The Mini Countryman (R60) Cooper D 1.6, produced from 2010 to 2014, represented Mini’s entry into the compact SUV segment. This variant, powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged diesel engine producing 112 horsepower, served as a fuel-efficient and practical option within the broader Countryman lineup, which also included more powerful petrol variants like the Cooper S and performance-oriented ALL4 models. Positioned as the base diesel offering, the Cooper D 1.6 aimed to attract buyers prioritizing economy and everyday usability over outright performance. It was built on the R60 platform, the first generation of the Countryman, and shared its underpinnings with the BMW X1.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mini |
| Model | Countryman |
| Generation | Countryman (R60) |
| Type (Engine) | Cooper D 1.6 (112 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 4-5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 115 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.7 kg/Hp, 85.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 206.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 112 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1750-2250 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | N47C16A |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 78 mm (3.07 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83.6 mm (3.29 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 | 1310 kg (2888.06 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1780 kg (3924.23 lbs.) |
| Max load | 470 kg (1036.17 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.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4097 mm (161.3 in.) |
| Width | 1789 mm (70.43 in.) |
| Height | 1561 mm (61.46 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2595 mm (102.17 in.) |
| Front track | 1534 mm (60.39 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1559 mm (61.38 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 149 mm (5.87 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, 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 LM |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Cooper D 1.6 is the N47C16A, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine was a key component of BMW and Mini’s EfficientDynamics program, focusing on fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. It features a single overhead camshaft, four valves per cylinder, and a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output. The N47 engine family was known for its advanced common rail direct injection system, operating at extremely high pressures (1600 bar in later iterations) for optimized fuel atomization and combustion. This particular version, producing 112 hp, utilized a smaller turbocharger and different engine mapping compared to higher-output variants within the N47 range. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The transmission offered was a 6-speed manual, providing a balance between fuel economy and driver engagement. While an automatic transmission was available on other Countryman models, it wasn’t typically paired with this specific 1.6L diesel engine.
Driving Characteristics
The Cooper D 1.6 Countryman offered a comfortable and refined driving experience, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance. With 112 horsepower and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque, acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, but not particularly brisk. The 0-60 mph time of around 10.4 seconds reflects this. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in torque from around 1750 rpm, making it reasonably responsive in mid-range acceleration. Compared to the Cooper S, which boasted significantly more power, the Cooper D felt noticeably slower, especially when fully loaded. The manual transmission’s gear ratios were geared towards maximizing fuel efficiency, resulting in a slightly less engaging driving experience than the sportier variants. However, the engine’s torque delivery made it easy to drive in urban environments and on the highway.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cooper D 1.6 Countryman typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. Interior upholstery was usually cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Standard equipment included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and alloy wheels. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, upgraded audio systems (Harman Kardon), parking sensors, and various cosmetic enhancements. Trim levels were relatively simple, with the Cooper D 1.6 serving as the base diesel model. Higher trim levels, often bundled as packages, added features like automatic climate control, rain-sensing wipers, and more luxurious interior appointments.
Chassis & Braking
The Countryman R60 featured a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. The suspension was tuned for comfort rather than outright sportiness. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The weight distribution was fairly balanced, contributing to predictable handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering. The 205/60 R16 tires provided adequate grip for most driving conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mini Countryman Cooper D 1.6 was generally well-received by critics as a practical and fuel-efficient option in the compact SUV segment. Its strengths lay in its comfortable ride, stylish design, and impressive fuel economy (around 53.5 US mpg combined). However, it was often criticized for its relatively modest performance compared to its petrol-powered siblings. Compared to the Cooper S, the Cooper D offered significantly lower running costs but lacked the same level of driving excitement. The 1.6-liter diesel engine proved to be reliable, although some owners reported issues with the turbocharger and fuel injectors over the long term. Its fuel economy was competitive with other diesel SUVs of the time, such as the Volkswagen Tiguan and Nissan Qashqai.
Legacy
The N47 engine family, including the 1.6-liter variant found in the Cooper D, has proven to be generally reliable, although preventative maintenance is crucial. The timing chain, in particular, has been a known weak point in some N47 engines, and regular oil changes are essential to prevent premature wear. On the used car market, the Cooper D 1.6 Countryman represents a relatively affordable entry point into Mini ownership. Its fuel efficiency and practicality make it a popular choice for those seeking a stylish and economical SUV. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for timing chain issues and ensure that the vehicle has been properly maintained. The R60 Countryman, as Mini’s first foray into the SUV market, paved the way for the current generation Countryman and helped establish Mini as a more versatile and mainstream brand.
