini's at the moment a cooper and a cooper s, (cooper has now been sold and is being replaced by a clubman) we have a 9 year old boy and a 3 year,we had to search to get a smaller pushchair/stroller but it all fits in nicely,we never have a problem,been on holiday with the cooper s and managed to get a weeks holiday luggage in the boot,go for it,they are great fun
1st Gear
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
I need some advice regarding a Clubman with 2 kids
I really love the Clubman. I test drove it this week and I fell in love. I currently have a Lexus RX 330. My only hesitation is the safety issue. I know the car gets high 5 Star ratings, but I was told that the way they test the car is against another vehicle that's the same weight. So what happens if a big SUV runs into me? If it was just myself, I would not think twice and I would place my order today. I have to think about my two girls, age 3 and 8. Any words of wisdom or advice? Thanks,
Julie
Julie
2nd Gear
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 139
Likes: 0
From: Central Texas
law of physics....humongous SUV at 50mph will provide significant damage to standing still 'small' car.....thus the importance of side impact airbags,etc.....now....that is across the board.... I think that is all anyone can realistically tell you...
aside from having a scientist that can do the math for how to ensure your full success in surviving a worst case impact, you'd be hard pressed to find anyone go out of their way to tell you that you and your kids will be safe, for that matter, that includes you driving that lexus... way too many scenarios...
my clubman is awtg transport to the U.S. and I currently drive an 07' Civic Sdn, our other car is 08 Expedition EL.... as parents, we all have concerns and can only do what we can, i.e. get the safest car(s) you can and drive as defensivley as you can when you have them in your car.....
BTW: I have 4 kids (5 yrs old, 3yr old trips)....so I understand completely...
aside from having a scientist that can do the math for how to ensure your full success in surviving a worst case impact, you'd be hard pressed to find anyone go out of their way to tell you that you and your kids will be safe, for that matter, that includes you driving that lexus... way too many scenarios...
my clubman is awtg transport to the U.S. and I currently drive an 07' Civic Sdn, our other car is 08 Expedition EL.... as parents, we all have concerns and can only do what we can, i.e. get the safest car(s) you can and drive as defensivley as you can when you have them in your car.....
BTW: I have 4 kids (5 yrs old, 3yr old trips)....so I understand completely...
2nd Gear
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 139
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From: Central Texas
BTW, there is a thread somewhere around here I was just looking at yesterday, not necessarily clubmans, but regular MINI coopers and its a thread on accidents,etc.... folks sharing their incidents and in most cases tons of photos in there... very interesting reading and interesting to see the damage on the cars and yet keep hearing, minimal injuries from them... might help keep your perspective....
You know as I read the responses, many of you did not comment on the MC or MCS but immediately recommended the Clubman. I had been avoiding the Clubman because I did not like its looks (hold on...). I had really only seen one and that was when they first arrived on the lot. That Clubman was in a color I did not prefer so I avoided the model all together. When we have gone to our dealership since that time, there has never been a Clubman on the lot-I wonder why? With that said, I did go back and look at the previous posts where you all have gallery shots of your Clubman and I am a converter! I know that the Clubman will bring us the FUN and space we need. I was so focused on the MC and MCS that I totally made the Clubman the "red-headed stepchild" of the bunch. Red-head or not, I plan to order mine soon... Now I have to decide on a color. Decisions...decisions... (one of the blue shades or the CR?) Thanks to all of you who responded and gave me your honest opinion. I know we will opt for the Clubman and have 10+ years of happiness with it like I did with the Pathfinder I plan to replace. You guys are the greatest!
2nd Gear
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 84
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JLittle:
I have a 2 year old and a 5 year old and my Clubman is their primary transport to school. I have no special safety concerns as it feels like I'm driving a little tank.
If anyone got hit by a Suburban with full armor, it would hurt. But no matter how big you go, there's always somthing bigger, a Hummer, a dumptruck, a schoolbus etc... There are always risks. I think the agility of a MINI might get you out of more trouble than a bigger car and thus it could be considered safer than some.
(I'll also note that I had the privledge of getting hit by a MINI and I'll tell you it did a lot more damage to my car than it received in return. And my car was significantly bigger.)
My 2 cents.
I have a 2 year old and a 5 year old and my Clubman is their primary transport to school. I have no special safety concerns as it feels like I'm driving a little tank.
If anyone got hit by a Suburban with full armor, it would hurt. But no matter how big you go, there's always somthing bigger, a Hummer, a dumptruck, a schoolbus etc... There are always risks. I think the agility of a MINI might get you out of more trouble than a bigger car and thus it could be considered safer than some.
(I'll also note that I had the privledge of getting hit by a MINI and I'll tell you it did a lot more damage to my car than it received in return. And my car was significantly bigger.)
My 2 cents.
Last edited by srahaim; Oct 16, 2008 at 01:16 PM. Reason: spelling
5th Gear
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 891
Likes: 0
From: Calgary, AB
On another note, I think there is an age awkwardness related to leg length. Small/young kids in the back of a clubman? No problem. Older kids whose feet can touch the floor? No problem.
It's when you have kids in that 6-8 year old range that have legs that hang over the edge of the seat pan, but can't reach the floor (so they can tuck their feet under the front seat) that you will have space issues (and kicking of the back of the seat).
My 2 cents...
3rd Gear
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 249
Likes: 0
From: New Jersey
jlittle,
I've never had any accident in the Clubman -- caused by an SUV or otherwise. I can't offer any real-world insight into crash-worthiness.
I put my girls (8 and 5) into it every day. Others load their kids in, too, as you can see in this and other threads. In the end, that's all I really have to offer -- that I feel completely comfortable placing my most valuable cargo in this car.
Since I can't imagine all of us are fundamentally that different in values as parents, I would think this kind of testimony is worth more than any statistic or industry award. All that stuff doesn't hurt, but look at what people are willing to do. We can't all be reckless, irresponsible, or crazy. Can we?
I've never had any accident in the Clubman -- caused by an SUV or otherwise. I can't offer any real-world insight into crash-worthiness.
I put my girls (8 and 5) into it every day. Others load their kids in, too, as you can see in this and other threads. In the end, that's all I really have to offer -- that I feel completely comfortable placing my most valuable cargo in this car.
Since I can't imagine all of us are fundamentally that different in values as parents, I would think this kind of testimony is worth more than any statistic or industry award. All that stuff doesn't hurt, but look at what people are willing to do. We can't all be reckless, irresponsible, or crazy. Can we?
Last edited by NJ Clubman; Oct 16, 2008 at 01:32 PM.
1st Gear
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
Thanks to all. I have another question. I test drove an automatic. Anyone have any insight on whether I should consider a stick shift with kids or not. I love the feel of driving stick shift, but will it be safer to drive an automatic with kids? Will I lose much driving an automatic, as far as power and a sporty feel is concerned?
3rd Gear
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 253
Likes: 0
When did this info become available? I just went on a test drive last weekend and was told the AB is being discontinued, but that if I wanted Laser Blue I could order after the new year.
3rd Gear
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 249
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From: New Jersey
Thanks to all. I have another question. I test drove an automatic. Anyone have any insight on whether I should consider a stick shift with kids or not. I love the feel of driving stick shift, but will it be safer to drive an automatic with kids? Will I lose much driving an automatic, as far as power and a sporty feel is concerned?
That said, the auto has paddle shifters that allow you some flexibility. You can choose to downshift when you want, and the car will pull you into the seat.
Like I said, I'd get the stick -- and will on my next Mini. I'm a bit of a purist, I guess.
But you should find out for yourself. Looks like you'll need to do another test drive! Oh, darn.
Neutral
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
From: Olympia, Washington
Clubman ideal for kids!
My kids LOVE the Clubman! The Expedition will be parked in the garage for the foreseeable future, as the kids can't wait to go to school in the Mini. Plenty of room for their 8 and 9-year old selves, backpacks, lunchboxes, and the occasional science project.
Use the Mini's superior braking and/or handling to avoid all SUV's. That's what we do...
The 6-sp manual is the way to go, BTW. Great clutch, enough torque for some fun, and great mpg. Mine manages 39 mpg in mixed driving on regular gas...not too shabby
Use the Mini's superior braking and/or handling to avoid all SUV's. That's what we do...
The 6-sp manual is the way to go, BTW. Great clutch, enough torque for some fun, and great mpg. Mine manages 39 mpg in mixed driving on regular gas...not too shabby
6th Gear
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 4,256
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From: Nashvegas Tennisshoe
My clubbie just came in on Tuesday. Been driving it all over, and it honestly feels safer than Hilda the Cinderblock (1982 MB 300TD, which is built like a TANK). In fact, I was out today on the interstate, in the rain. We have a lot of big rigs that come thru this area at high speeds, throwing lots of back splash and wind as they pass- in Hilda, and even in my Landcruiser, I get nervous being passed by them in the rain, but in MochaLatte (my clubbie's name), I felt secure.
My kids love the clubbie- plenty of room. My gut feeling is that with all the airbags and the solidness of the car, it would be very safe in an accident. That said, there are so many factors in accidents that avoidance is the best way to be safe.
HOpe that helps-
My kids love the clubbie- plenty of room. My gut feeling is that with all the airbags and the solidness of the car, it would be very safe in an accident. That said, there are so many factors in accidents that avoidance is the best way to be safe.
HOpe that helps-
Neutral
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
From: Olympia, Washington
Welcome to the "Club!"
The Clubbie is a great ride! I picked mine up in Germany, and was able to drive it on the Autobahn for a week before I had it shipped home. I felt perfectly comfortable in it, mixing it up with the really fast traffic. Very stable, well-sorted ride. I picked it up in LA a week ago, and drove it back to the Northwest via the Pacific Coast Highway...what a blast!
Sadly, my wife has assumed control of it, and it's unlikely I'll get to drive it much anymore. But, as we all know, when Mom is happy, everyone is happy...
Av8rboy
Sadly, my wife has assumed control of it, and it's unlikely I'll get to drive it much anymore. But, as we all know, when Mom is happy, everyone is happy...
Av8rboy
I made a mistake, it isn't the laser blue that is being discontinued it is the lightning blue. Sorry.
