The Mini Coupe (R58) Cooper S 1.6 Automatic, produced between 2011 and 2015, represented a unique offering within the second-generation Mini lineup (R56). Positioned as a sporty, two-seater coupe derived from the successful Mini Hatch, the Cooper S Automatic aimed to deliver a more focused driving experience than its more practical hatchback sibling. It was built on the Mini’s familiar 1HX0/A3 platform, sharing many components with the Hatch and Convertible models, but distinguished itself with a sloping roofline and a dedicated coupe aesthetic. This variant, equipped with the 184 horsepower turbocharged engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, occupied a mid-range position within the Coupe lineup, offering a balance between performance and convenience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mini |
| Model | Coupe |
| Generation | Coupe (R58) |
| Type (Engine) | Cooper S 1.6 (184 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 149 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 224 km/h (139.19 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 184 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1600-5000 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1600-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | N18B16 |
| 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 | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1190 kg (2623.5 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1480 kg (3262.84 lbs.) |
| Max load | 290 kg (639.34 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 280 l (9.89 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 3734 mm (147.01 in.) |
| Width | 1683 mm (66.26 in.) |
| Height | 1384 mm (54.49 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2467 mm (97.13 in.) |
| Front track | 1453 mm (57.2 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1461 mm (57.52 in.) |
| Front overhang | 696 mm (27.4 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 571 mm (22.48 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 139 mm (5.47 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.36 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| 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 | 195/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Cooper S Automatic is the N18B16 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is a member of the BMW/PSA Prince engine family, known for its direct fuel injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger. Direct injection allows for precise fuel delivery, improving efficiency and power output. The N18 featured variable valve timing (Double VANOS) on both the intake and exhaust camshafts, optimizing engine performance across the rev range. The six-speed automatic transmission, a common Aisin unit used in various BMW and Mini applications, was specifically tuned for the Cooper S to provide smooth shifts and responsive acceleration. Unlike some earlier Mini automatics, this transmission offered a manual shift mode for greater driver control.
Driving Characteristics
The 184 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque delivered by the N18 engine, coupled with the six-speed automatic, provided brisk acceleration. While not as overtly aggressive as the manual transmission versions, the automatic offered a more relaxed driving experience, particularly in urban environments. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy. Compared to the base Cooper’s 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine, the Cooper S Automatic offered a significant performance upgrade. However, it didn’t quite match the raw responsiveness of the six-speed manual Cooper S, which felt lighter and more directly connected to the engine. The automatic did offer a more accessible power delivery for less experienced drivers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cooper S Automatic typically came well-equipped, including standard features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, a multi-function steering wheel, and a basic audio system. Upholstery was generally cloth, though leather options were available. Common optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio systems (Harman Kardon), navigation, and sport seats. The Coupe’s interior design mirrored that of the Hatch, but with a more driver-focused layout and a distinct coupe-specific dashboard trim. The two-seater configuration meant limited rear passenger space, emphasizing the car’s sporty character.
Chassis & Braking
The R58 Coupe shared its chassis and suspension components with the Mini Hatch. It featured independent McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a firm but comfortable ride. The Cooper S Automatic typically came with larger brakes than the base Cooper, utilizing ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard. The Coupe’s slightly wider track compared to the Hatch contributed to improved handling stability. The steering was precise and well-weighted, providing good feedback to the driver.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mini Coupe Cooper S Automatic received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its sporty handling, strong engine performance, and distinctive styling. However, the limited rear passenger space and relatively small trunk were often cited as drawbacks. Compared to the manual transmission Cooper S, the automatic was seen as slightly less engaging to drive, but more convenient for everyday use. Fuel economy was respectable for a performance-oriented vehicle, averaging around 37 mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the turbocharger and fuel injectors.
Legacy
The Mini Coupe, while a relatively short-lived model, remains a popular choice among Mini enthusiasts. The Cooper S Automatic variant, in particular, offers a compelling blend of performance, style, and convenience. The N18 engine, while known for some potential issues like high-pressure fuel pump failures, is generally considered a robust and tunable powerplant. Today, well-maintained examples of the Cooper S Automatic command reasonable prices in the used car market, appealing to buyers seeking a unique and engaging driving experience.
