The Mini Convertible (R57) facelift, produced from 2011 to 2015, represented a mid-cycle refresh of the second-generation convertible model. The Cooper SD 2.0 Automatic variant, powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine producing 143 horsepower, occupied a middle ground in the lineup, offering a blend of fuel efficiency and reasonable performance. This model aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a stylish and economical open-top experience, particularly in European markets where diesel engines were highly prevalent. It sat above the base Cooper models and below the more powerful Cooper S variants.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mini |
| Model | Convertible |
| Generation | Convertible (R57, Facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | Cooper SD 2.0 (143 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 143 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 203 km/h (126.14 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.8 kg/Hp, 113 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 241.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 143 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 305 Nm @ 1750-2700 rpm (224.96 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | N47C20A |
| 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 | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1265 kg (2788.85 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1695 kg (3736.84 lbs.) |
| Max load | 430 kg (947.99 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 125 l (4.41 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 660 l (23.31 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 3729 mm (146.81 in.) |
| Width | 1683 mm (66.26 in.) |
| Height | 1414 mm (55.67 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2467 mm (97.13 in.) |
| Front track | 1459 mm (57.44 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1467 mm (57.76 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 139 mm (5.47 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.7 m (35.1 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 |
| Tires size | 195/55 R16 87V |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 LM |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Cooper SD Convertible was the N47C20A, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine was a product of BMW/PSA Peugeot Citroën collaboration, known for its efficiency and refinement. It featured common-rail direct injection, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and intercooler were employed to boost power and torque across a broad rev range. The engine utilized four valves per cylinder and a single overhead camshaft. The automatic transmission was a six-speed unit, offering smooth shifts and contributing to the car’s ease of driving. This transmission was specifically tuned to work with the diesel engine’s torque characteristics, prioritizing fuel economy and comfortable cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 143 hp and 305 Nm (225 lb-ft) of torque provided by the Cooper SD Automatic offered a respectable, if not exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 8.5 seconds, making it competitive with other small convertibles. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly sporty, prioritizing fuel efficiency over rapid gear changes. The engine’s peak torque was available from a low 1750 rpm, providing ample pulling power for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the Cooper S models with their petrol engines, the SD offered significantly better fuel economy but lacked the same level of outright performance. The manual transmission versions of the Cooper SD felt more engaging, but the automatic was favored by those seeking convenience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cooper SD Automatic typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a mid-range offering. Standard features included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system. Upholstery was usually cloth, though leather options were available. Common optional extras included a premium sound system, navigation system, heated seats, and parking sensors. The convertible top was electrically operated and featured a multi-layer construction for improved insulation. Trim levels could vary slightly depending on the market, but generally, the Cooper SD offered a good balance of comfort and features.
Chassis & Braking
The R57 Mini Convertible utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a relatively comfortable ride and decent handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The chassis was reinforced compared to the standard Mini hatchback to compensate for the loss of structural rigidity due to the convertible top. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort rather than outright sportiness, making it a pleasant cruiser.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Cooper SD Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and stylish design. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could feel a bit sluggish, and the performance wasn’t as exciting as the Cooper S models. Compared to other diesel-powered convertibles in its class, the Mini offered a more premium feel and a more engaging driving experience. Fuel economy was a key selling point, with the Cooper SD consistently achieving impressive MPG figures. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) system, a common concern with modern diesel engines.
Legacy
The Mini Convertible Cooper SD 2.0 Automatic has become a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for buyers seeking a stylish and economical open-top car. The N47 engine, while generally reliable, requires regular maintenance, including oil changes and DPF servicing. The automatic transmission is known to be durable if properly maintained. Today, these cars represent a relatively affordable entry point into Mini ownership, offering a unique blend of British style and German engineering. The combination of fuel efficiency and convertible fun continues to appeal to a wide range of drivers.
