2013 Mini Clubvan, Paceman

Mini Clubvan and Mini Paceman Preview:

Mini is now the many.

The brand that returned a decade ago to these shores with a single model in two trims now boasts more than half a dozen distinct offerings.

After a 35-year absence, Mini came back to the U.S. for the 2002 model year with only its core product – a two-door, four-seat, hatchback coupe, available in Cooper and Cooper S trims. Since then, the brand has added a convertible version of that four-seat coupe (2005), an extended-length Clubman model (2008), an all-wheel-drive Countryman crossover – the first four-door Mini (2010), a two-seat Coupe (2012) and twin-seat drop-top Roadster (2012).

For 2013, Mini is multiplying again. Here’s a look at the new Clubvan and Paceman.

Clubvan

Take the Clubman, pull the back seat, and install opaque panels where the rear side windows are and you’ve got the Clubvan, the first Mini ever categorized as a “commercial” vehicle.

Clubvan features five doors – two up front, a right-side panel door and twin rear panel doors.

Inside, the load floor and side walls are trimmed in carpet, six floor loops secure cargo and 12-volt sockets power electrical equipment.

A partition behind the seats prevents objects from sliding forward into the passenger area under heavy braking.

The only drivetrain is a 1.6-liter, 121-hp four backed by a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.

Clubvan is a special-order vehicle. Pricing was not available at press time.

Paceman

The Paceman is, essentially, a two-door version of Mini’s four-door Countryman crossover, meaning it’s the first Mini coupe ever to make available all-wheel drive.

When it comes to trim levels, Paceman offers all the usual Mini suspects – Cooper, Cooper S, Cooper S ALL4 all-wheel drive and John Cooper Works ALL4.

The drivetrains will be familiar to Mini fans. The Cooper gets a 1.6-liter, 121-hp I-4, Cooper S a turbo version of that engine that makes 181 hp and the John Cooper Works model gooses that turbo four’s power to 208 hp. Transmissions consist of a six-speed manual or an available six-speed automatic.

Look for the new Paceman to arrive March 16. Prices start at $23,900.