The Mini Countryman (R60) One 1.6 (98 hp) Automatic was an entry-level variant of the first-generation Countryman, produced between 2010 and 2014. It represented Mini’s attempt to broaden the appeal of the brand by offering a more affordable and fuel-efficient option within the burgeoning compact SUV segment. While the Countryman itself was a significant departure for Mini – being their first five-door model and a move away from the brand’s traditionally small-car focus – the One 1.6 Automatic served as the gateway into the Countryman range for many buyers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mini |
| Model | Countryman |
| Generation | Countryman (R60) |
| Type (Engine) | One 1.6 (98 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 4-5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.3 l/100 km (25.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 168 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 168 km/h (104.39 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 98 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 153 Nm @ 3000 rpm (112.85 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | N16B16A |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1295 kg (2854.99 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1765 kg (3891.16 lbs.) |
| Max load | 470 kg (1036.17 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 350 l (12.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1170 l (41.32 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 47 l (12.42 US gal | 10.34 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4097 mm (161.3 in.) |
| Width | 1789 mm (70.43 in.) |
| Height | 1561 mm (61.46 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2595 mm (102.17 in.) |
| Front track | 1534 mm (60.39 in.) |
| Rear track | 1559 mm (61.38 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 149 mm (5.87 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, 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 |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 92H |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Overview and Market Positioning
Introduced as part of the R60 Countryman lineup, the One 1.6 Automatic occupied the entry-level position. It was designed to attract buyers who wanted the style and practicality of the Countryman but were more budget-conscious or prioritized fuel economy over outright performance. In the European market, where the Countryman was initially launched, it competed with other small SUVs and crossovers like the Nissan Qashqai and the Opel/Vauxhall Mokka. In the US, the Countryman, including the One 1.6, was positioned as a premium subcompact SUV, appealing to a younger demographic and those seeking a more stylish alternative to traditional options.
Engine and Transmission
The heart of the Countryman One 1.6 Automatic was the N16B16A 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This naturally aspirated engine produced 98 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 113 lb-ft of torque at 3000 rpm. While not a powerhouse, it provided adequate performance for everyday driving. The engine featured multi-port fuel injection and a compression ratio of 11:1. It was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth shifts and convenience, particularly in urban environments. This transmission was a key selling point for buyers who preferred the ease of automatic operation over a manual gearbox.
Performance and Handling
The One 1.6 Automatic’s performance was modest. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 13.2 seconds, and its top speed was limited to 104.39 mph. The focus wasn’t on speed, but on efficiency and usability. Fuel economy figures were respectable for the time, achieving around 32.7 US mpg on a combined cycle. The Countryman’s handling was generally considered competent, benefiting from its McPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension. However, the front-wheel-drive configuration and relatively modest power output didn’t make it a particularly sporty vehicle. It was more geared towards comfortable and predictable driving.
Comparison with Other Countryman Variants
The Countryman One 1.6 Automatic differed significantly from other variants in the R60 lineup. The Cooper models, powered by 1.6-liter turbocharged engines, offered considerably more power and performance. The Cooper S, with its even more potent turbocharged engine, was the performance flagship of the range. The diesel-powered Countryman variants, such as the One D and Cooper D, prioritized fuel economy even further, offering significantly better mpg figures but with less horsepower. Compared to these alternatives, the One 1.6 Automatic represented a balance between affordability, fuel efficiency, and usability. Maintenance costs for the One 1.6 were generally lower than those for the turbocharged or diesel variants, as it had fewer complex components. However, its slower acceleration and lower overall performance made it less appealing to drivers seeking a more engaging driving experience.
Interior and Features
The interior of the Countryman One 1.6 Automatic was typical of Mini’s design philosophy – quirky, stylish, and well-built. Standard features included air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. Optional extras, such as navigation, leather upholstery, and panoramic sunroof, were available to enhance the driving experience. The Countryman’s spacious interior and versatile cargo area (350-1170 liters) were key selling points, making it a practical choice for families or those who frequently transported larger items. The rear seats could be folded down to create a larger cargo space, further enhancing its practicality.
Legacy
The Mini Countryman (R60) One 1.6 Automatic played an important role in establishing the Countryman as a successful model for Mini. It broadened the brand’s appeal and attracted a wider range of customers. While it wasn’t the most powerful or sporty variant, it offered a compelling combination of style, practicality, and affordability. The R60 Countryman, including the One 1.6, paved the way for subsequent generations of the Countryman, which have continued to be popular choices in the compact SUV segment.
