The Mini Hatch (F55) 5-door Cooper 1.5, produced from March 2014 to 2018, represents a significant iteration in the modern Mini lineup. Positioned as a mainstream offering within the F55 generation – the first five-door version of the modern Mini – this variant aimed to broaden the brand’s appeal by offering increased practicality without sacrificing the core Mini driving experience. It slots into the range between the entry-level One models and the more performance-oriented Cooper S variants. The 1.5-liter engine, coupled with a six-speed manual transmission, provided a balance of fuel efficiency and acceptable performance for everyday driving. This model was primarily targeted at the European market, where compact, fuel-efficient hatchbacks are highly sought after, but also saw sales in North America and other global markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mini |
| Model | Hatch |
| Generation | Hatch (F55) 5-door |
| Type (Engine) | Cooper 1.5 (136 Hp) |
| Start of production | March, 2014 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.0 – 4.1 l/100 km (58.8 – 57.4 US mpg, 70.6 – 68.9 UK mpg, 25 – 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.7 – 4.8 l/100 km (50 – 49 US mpg, 60.1 – 58.9 UK mpg, 21.3 – 20.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 109 – 111 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 207 km/h (128.62 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.4 kg/Hp, 118.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 200.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 4500-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 90.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1250-4000 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 1250-4000 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 | 1145 kg (2524.29 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1670 kg (3681.72 lbs.) |
| Max load | 525 kg (1157.43 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 278 l (9.82 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 941 l (33.23 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 3982 mm (156.77 in.) |
| Width | 1727 mm (67.99 in.) |
| Height | 1425 mm (56.1 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2567 mm (101.06 in.) |
| Front track | 1501 mm (59.09 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1501 mm (59.09 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 146 mm (5.75 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| 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 |
| Tires size | 175/65 R15 84H |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the F55 5-door Cooper 1.5 is the BMW Group’s B38A15A engine. This 1.5-liter, inline-three cylinder engine is a member of the modular B-series engine family, known for its efficiency and advanced technology. It utilizes direct fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber for improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. A single twin-scroll turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides forced induction, boosting power output and torque. The engine also features variable valve timing (VANOS) and variable valve lift, optimizing engine performance across the rev range. The six-speed manual transmission offers precise shifts and contributes to the car’s engaging driving experience. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned to maximize fuel economy while still providing adequate acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5-liter Cooper 1.5, with its 136 horsepower and 169.64 lb-ft of torque, delivers a respectable, if not exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 7.8 seconds, making it competitive within its class. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power, particularly in the mid-range, making overtaking maneuvers relatively easy. Compared to the more powerful Cooper S models, the 1.5 feels less urgent, but it offers a more relaxed and fuel-efficient driving experience. The manual transmission is well-matched to the engine, providing a satisfying and engaging driving experience. The gear ratios are spaced appropriately, allowing the engine to stay within its optimal power band. The steering is precise and responsive, typical of the Mini brand, and the suspension provides a comfortable ride without sacrificing handling agility.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cooper 1.5 typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and alloy wheels. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Dashboard design featured the signature Mini circular central display, which housed infotainment functions. Optional extras included a larger touchscreen display with navigation, a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a premium sound system. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally offered packages that bundled together popular options.
Chassis & Braking
The F55 5-door Cooper 1.5 utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance of ride comfort and handling precision. The suspension is tuned to be slightly softer than the Cooper S models, prioritizing comfort over outright performance. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, providing enhanced braking performance and stability. The car’s relatively low weight contributes to its agile handling and efficient braking.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mini Cooper 1.5 was generally well-received by critics, who praised its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and engaging driving experience. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel a bit strained when pushed hard, and that the interior space, while improved with the five-door configuration, was still relatively limited. Compared to other trims in the lineup, the Cooper 1.5 offered a more affordable entry point into the Mini brand, appealing to buyers who prioritized fuel economy and practicality over outright performance. The 1.5 generally offered better fuel economy than the Cooper S, but significantly less power and acceleration. Reliability reports suggest that the B38 engine is generally reliable, but owners should be mindful of potential issues with the turbocharger and fuel injectors.
Legacy
The F55 5-door Cooper 1.5 has proven to be a popular choice in the used car market, offering a good balance of practicality, fuel efficiency, and driving enjoyment. The B38 engine has established a reputation for reasonable reliability, although regular maintenance is crucial to ensure long-term durability. The availability of spare parts is generally good, and the car’s relatively simple mechanical design makes it relatively easy to maintain. As a result, the F55 5-door Cooper 1.5 remains a desirable option for buyers looking for a stylish and efficient compact hatchback.
