The Mini Countryman Cooper SE 1.5 (220 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid ALL4 Steptronic, produced from July 2020 to October 2023, represents a significant step in Mini’s electrification strategy. This variant, based on the F60 Countryman platform (post-facelift), combines a 1.5-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor, offering all-wheel drive capability and a focus on fuel efficiency. It sits within the Countryman lineup as a premium offering, bridging the gap between the standard gasoline models and the fully electric Countryman SE. The “ALL4” designation indicates Mini’s all-wheel drive system, and the “Steptronic” refers to the 6-speed automatic transmission.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mini |
| Model | Countryman |
| Generation | Countryman (F60, facelift 2020) |
| Type (Engine) | Cooper SE 1.5 (220 Hp) Plug-in hybrid ALL4 Steptronic |
| Start of production | July, 2020 |
| End of production | October, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 1.7-2.0 l/100 km (138.4 – 117.6 US mpg, 166.2 – 141.2 UK mpg, 58.8 – 50 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 40-45 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 196 km/h (121.79 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp, 128.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 224.5 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 10 kWh |
| All-electric range | 55-61 km (34.18 – 37.9 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption | 13.1-14.0 kWh/100 km (21.08 – 22.53 kWh/100 mi, 160 – 150 MPGe, 7.6 – 7.1 km/kWh, 4.7 – 4.4 mi/kWh) |
| Max speed (electric) | 135 km/h (83.89 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 95 Hp @ 3900 rpm (165 Nm @ 100-3000 rpm / 121.7 lb.-ft. @ 100-3000 rpm) |
| System power | 220 Hp |
| System torque | 385 Nm (283.96 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine Power | 125 Hp @ 5000-5500 rpm (83.4 Hp/l) |
| Engine Torque | 220 Nm @ 1500-3800 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3800 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 |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1715 kg (3780.93 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2270 kg (5004.49 lbs.) |
| Max load | 555 kg (1223.57 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 405 l (14.3 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1275 l (45.03 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 36 l (9.51 US gal | 7.92 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4297 mm (169.17 in.) |
| Width | 1822 mm (71.73 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2001 mm (78.78 in.) |
| Height | 1559 mm (61.38 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm (105.12 in.) |
| Front track | 1563 mm (61.54 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 147 mm (5.79 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE permanently drives front wheels, electric motor drives rear wheels. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Type of gearbox | automatic transmission Steptronic |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Cooper SE 1.5 utilizes a sophisticated plug-in hybrid system. The core of the powertrain is the BMW Group’s B38A15A 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, part of the B38 family, features direct fuel injection and a single twin-scroll turbocharger. It produces 125 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. The electric motor, positioned on the rear axle, contributes an additional 95 horsepower and 121.7 lb-ft of torque. Combined, the system delivers a total output of 220 horsepower and 283.96 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a 6-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. The 10 kWh battery pack allows for an all-electric range of 34.18 to 37.9 miles, depending on driving conditions. The battery can be charged via a standard 120V outlet, a 240V wallbox, or a public charging station.
Driving Characteristics
The Cooper SE 1.5 offers a unique driving experience. In electric mode, the vehicle provides near-silent acceleration and instant torque, making it ideal for city driving. When the gasoline engine engages, the transition is generally smooth. The all-wheel drive system, provided by the combination of front-wheel drive from the gasoline engine and rear-wheel drive from the electric motor, enhances traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. Compared to the standard gasoline-powered Countryman variants, the Cooper SE 1.5 offers quicker acceleration (0-60 mph in approximately 6.5 seconds) due to the combined power output. However, the added weight of the battery pack does slightly impact handling agility compared to lighter models. The Steptronic transmission provides responsive shifts, but lacks the engagement of a manual gearbox.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cooper SE 1.5 typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a premium trim level. Standard features included Mini’s infotainment system with a touchscreen display, navigation, Apple CarPlay, and a premium sound system. Interior upholstery was typically a combination of cloth and leatherette, with options for full leather available. Other standard features included automatic climate control, parking sensors, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, head-up display, and adaptive cruise control.
Chassis & Braking
The Cooper SE 1.5 utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension tuning is slightly firmer than that of the standard Countryman models to compensate for the added weight of the battery pack. Brakes are ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The ALL4 system incorporates an electronic limited-slip differential to optimize traction. The steering is electric power-assisted, offering precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mini Countryman Cooper SE 1.5 was generally well-received by critics, who praised its fuel efficiency, all-electric range, and engaging driving dynamics. Compared to other plug-in hybrid SUVs in its class, the Countryman SE 1.5 offered a more premium and sporty driving experience. However, some critics noted that the all-electric range was relatively limited compared to some competitors. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined figures ranging from 1.7 to 2.0 liters per 100 kilometers. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with few major issues reported.
Legacy
The Mini Countryman Cooper SE 1.5 represents an important step in Mini’s transition to electric mobility. While the model has been superseded by the fully electric Countryman SE, the PHEV variant remains a popular choice in the used car market. The B38 engine, while known for its efficiency, requires regular maintenance, including oil changes and spark plug replacements. The hybrid system components, including the battery pack and electric motor, are generally reliable, but may require eventual replacement as they age. Overall, the Cooper SE 1.5 offers a compelling combination of fuel efficiency, performance, and practicality, making it a desirable option for buyers seeking a premium plug-in hybrid SUV.
