The Mini Countryman One 1.5 (102 hp) was a front-wheel-drive subcompact SUV produced by Mini from 2017 to 2018 as part of the F60 Countryman generation. Positioned as the entry-level model in the Countryman lineup, it offered a more accessible price point while retaining the brand’s signature styling and handling characteristics. This variant aimed to attract buyers seeking a premium small SUV with reasonable running costs. It served as the base model, slotting below the Cooper and Cooper S trims, which offered more powerful engines and additional features.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mini |
| Model | Countryman |
| Generation | Countryman (F60) |
| Type (Engine) | One 1.5 (102 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.7-7.0 l/100 km (35.1 – 33.6 US mpg, 42.2 – 40.4 UK mpg, 14.9 – 14.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.8-5.1 l/100 km (49 – 46.1 US mpg, 58.9 – 55.4 UK mpg, 20.8 – 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.5-5.8 l/100 km (42.8 – 40.6 US mpg, 51.4 – 48.7 UK mpg, 18.2 – 17.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 126-133 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.4 kg/Hp, 74.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.6 kg/Nm, 131.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 102 Hp @ 4100-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68 Hp/l |
| Torque | 180 Nm @ 1250-3800 rpm (132.76 lb.-ft. @ 1250-3800 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 | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| 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 | 1365 kg (3009.31 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1940 kg (4276.97 lbs.) |
| Max load | 575 kg (1267.66 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%) | 1100 kg (2425.08 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 710 kg (1565.28 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4299 mm (169.25 in.) |
| Width | 1822 mm (71.73 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2005 mm (78.94 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) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| 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 | 205/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16 |
INTRODUCTION
The Mini Countryman One 1.5, launched in 2017, represented Mini’s attempt to broaden the appeal of its second-generation Countryman (F60) by offering a more affordable and fuel-efficient option. Built on the UKL2 platform – shared with other BMW Group vehicles like the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer – the F60 Countryman was the largest Mini model available at the time, offering increased practicality and space compared to the standard Mini hatchback. The One 1.5 variant, with its 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, was designed to provide a balance between performance and economy, targeting urban drivers and those seeking a stylish and versatile crossover.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Countryman One 1.5 is the BMW B38A15A 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine. This engine is part of BMW’s modular engine family and features direct fuel injection, a single twin-scroll turbocharger, and an intercooler. The engine produces 102 horsepower at 4,100-6,000 rpm and 180 Nm (132.76 lb-ft) of torque between 1,250 and 3,800 rpm. The engine utilizes a timing chain for durability and features a relatively high compression ratio of 11:1. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. The standard transmission for this variant was a six-speed manual gearbox, although a six-speed automatic transmission was also available as an option. The automatic transmission, while offering convenience, slightly impacted acceleration and fuel economy compared to the manual.
Driving Characteristics
The Countryman One 1.5, with its 102 hp and front-wheel drive configuration, offered a comfortable but not particularly sporty driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 11.2 seconds, and the top speed was limited to 111.85 mph. The turbocharger provided a noticeable boost in power, but the engine could feel strained when pushed hard, especially when fully loaded. The six-speed manual transmission offered precise shifts, while the optional automatic transmission provided smooth gear changes but lacked the engagement of the manual. The suspension, tuned for comfort, absorbed bumps well, but the car exhibited some body roll in corners. The steering was light and accurate, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Countryman One 1.5 came standard with a respectable level of equipment, including air conditioning, power windows, a 6.5-inch infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Safety features included ABS, stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included a larger 8.8-inch infotainment system with navigation, a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a variety of driver-assistance systems. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with leather options available at an extra cost. The dashboard layout was typical of Mini, with a centrally mounted circular display and toggle switches.
Chassis & Braking
The Countryman One 1.5 featured a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The car’s weight of approximately 1365 kg (3009.31 lbs) contributed to its moderate handling characteristics. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort over outright sportiness, making it well-suited for everyday driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Countryman One 1.5 was generally well-received by critics as an accessible entry point into the Countryman range. However, some reviewers noted that the engine felt underpowered, especially when compared to the more potent Cooper and Cooper S variants. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined figures ranging from 40.6 to 42.8 US mpg. Compared to the Cooper, the One 1.5 offered lower running costs but sacrificed performance. The Cooper S provided a significant performance upgrade but came at a higher price. Reliability reports for the B38 engine have been generally positive, although some owners have reported minor issues with the turbocharger and fuel injectors.
Legacy
The Countryman One 1.5, despite its relatively short production run, remains a popular choice in the used car market. Its combination of Mini styling, practicality, and reasonable running costs makes it an attractive option for buyers seeking a small SUV. The B38 engine has proven to be relatively durable, and parts availability is generally good. While not the most exciting version of the Countryman, the One 1.5 offers a comfortable and reliable driving experience, making it a solid all-around choice for everyday use. Its value proposition continues to appeal to those seeking a premium brand experience without the higher price tag of the more powerful trims.
