Sharing is Caring 

They say sharing is caring and that sentiment rings true for MINI, too. The 2016 MINI Cooper Paceman shares much with the previous-generation Cooper hatchback, and is roughly 15 inches longer and 4.5 inches taller than its corporate sibling. Those measurements may not seem like a lot at first, but the slight increase in size provides elevated seating for all and a welcome injection of legroom for backseat passengers. Factor in the added benefit of available all-wheel drive and the 2016 Paceman is one versatile two-door coupe. 

Performance

The base model 2016 MINI Paceman ($23,550)* is powered by a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder that serves up 121 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque. Power is shuffled to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission; however if you want to relinquish a little control for the added convenience of an automatic transmission, we recommend selecting the Paceman's optional six-speed automatic. 

The Paceman S ($26,900)* is outfitted with a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that dishes out 181 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. Once again front-wheel-drive is standard, however, S models get an optional all-wheel-drive system. Transmission options remain the same as the standard model.

Perched atop the Paceman’s lineup is the high-performance John Cooper Works model ($35,600),* which boasts an even more powerful version of the turbocharged 1.6-liter that is capable of churning out a monstrous 208 horsepower and 192 pound-feet of torque. According to MINI, the JCW version, which comes with all-wheel-drive standard, can scoot from 0-60 mph in just 6.5 seconds. Fun!

Of course power is only one part of the performance equation: the Paceman is also incredibly efficient. In fact, despite the different powertrains, fuel economy numbers remain steady. The base model (when equipped with the manual transmission) has an EPA-rated 29 mpg combined (27 city/32 highway),** while the Paceman S earns 29 mpg combined (25 city/32 highway).** Paceman S models equipped with AWD earn 27 mpg combined (25 city/31 highway), ** while the all-wheel drive JCW model nets 27 mpg combined (25 city/31 highway) with the manual, ** and 26 mpg combined (23 city/30 highway) with the automatic.**

Features 

With so many customization options, it’s safe to say that no two MINIs are exactly alike. But more than that, with three trim levels to choose from, including base, S, and John Cooper Works, prospective buyers can rest easy knowing there is a 2016 MINI Paceman model that is bound to fit their needs.

The 2016 MINI Paceman offers up a generous list of standard equipment, which includes 17-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, and premium vinyl upholstery. Front sports seats are also standard, providing a more race-like experience, while a welcome mix of cruise control, full power accessories, Bluetooth® smartphone connectivity, a six-speaker sound system with CD player , HD Radio®, and USB/iPod® inputs round out the list of standard equipment. There's even a chilled glovebox! 

Naturally, the sportier Paceman S and high-performance John Cooper Works models are kitted out with even more features. Paceman S models get the aforementioned turbocharged engine, along with foglights and a dynamic traction mode, while the JCW model gets a sportier exhaust system, a sport-tuned suspension, and unique exterior and interior styling touches. 

Of course, it just wouldn’t be a MINI without a healthy choice of options, and the 2016 Paceman is happy to oblige. Options and add-ons include 18- and 19-inch alloy wheels, adaptive xenon headlights, panoramic sunroof, rear parking sensors, chrome brightwork on the exterior, keyless entry/ignition, a 10-speaker harmon/kardon® sound system, navigation system, leather upholstery, and heated front seats, to name few.

Also available is a Media package that adds a 6.5-inch display inside the central speedometer, a console-mounted joystick, voice controls, and smartphone app integration. For your convenience, a navigation system can also be added. 

And as If that wasn’t enough, the Paceman can be further decked out with a gaggle of graphics and special appearance items like Union Jack and Checkered Flag mirror caps. 

Design

With a sharply penned exterior that is perfectly in-step with MINI’s welcoming and warm style, the 2016 Paceman is one good looking piece of molded sheet metal. It’s slightly larger than the MINI Cooper but smaller than the four-door Countryman. The roofline is low and sporty with just the right mix of curves front to back.

The interior is equally charming, too. Large, racecar-like dials and speedometers take center stage, with a wide array of small switches and buttons placed about the dash for what amounts to a very distinct cabin design. Speaking of the cabin, it’s very roomy given the car’s dimensions, with abundant head, leg, and shoulder room for passengers. 

Need to haul stuff about town? Then you're bound to appreciate the 2016 Paceman’s not-so-mini 38.1 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear bucket seats folded down. 

Safety

Everything about the 2016 MINI Paceman screams fun, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t take safety seriously. Whether you’re making use of the Paceman’s available all-wheel-drive on the slopes or shuffling through traffic during your daily grind, the Paceman – along with its litany of standard safety features – is designed to leap into action when called upon. Standard safety equipment includes antilock disc brakes, stability control, and seven dual-stage Smart Airbags that monitor driver and front passenger position.

Verdict

Despite its fun-loving nature, the 2016 MINI Paceman takes driving very seriously. Its raised ride height, available all-wheel drive, and increased interior space make it an excellent choice for MINI lovers that want something that's as exciting as the Cooper Coupe, but a little more practical. 

For more information, or to test drive the 2016 MINI Paceman, be sure to call or contact us at 3Birds Template today or visit us at 505 W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill, NC 27516. 

*Model year 2016 MSRP does not include destination and handling charge of $850 and excludes license, registration, taxed, and options and labor to install. Certain features may be optional.

**All MPG values are based on preliminary EPA estimates for model year 2016. Actual mileage will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits, and vehicle operation.

Image: MINI (European model shown)