The Mini Countryman Cooper S E 1.5 ALL4 Steptronic, produced from 2017 to 2018, represents Mini’s initial foray into the plug-in hybrid SUV market. Built on the UKL1 platform – shared with BMW’s 2 Series Active Tourer – the F60 Countryman aimed to broaden Mini’s appeal beyond its iconic small hatchbacks. This particular variant, combining a 1.5-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor, offered a balance of performance, efficiency, and all-wheel-drive capability. It positioned itself as a premium offering within the Countryman range, appealing to buyers seeking a more environmentally conscious and technologically advanced vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mini |
| Model | Countryman |
| Generation | Countryman (F60) |
| Type | Cooper S E 1.5 (224 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid ALL4 Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 2.1-2.3 l/100 km (112 – 102.3 US mpg, 134.5 – 122.8 UK mpg, 47.6 – 43.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 49-52 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 198 km/h (123.03 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.4 kg/Hp, 134.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 231.9 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 7.6 kWh |
| All-electric range | 41-42 km (25.48 – 26.1 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption | 13.2-14.0 kWh/100 km (21.24 – 22.53 kWh/100 mi, 159 – 150 MPGe, 7.6 – 7.1 km/kWh, 4.7 – 4.4 mi/kWh) |
| Electric motor power | 88 Hp @ 4000 rpm (165 Nm @ 0-3000 rpm / 121.7 lb.-ft. @ 0-3000 rpm) |
| System power | 224 Hp |
| System torque | 385 Nm (283.96 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine Power | 136 Hp @ 4400 rpm (220 Nm @ 1250-4300 rpm / 162.26 lb.-ft. @ 1250-4300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B38A15A |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94.6 mm (3.72 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 4.9 l (5.18 US qt | 4.31 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1660 kg (3659.67 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2270 kg (5004.49 lbs.) |
| Max load | 610 kg (1344.82 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 405 l (14.3 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1275 l (45.03 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 36 l (9.51 US gal | 7.92 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4299 mm (169.25 in.) |
| Width | 1822 mm (71.73 in.) |
| Height | 1559 mm (61.38 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm (105.12 in.) |
| Front track | 1563 mm (61.54 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 165 mm (6.5 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Cooper S E 1.5 utilizes a sophisticated plug-in hybrid system. The core of the powertrain is the BMW Group’s B38A15A 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, part of the modular B-series engine family, features direct fuel injection, a single twin-scroll turbocharger, and variable valve timing (Valvetronic). It produces 136 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. Complementing this is an 88-horsepower electric motor integrated into the eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. The electric motor draws power from a 7.6 kWh lithium-ion battery pack located under the rear seats. The combined system output is a respectable 224 horsepower and 284 lb-ft of torque. The Steptronic transmission is a torque-converter automatic, known for its smooth shifts and efficiency. It’s programmed to prioritize electric drive whenever possible, seamlessly blending in the gasoline engine when more power is needed.
Driving Characteristics
The Cooper S E 1.5 offers a unique driving experience. In electric-only mode, it provides quiet and smooth acceleration, suitable for city driving and short commutes, with a range of approximately 25-26 miles. Switching to Sport mode or demanding more power engages the gasoline engine, resulting in brisk acceleration – 0-60 mph in around 6.5 seconds. The all-wheel-drive system, provided by the electric motor powering the rear wheels, enhances traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. Compared to the standard Cooper S with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, the hybrid variant feels slightly heavier due to the battery pack, but the instant torque from the electric motor compensates for this, providing responsive acceleration. The automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering smooth gear changes, but lacks the engagement of a manual gearbox.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cooper S E 1.5 ALL4 Steptronic typically came well-equipped. Standard features included Mini’s infotainment system with a 6.5-inch touchscreen, navigation, automatic climate control, and a suite of safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. Interior upholstery was typically a combination of cloth and leatherette, with options for full leather. Available options included a larger 8.8-inch touchscreen, a Harman Kardon premium sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and various customization options through Mini’s personalization program. The trim level generally sat in the mid-range of the Countryman lineup, offering a premium experience without the full luxury of the JCW model.
Chassis & Braking
The F60 Countryman features a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. The Cooper S E 1.5 variant utilizes a slightly stiffer suspension setup to compensate for the added weight of the battery pack. Brakes are ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The ABS system is standard, along with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist. The steering is electric power-assisted, providing a responsive and precise feel. The all-wheel-drive system contributes to enhanced stability and handling, particularly on slippery surfaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Cooper S E 1.5 was generally well-received by critics, who praised its fuel efficiency, performance, and innovative plug-in hybrid technology. However, some reviewers noted the limited all-electric range and the relatively small rear cargo space due to the battery pack. Compared to the standard Cooper S, the hybrid variant offered significantly better fuel economy, but at a higher purchase price. Against competitors like the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, the Mini offered a more premium driving experience and a more stylish design, but with a smaller cargo capacity.
Legacy
The Cooper S E 1.5 ALL4 Steptronic marked a significant step for Mini in embracing electrification. While production was limited to two model years, it laid the groundwork for future plug-in hybrid and electric Mini models. On the used car market, these models hold their value reasonably well, appealing to buyers seeking a unique and efficient SUV. The B38 engine, while generally reliable, requires regular maintenance, particularly oil changes. The hybrid system components, including the battery pack and electric motor, have proven to be relatively durable, but potential buyers should have the system thoroughly inspected before purchase. The Cooper S E 1.5 remains a compelling option for those seeking a stylish, efficient, and technologically advanced compact SUV.
