Mini Clubman diesel starting and fuel consumption issues

A defective throttle valve in your Mini Clubman diesel could indeed cause poor starting and increased fuel consumption. Have you observed any error codes using an OBDII scanner? Could you describe the engine's behavior during idle? Any unusual RPM fluctuations? Accurate readings of throttle position under different load conditions are critical for diagnosing the root cause. Have you investigated the throttle body itself for any signs of carbon buildup or mechanical obstruction?

I haven't checked for error codes myself. But what's the deal with the throttle position? How would that specifically contribute to these issues, especially poor starting?

An anomaly within the car throttle system will most certainly manifest as starting anomalies and inefficient fuel utilization. The throttle position sensor (TPS), integral to the engine throttle apparatus, directly informs the ECU about the driver's demand for power. Erroneous readings will disrupt the air-fuel mixture calibration, resulting in suboptimal combustion. Given the symptoms and mileage, I highly recommend a professional diagnostic assessment. A certified technician can perform in-depth evaluation of the throttle body, confirm the correct functionality of the TPS, and verify the integrity of associated wiring. Proceeding to a workshop is advisable for accurate resolution.

Thanks for the confirmation. I took it to a certified workshop. They diagnosed a defective accelerator pedal module. It's been replaced and the car is running smoothly again. The repair cost was 205€. Appreciate the help!