The Mini Countryman Cooper S ALL4 Automatic, produced between 2010 and 2014, represents a significant expansion of the Mini brand into the compact SUV segment. Based on the R60 platform – the first-generation Countryman – this variant combined a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with a six-speed automatic transmission and Mini’s ALL4 all-wheel-drive system. Positioned as a premium offering within the Countryman lineup, the Cooper S ALL4 Automatic aimed to deliver a blend of performance, practicality, and distinctive Mini styling. It served as a key model for attracting buyers seeking a more versatile and capable vehicle than the traditional Mini hatchback, particularly in markets like the United States where larger vehicles are preferred.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mini |
| Model | Countryman |
| Generation | Countryman (R60) |
| Type (Engine) | Cooper S 1.6 (184 Hp) ALL4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 4-5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.3 l/100 km (22.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 180 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 184 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1600-5000 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft.) |
| 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 | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1405 kg (3097.49 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1865 kg (4111.62 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460 kg (1014.13 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%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4110 mm (161.81 in.) |
| Width | 1789 mm (70.43 in.) |
| Height | 1561 mm (61.46 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2595 mm (102.17 in.) |
| Front track | 1525 mm (60.04 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1551 mm (61.06 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 149 mm (5.87 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic 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 | 205/55 R17 91V RSC |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17 LM |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Cooper S ALL4 Automatic is the N18B16A 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is a member of the BMW/PSA Prince engine family, known for its compact size and efficiency. It features direct fuel injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger, and variable valve timing (Double VANOS) on both the intake and exhaust camshafts. The turbocharger is crucial for boosting power output, delivering 184 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque between 1600 and 5000 rpm. The six-speed automatic transmission, a common Aisin unit used by BMW at the time, was specifically tuned to work with the engine’s torque curve. While not known for lightning-fast shifts, it provided smooth and predictable gear changes, prioritizing comfort and drivability over outright performance. The ALL4 system is a torque-on-demand system, primarily operating as front-wheel drive but seamlessly engaging the rear wheels when traction is lost.
Driving Characteristics
The Cooper S ALL4 Automatic offered a noticeably different driving experience compared to the base Countryman models or even the manual transmission Cooper S. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did slightly diminish the sense of direct control enjoyed by drivers of the manual version. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 7.9 seconds, respectable for the time but slower than the manual counterpart. The ALL4 system provided enhanced grip, particularly in inclement weather, making the vehicle feel more stable and secure. However, the added weight of the all-wheel-drive system and automatic transmission did impact handling agility compared to the lighter, front-wheel-drive models. The gear ratios were optimized for everyday driving, providing adequate power for merging onto highways and passing maneuvers, but lacked the aggressive tuning found in more performance-focused vehicles.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cooper S ALL4 Automatic typically came standard with features such as automatic climate control, power windows and locks, a multi-function steering wheel, and a basic audio system. Upholstery was usually a combination of cloth and leatherette, with optional full leather available. Common optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, upgraded audio systems (Harman Kardon was a popular choice), and parking sensors. The Countryman also offered a range of customization options through Mini’s extensive accessory catalog, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles with unique styling elements.
Chassis & Braking
The R60 Countryman featured a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride quality. The Cooper S ALL4 Automatic models generally had slightly stiffer springs and dampers compared to the base Countryman to compensate for the added weight. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard, along with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD). The steering system utilized a rack-and-pinion setup, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Cooper S ALL4 Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its blend of performance, practicality, and distinctive styling. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission dulled the driving experience compared to the manual version. Fuel economy was considered average for the segment, with combined figures around 30.5 US mpg. Compared to other trims, the Cooper S ALL4 Automatic represented a significant price premium, but offered a noticeable increase in performance and all-weather capability. The base Cooper models prioritized fuel efficiency and affordability, while the John Cooper Works (JCW) variant focused on outright performance.
Legacy
The N18 engine, while generally reliable, is known to be susceptible to certain issues, including carbon buildup on the intake valves and potential oil leaks. The automatic transmission, if properly maintained, is typically durable. Today, the R60 Countryman Cooper S ALL4 Automatic represents an affordable entry point into the Mini brand, offering a unique combination of style, practicality, and all-wheel-drive capability. Well-maintained examples continue to be sought after by enthusiasts and those looking for a distinctive and fun-to-drive compact SUV.
