The first images of MINI’s 2008 Clubman have found their way into the net, two months prior to the car’s public debut at the Frankfurt Show in September. We don’t have the press release in our hands yet, but the four pictures of the Clubman speak for themselves. Maintaining several of the characteristics seen in MINI’s “Traveller” concepts like the spilt rear doors, the Clubman is based on stretched platform architecture from the new MINI range.

The most notable feature of the Clubman -apart from the extended wheelbase which will significantly open up cabin space, is the clamshell side door on the passenger’s side. The reverse-opening door promises to offer easier access to the expanded second row seats. Style-wise, the Clubman has a redesigned rear-end featuring plastic add-ons on the C-pillar. However, what really caught our attention here were the twin-wipers on the split-door; a detail that makes you love those meticulous Bavarian engineers.

As for the engine range, the Clubman is expected to be offered with the same units as the hatch minus the base 95Hp 1.4. Thus meaning, we’ll have the Cooper with the 120Hp 1.6-litre petrol engine, the Cooper S with the 175Hp Turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol unit and finally a diesel version fitted with a 110Hp 1.6-litre unit. As BMW Group announced earlier this year, the Clubman will go on sale towards the end of 2007. -Continued: Click “Read More…” below for more high-res images