MONTEREY, California - Mini Cooper owners and admirers tend to love the way the car handles. They also praise its performance, especially in extra-potent Cooper S form. But there's one area where the Mini Cooper has fallen short - literally: space in the back seat. Though it's officially a four-seater, the two in back haven't enjoyed much in the way of leg space.

That's no longer an issue with the new extended-length Clubman model. When the original Minis were manufactured in Britain four decades ago, the lineup included several derivatives. One was called the Traveler, and it's the vehicle that the modern Mini organization took as a model for the Clubman. A connection can be seen to the Countryman concept that was promoted at the Paris Motor Show in 2000.

In addition to extra length, the Clubman adds an access door on the right side, to make it easier to get into the more spacious back seat. Split rear doors help give the Clubman a jaunty appearance, as well as providing easy access to the cargo compartment.

Wheelbase has grown by 80 millimeters (just over 3 inches), compared to the regular Mini Cooper, which suggests a slightly smoother ride. The rear overhang is 160 millimeters (more than 6 inches) greater. Overall length is 9.4 inches greater, and the length of the cargo area has increased by 6.3 inches. Rear seats fold down separately.

Powertrains are unchanged. In regular form, the 1.6-liter four-cylinder produces 118 horsepower. The turbocharged Cooper S engine makes 172 horsepower. On the highway, a Clubman can deliver an estimated 37 miles per gallon (34 for the Cooper S), according to Environmental Protection Agency. A six-speed Getrag manual gearbox is standard, but Minis may be equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission that can be shifted using paddles.

On the road, there's virtually no difference between the Clubman and a regular-size Mini Cooper hardtop. In Cooper S form, the ride is firm for certain, yet seldom punishing. When passing is required, the turbocharged engine delivers plenty of energy. But mainly, the Clubman drives with the same brand of "go-kart" handling as every Mini Cooper. For just plain fun, hardly anything beats the Cooper on twisty roads, due to its quick steering and rapid responses. Braking is especially effective, too.

Visibility is generally good, but the split rear doors produce a somewhat constricted rearward view through the small door panes. The rear half-door on one side definitely helps when getting into the back seat, which now offers tolerable passenger space. Cargo space is hardly immense, but clearly more substantial than in a Mini hardtop or convertible.

With an automatic transmission, the Mini's engine gets a little noisy. In fact, it emits quite a bit of sound when revving high to shift. Acceleration is less spirited than with the manual gearbox.

A Mini Clubman can be driven home for as little as $20,600, versus $18,700 for the regular Mini Cooper hardtop. In Cooper S form, the Clubman stickers for $24,100. A Cooper S hardtop runs $21,850. An automatic transmission adds $1,250.

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