The Mini Hatch (F55) 5-door Cooper SD 2.0 Automatic, produced from July 2014 to 2018, represents a significant iteration of the iconic British marque under BMW ownership. This variant occupied a mid-range position within the F55 5-door lineup, offering a blend of fuel efficiency, respectable performance, and practicality. It was primarily marketed in Europe and other regions where diesel engines were popular, offering a more economical alternative to the petrol-powered Cooper and Cooper S models. The F55 generation marked a substantial growth in size and sophistication compared to its predecessor, the R56, aiming to broaden the Mini’s appeal beyond its traditionally youthful demographic.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mini |
| Model | Hatch |
| Generation | Hatch (F55) 5-door |
| Type (Engine) | Cooper SD 2.0 (170 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | July, 2014 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.7 – 4.8 l/100 km (50 – 49 US mpg, 60.1 – 58.9 UK mpg, 21.3 – 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.7 – 3.8 l/100 km (63.6 – 61.9 US mpg, 76.3 – 74.3 UK mpg, 27 – 26.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.1 – 4.2 l/100 km (57.4 – 56 US mpg, 68.9 – 67.3 UK mpg, 24.4 – 23.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 107 – 109 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 223 km/h (138.57 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.4 kg/Hp, 136 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 kg/Nm, 288 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 360 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm (265.52 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B47C20B |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1250 kg (2755.78 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1775 kg (3913.21 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 | 44 l (11.62 US gal | 9.68 UK gal) |
| Length | 4005 mm (157.68 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, automatic 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 | 195/55 R16 87W |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Cooper SD 2.0 Automatic is powered by the BMW-developed B47C20B 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a member of the modular B-series engine family, known for its efficiency and refinement. It utilizes a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The B47 features a single turbocharger with variable geometry turbine (VGT) technology and an intercooler to enhance power and torque. The engine produces 170 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a substantial 360 Nm (265 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 2750 rpm. This broad torque curve is a hallmark of diesel engines, providing strong pulling power from low engine speeds. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, specifically the Aisin TF-60SN, known for its smooth shifts and reliability. This transmission was chosen for its balance of efficiency and driving comfort.
Driving Characteristics
The 170 hp diesel engine, coupled with the six-speed automatic, delivers a surprisingly brisk driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the Cooper S, the Cooper SD offers ample power for everyday driving and confident overtaking. The automatic transmission is well-programmed, providing smooth gear changes and responsive kickdown. The torque-rich engine means that the car feels strong even at lower speeds, making it well-suited for urban environments. Compared to the manual transmission version, the automatic offers greater convenience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. However, it does slightly diminish the sense of driver engagement. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy, with a relatively tall final drive contributing to good highway cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cooper SD 2.0 Automatic typically came equipped with a generous level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a multi-function steering wheel, and a basic audio system with USB connectivity. Higher trim levels, such as the Sport or Exclusive, added features like sport seats, upgraded interior trim, a larger touchscreen infotainment system, and parking sensors. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and various driver-assistance systems. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. The dashboard layout was modern and driver-focused, with a centrally-mounted infotainment screen and a clear instrument cluster.
Chassis & Braking
The F55 5-door Mini utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance of ride comfort and handling agility. The suspension is tuned to be slightly softer than the 3-door model, reflecting the 5-door’s focus on practicality and comfort. The Cooper SD 2.0 Automatic features ventilated front disc brakes and solid rear disc brakes. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, providing enhanced braking performance and stability. The steering is electrically assisted, offering precise and responsive control. The car’s relatively low center of gravity contributes to its nimble handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mini Cooper SD 2.0 Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined engine. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could occasionally feel hesitant, and the car’s price was relatively high compared to some competitors. Compared to the petrol-powered Cooper, the Cooper SD offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a popular choice for drivers who covered long distances. Compared to the more powerful Cooper S, the Cooper SD prioritized efficiency and comfort over outright performance. The 1.5L three-cylinder diesel was also available, but the 2.0L offered more power and refinement.
Legacy
The B47 engine, found in the Cooper SD, has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain, although some early models experienced issues with the timing chain. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and filter replacements, is crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. On the used car market, the F55 5-door Cooper SD 2.0 Automatic remains a popular choice, offering a compelling combination of style, practicality, and fuel efficiency. Its reputation for reliability and relatively low running costs contribute to its continued appeal. The F55 generation, and specifically this variant, helped solidify the Mini brand’s position as a premium small car, appealing to a wider range of buyers than ever before.
