Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mini |
| Model | Countryman |
| Generation | Countryman (F60) |
| Type (Engine) | JCW 2.0 (231 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 158 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 234 km/h (145.4 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 231 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1450-4500 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B48A20B |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94.6 mm (3.72 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.3 l (5.6 US qt | 4.66 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1555 kg (3428.19 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2150 kg (4739.94 lbs.) |
| Max load | 595 kg (1311.75 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 trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4299 mm (169.25 in.) |
| Width | 1822 mm (71.73 in.) |
| Height | 1557 mm (61.3 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm (105.12 in.) |
| Front track | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Rear track | 1567 mm (61.69 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent, 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 |
| Tires size | 225/50 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18 |
The Mini Countryman JCW 2.0 Steptronic, launched in 2017, was a key component of Mini’s strategy to broaden the appeal of the Countryman. Built on the UKL1 platform (shared with BMW’s 2 Series Active Tourer), the F60 Countryman represented a move towards a more practical and spacious Mini. The JCW variant, however, prioritized performance, offering a significant upgrade over the standard Cooper and Cooper S models. The Steptronic designation indicates the inclusion of an 8-speed automatic transmission, a popular choice for buyers seeking convenience alongside performance.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the JCW Countryman is the BMW B48A20B 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine. This engine is a member of BMW’s modular engine family, known for its efficiency and performance. The B48 utilizes direct fuel injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger, and variable valve timing (VANOS) and valve lift (Valvetronic) technologies to optimize power delivery and fuel economy. The engine produces 231 horsepower at 5000-6000 rpm and 258 lb-ft of torque between 1450 and 4500 rpm. The 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, co-developed with Aisin, features a torque converter and provides smooth and relatively quick shifts. It offers both automatic and manual shift modes, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The JCW 2.0 Steptronic delivers a noticeably more spirited driving experience than the lower-trim Countryman models. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 6.2 seconds, and the car reaches a top speed of 145.4 mph. While the automatic transmission provides convenience, it doesn’t quite match the responsiveness of the available 6-speed manual. The Steptronic transmission is programmed to hold gears longer in Sport mode, maximizing engine power during aggressive driving. The JCW also benefits from a sport-tuned suspension, which reduces body roll and improves handling. However, the ride quality is firmer than the standard Countryman, which may be a drawback for some drivers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The JCW trim level came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including sport seats, a sport leather steering wheel, and JCW-specific exterior styling cues (such as unique bumpers, side skirts, and a rear spoiler). Interior upholstery typically consisted of cloth/leatherette combination or optional full leather. Standard technology included a 6.5-inch infotainment system with Mini Connected services, automatic climate control, and parking sensors. Optional extras included a larger 8.8-inch infotainment system with navigation, a Harman Kardon premium sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and adaptive cruise control. The JCW also offered a range of customization options, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicle with various colors, trims, and accessories.
Chassis & Braking
The JCW Countryman features a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, both tuned for enhanced performance. Compared to the Cooper and Cooper S models, the JCW benefits from thicker stabilizer bars and stiffer springs. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The JCW’s chassis is designed to provide a stable and predictable handling experience, even during spirited driving. The front track is 1565mm and the rear track is 1567mm.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the JCW Countryman for its engaging driving dynamics and powerful engine. However, some reviewers noted that the ride quality was firm and that the automatic transmission wasn’t as responsive as the manual. Compared to the Cooper S Automatic, the JCW offered a significant performance boost, but at a higher price point. The JCW also provided a more premium feel and a more comprehensive list of standard features. Fuel economy was respectable for a performance SUV, averaging around 34.1 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with few major issues reported with the B48 engine and Steptronic transmission.
Legacy
The Mini Countryman JCW 2.0 Steptronic remains a popular choice in the used car market, appealing to buyers seeking a sporty and practical compact SUV. The B48 engine has proven to be relatively reliable, although regular maintenance is essential. The Steptronic transmission is also generally durable, but it’s important to ensure that it has been properly serviced. The F60 JCW represents a significant step forward in terms of performance and refinement for the Countryman, establishing it as a credible competitor in the premium subcompact SUV segment. Its blend of Mini’s iconic styling, BMW’s engineering expertise, and a potent powertrain continues to attract enthusiasts today.
