The Mini Countryman One 1.5 (102 hp) Steptronic, produced from November 2020 to July 2022, represents an entry-level offering within the F60 Countryman facelift range. Positioned as the most accessible variant, it aimed to broaden the Countryman’s appeal to buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and affordability within the premium subcompact SUV segment. This model utilizes a three-cylinder turbocharged engine paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, offering a balance between Mini’s characteristic driving dynamics and practical everyday usability. It falls within the second generation of the Countryman (F60), which itself is based on the UKL2 platform shared with other BMW Group vehicles.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mini |
| Model | Countryman |
| Generation | Countryman (F60, facelift 2020) |
| Type (Engine) | One 1.5 (102 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | November, 2020 |
| End of production | July, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 6.2-6.9 l/100 km (37.9 – 34.1 US mpg, 45.6 – 40.9 UK mpg, 16.1 – 14.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 141-156 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.2-6.6 l/100 km (37.9 – 35.6 US mpg, 45.6 – 42.8 UK mpg, 16.1 – 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5-5.2 l/100 km (47 – 45.2 US mpg, 56.5 – 54.3 UK mpg, 20 – 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.4-5.7 l/100 km (43.6 – 41.3 US mpg, 52.3 – 49.6 UK mpg, 18.5 – 17.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 124-131 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.9 kg/Hp, 71.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.5 kg/Nm, 133.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 102 Hp @ 3900-6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68 Hp/l |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 1380-3600 rpm (140.14 lb.-ft. @ 1380-3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B38A15A |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.1 l (7.5 US qt | 6.25 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1420 kg (3130.56 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1985 kg (4376.18 lbs.) |
| Max load | 565 kg (1245.61 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 450 l (15.89 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1390 l (49.09 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 51 l (13.47 US gal | 11.22 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 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 | 1557 mm (61.3 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm (105.12 in.) |
| Front track | 1563 mm (61.54 in.) |
| Rear track | 1563 mm (61.54 in.) |
| Front overhang | 834 mm (32.83 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 793 mm (31.22 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 165 mm (6.5 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission Steptronic |
| 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 |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/65 R16 95H |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16 ET41 |
INTRODUCTION
The Mini Countryman One 1.5 Steptronic, introduced with the 2020 facelift of the F60 generation, serves as the entry point into the Countryman range. The facelift brought updated styling, improved technology, and refined engine options. This particular variant aimed to attract buyers seeking a premium, compact SUV with a focus on fuel economy and ease of driving. The UKL2 platform, underpinning the F60, allows for a front-wheel-drive configuration, which is standard on the One 1.5, contributing to its efficiency. It’s positioned below the Cooper and Cooper S models, offering a more accessible price point while retaining the core Mini brand identity.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Countryman One 1.5 lies the BMW Group’s B38A15A engine, a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine. This engine is part of the modular B-series engine family, known for its efficiency and compact design. It utilizes direct fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber for improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine also features a single twin-scroll turbocharger with an intercooler, enhancing responsiveness and power delivery. The engine produces 102 horsepower at 3900-6500 rpm and 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque between 1380-3600 rpm.
The engine is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (Steptronic), offering quick and smooth gear changes. This transmission contributes to both fuel efficiency and a more engaging driving experience compared to a traditional automatic. The Steptronic transmission features adaptive learning, adjusting shift points based on driving style and conditions. The powertrain also incorporates a Start & Stop system to further reduce fuel consumption in urban environments, and a particulate filter to minimize emissions.
Driving Characteristics
The Countryman One 1.5 Steptronic delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience, prioritizing ease of use over outright performance. With 102 hp, acceleration is adequate for everyday driving, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 11.4 seconds. The Steptronic transmission provides smooth and timely gear changes, masking some of the limitations of the three-cylinder engine. The front-wheel-drive configuration offers predictable handling, although it lacks the all-weather capability of the optional ALL4 all-wheel-drive system available on higher-trim models. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, with taller gearing in higher gears to reduce engine speed at cruising speeds. Compared to the more powerful Cooper and Cooper S variants, the One 1.5 feels less eager to accelerate, but it provides a more relaxed and economical driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Countryman One 1.5 Steptronic typically comes standard with features such as 16-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, a 6.5-inch infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Safety features include ABS, stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras include larger alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, a premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance systems like parking sensors and adaptive cruise control. Interior upholstery is typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. The dashboard layout is characteristic of the F60 Countryman, featuring a centrally mounted infotainment screen and a toggle switch-based control system.
Chassis & Braking
The Countryman One 1.5 utilizes an independent suspension setup, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality and good handling characteristics. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The suspension is tuned for comfort, prioritizing ride quality over sporty handling. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Countryman One 1.5 Steptronic was generally well-received by critics as an accessible entry point into the Countryman range. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and stylish interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of the more powerful variants. Compared to the Cooper models, the One 1.5 offers lower running costs but sacrifices performance. Against competitors like the Audi Q2 and BMW X1, the Countryman One 1.5 offers a unique blend of style, practicality, and driving dynamics. Fuel economy figures of 6.2-6.9 l/100km (37.9-34.1 mpg) were competitive within its class.
Legacy
The B38 engine family, including the 1.5-liter unit found in the Countryman One, has proven to be relatively reliable. Common issues are generally minor and related to the turbocharger or fuel injection system. The Steptronic transmission is also generally reliable, but regular maintenance is crucial to ensure smooth operation. On the used car market, the Countryman One 1.5 represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a premium subcompact SUV with low running costs. Its relatively simple powertrain and robust build quality contribute to its long-term durability.
