The Mini Countryman Cooper ALL4, produced between 2010 and 2014 as part of the R60 generation, represented Mini’s first foray into the compact SUV segment. This variant, equipped with a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine producing 122 horsepower and paired with an all-wheel-drive system, aimed to offer a blend of Mini’s signature handling with increased practicality and all-weather capability. It occupied a mid-range position within the Countryman lineup, slotting above the base Cooper models and below the more powerful Cooper S variants. The R60 Countryman was built on the BMW UKL1 platform, shared with the first-generation BMW X1.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mini |
| Model | Countryman |
| Generation | Countryman (R60) |
| Type (Engine) | Cooper 1.6 (122 Hp) ALL4 |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 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 | 160 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 184 km/h (114.33 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 122 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 4250 rpm (118.01 lb.-ft. @ 4250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | N18B16A |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1340 kg (2954.19 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1850 kg (4078.55 lbs.) |
| Max load | 510 kg (1124.36 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 350 l (12.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1170 l (41.32 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 47 l (12.42 US gal | 10.34 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4097 mm (161.3 in.) |
| Width | 1789 mm (70.43 in.) |
| Height | 1561 mm (61.46 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2596 mm (102.2 in.) |
| Front track | 1537 mm (60.51 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1564 mm (61.57 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm (6.3 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual 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 | 205/60 R16 92H |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Countryman Cooper ALL4 is the N18B16A 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is a member of BMW’s N-series, known for its direct fuel injection, double VANOS variable valve timing, and a relatively high compression ratio of 11:1. The multi-port fuel injection system delivers fuel directly to the intake ports, optimizing combustion efficiency. The engine produces 122 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque at 4250 rpm. The all-wheel-drive system, branded as ALL4 by Mini, is a sophisticated on-demand system developed by Magna Steyr. It utilizes an electromagnetic multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, providing enhanced traction in various conditions. The standard transmission for this variant was a six-speed manual, although a six-speed automatic transmission was also available as an option.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter engine, while adequate for everyday driving, doesn’t deliver particularly brisk acceleration. The 0-60 mph time of around 11.3 seconds reflects this. The ALL4 system does improve grip and stability, especially on slippery surfaces, but adds weight compared to front-wheel-drive Countryman models. The six-speed manual transmission offers a reasonably engaging driving experience, with well-defined shift gates. However, the engine’s relatively narrow powerband requires frequent gear changes to maintain momentum. Compared to the Cooper S models with their turbocharged engines, the Cooper ALL4 feels noticeably less powerful and responsive. The automatic transmission, while convenient, further diminishes the sense of driver involvement.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Countryman Cooper ALL4 typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a multi-function steering wheel, and a basic audio system. Upholstery was typically cloth, although leather options were available. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, upgraded audio systems (including Harman Kardon), heated seats, and parking sensors. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally offered packages that bundled popular options together. The ALL4 designation itself was a key feature, appealing to buyers in regions with inclement weather or those seeking added security.
Chassis & Braking
The R60 Countryman features a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars are fitted front and rear to reduce body roll. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The ALL4 system’s weight distribution does slightly alter the handling balance compared to front-wheel-drive models, requiring minor adjustments to the suspension tuning.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Countryman Cooper ALL4 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its practicality, stylish design, and available all-wheel-drive system. However, the 1.6-liter engine was often criticized for being underpowered, especially when compared to the more potent Cooper S variants. Fuel economy was respectable, averaging around 34.1 US mpg in combined driving, but not class-leading. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the electrical system. Compared to other compact SUVs of the time, the Countryman offered a more premium feel and a more engaging driving experience, but at a higher price point.
Legacy
The N18B16A engine, while not known for being a high-performance unit, proved to be relatively reliable when properly maintained. The ALL4 all-wheel-drive system remains a desirable feature in the used car market, particularly in regions with harsh winters. Today, the R60 Countryman Cooper ALL4 represents an accessible entry point into the Mini brand, offering a unique blend of style, practicality, and all-weather capability. While not the fastest or most fuel-efficient option in its class, it remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a distinctive and well-built compact SUV.
