The Mini Countryman Cooper 1.5 (136 Hp) Steptronic, produced from July 2020 to October 2023, represents a key variant within the F60 Countryman facelift generation. Positioned as an entry-level to mid-range offering, this model combined a fuel-efficient 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbocharged engine with a seven-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. It aimed to provide a balance of practicality, affordability, and the signature Mini driving experience within the compact SUV segment. This version was particularly important in markets where automatic transmissions are highly preferred, such as the United States and parts of Asia.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mini |
| Model | Countryman |
| Generation | Countryman (F60, facelift 2020) |
| Type (Engine) | Cooper 1.5 (136 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | July, 2020 |
| End of production | October, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.2-6.6 l/100 km (37.9 – 35.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.7-5.1 l/100 km (50 – 46.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.3-5.6 l/100 km (44.4 – 42 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 120-129 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 4500-6500 rpm |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 1480-4100 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft. @ 1480-4100 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) |
| Kerb Weight | 1430 kg (3152.61 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1990 kg (4387.2 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560 kg (1234.59 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 450 l (15.89 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1390 l (49.09 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 51 l (13.47 US gal | 11.22 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4297 mm (169.17 in.) |
| Width | 1822 mm (71.73 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2001 mm (78.78 in.) |
| Height | 1557 mm (61.3 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm (105.12 in.) |
| Front track | 1585 mm (62.4 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1587 mm (62.48 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 165 mm (6.5 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Countryman Cooper 1.5 Steptronic lies the BMW Group’s B38A15A engine. This 1.5-liter inline three-cylinder engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a single twin-scroll turbocharger with an intercooler. The engine’s design prioritizes efficiency and responsiveness. The turbocharger is crucial for mitigating the inherent power limitations of a small-displacement engine, providing boost across a broad RPM range. The engine also features variable valve timing (VANOS) on both the intake and exhaust sides, further optimizing performance and fuel economy. The Steptronic seven-speed automatic transmission is a conventional torque-converter automatic, known for its smooth shifts and adaptability. It features a wide gear ratio spread, aiding both acceleration and highway cruising efficiency. The transmission is programmed for comfort and fuel economy, with a sport mode available for more aggressive shifting.
Driving Characteristics
The 136 hp and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the Cooper 1.5 Steptronic provide adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 9.2 seconds, and the top speed is 127.38 mph. Compared to the more powerful Countryman variants, such as the Cooper S, this version feels noticeably less urgent. However, the Steptronic transmission helps to keep the engine in its optimal power band, making everyday driving relatively effortless. The automatic transmission’s programming prioritizes smooth transitions and fuel efficiency, which can sometimes result in a slight delay in response when requesting sudden acceleration. The gear ratios are tuned for comfortable cruising, but downshifts can be somewhat hesitant. Compared to a manual transmission equipped Countryman, the automatic version sacrifices some driver engagement but gains in convenience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Countryman Cooper 1.5 Steptronic typically came standard with features such as automatic climate control, a 6.5-inch infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety features including ABS, stability control, and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leatherette or full leather available. Optional extras included a larger touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system. Trim levels varied by market, but generally, the Cooper 1.5 Steptronic served as the base model, with higher trims adding more luxurious appointments and additional features.
Chassis & Braking
The F60 Countryman utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform with independent suspension all around. The front suspension employs McPherson struts with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear features a multi-link setup. This suspension configuration provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, providing enhanced stopping power and stability in emergency braking situations. The steering is electrically assisted, offering a light and precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Countryman Cooper 1.5 Steptronic was generally well-received by critics as a practical and stylish compact SUV. Its fuel economy, averaging between 42 and 44 US mpg in combined driving, was a significant selling point. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to the more powerful Cooper S and John Cooper Works variants, the 1.5-liter engine lacked the same level of performance. However, it offered a more affordable entry point into the Countryman range. In terms of reliability, the B38 engine has proven to be generally robust, although some owners have reported issues with the timing chain and cooling system.
Legacy
The Mini Countryman Cooper 1.5 Steptronic remains a popular choice in the used car market due to its blend of practicality, fuel efficiency, and brand appeal. The B38 engine, while not without its potential issues, is generally considered reliable with proper maintenance. The Steptronic transmission is also known for its durability. As a result, well-maintained examples of this variant continue to command reasonable prices. The F60 Countryman, and specifically this 1.5L variant, helped solidify Mini’s position as a mainstream player in the compact SUV segment, appealing to a wider audience than ever before.
