MINI is a much-loved brand in the UK thanks to its retro, cool-Britannia styling and its massive economy-supporting factory in Oxford, but it’s fair to say that the Clubman has traditionally been one of the brand’s least-loved models. The bulbous looks and asymmetrical door layout of the original (the single rear door opened out into the road when parked at the kerb, bizarrely) probably explains a lot of this ill-feeling, but the 2019 MINI Clubman represents the second-generation version, which was much improved thanks to more conventional doors and sharper looks. It’s still a fun thing to drive, too, and more practical than a regular MINI.

Strengths:

Distinctive styling
Fun to drive
More practical than a regular MINI

Weaknesses:

No more practical than most other hatchbacks
Not cheap to buy, comparatively
Relatively high servicing costs

Is the 2019 MINI Clubman better than the 2019 Audi A3 Sportback?

The MINI is a livelier, more enjoyable car to drive than the Audi, and it’s arguably more stylish if you like that sort of thing. However, the MINI is no more desirable than the Audi, no more practical, no more impressive for quality and is no more generously equipped. This generation of the A3 is the model at the peak of its powers, and it’s a fantastic all-rounder.