The Mini Hatch (F55) 5-door Cooper 1.5 Automatic, produced from March 2014 to 2018, represents a significant iteration in the modern Mini lineup. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the F55 5-door family, it bridged the gap between the entry-level One models and the performance-oriented Cooper S variants. This particular configuration – the 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission – aimed to deliver a balance of fuel efficiency, usability, and the signature Mini driving experience to a broader audience, particularly in markets where automatic transmissions are preferred. It was built on the UKL1 platform, shared with other BMW Group vehicles, marking a shift towards a more modular and efficient construction process.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mini |
| Model | Hatch |
| Generation | Hatch (F55) 5-door |
| Type (Engine) | Cooper 1.5 (136 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | March, 2014 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.0 – 6.1 l/100 km (39.2 – 38.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1 – 4.2 l/100 km (57.4 – 56 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.8 – 4.9 l/100 km (49 – 48 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 111 – 114 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 207 km/h (128.62 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.6 kg/Hp, 115.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 195.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 4500-6000 rpm |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1250-4000 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 1250-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B38A15A |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94.6 mm (3.72 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1175 kg (2590.43 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Max load | 525 kg (1157.43 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 278 l (9.82 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 941 l (33.23 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 3982 mm (156.77 in.) |
| Width | 1727 mm (67.99 in.) |
| Height | 1425 mm (56.1 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2567 mm (101.06 in.) |
| Front track | 1501 mm (59.09 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1501 mm (59.09 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 146 mm (5.75 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| 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 | 175/65 R15 84H |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the F55 Cooper 1.5 Automatic lies the BMW B38A15A engine, a 1.5-liter inline three-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is a member of BMW’s modular engine family, characterized by its compact size and advanced technologies. It utilizes direct fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber for improved efficiency and power. A single twin-scroll turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides forced induction, boosting power output and mitigating turbo lag. The engine also features variable valve timing (VANOS) and variable valve lift, optimizing engine performance across the rev range. The six-speed automatic transmission, a common Aisin unit used across various BMW and Mini models, is known for its smooth shifts and responsiveness. It’s programmed for comfort and efficiency, with a focus on seamless gear changes rather than aggressive downshifts.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5-liter Cooper Automatic delivers a surprisingly engaging driving experience, despite its relatively modest horsepower. With 136 hp and 230 Nm (169.64 lb-ft) of torque, acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 7.7 seconds. While not blistering, the readily available torque from 1250 rpm provides ample power for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The automatic transmission, while prioritizing smoothness, can feel slightly less responsive than the available manual gearbox. Gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy, meaning the engine can sometimes feel strained during hard acceleration. However, the light weight of the F55 5-door (around 2590 lbs) helps to offset the engine’s limitations, contributing to a nimble and enjoyable driving feel. The steering, a hallmark of the Mini brand, remains precise and communicative.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cooper 1.5 Automatic typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Safety features included ABS, stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras were plentiful, allowing buyers to personalize their Mini. Popular options included a larger touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, parking sensors, and various exterior styling packages. Interior upholstery options ranged from basic cloth to premium leather. Trim levels within the Cooper range often differentiated themselves through cosmetic enhancements, such as different wheel designs and interior trim materials.
Chassis & Braking
The F55 5-door Cooper utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance of ride comfort and handling precision. The suspension is tuned to be slightly firmer than some competitors, reflecting the Mini’s sporty character. Brakes consist of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, providing enhanced braking performance in emergency situations. The chassis is relatively lightweight, contributing to the car’s agility. Stabilizer bars are fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mini Cooper 1.5 Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, fun-to-drive character, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered, particularly when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to the more powerful Cooper S models, the 1.5 offered a more affordable entry point into the Mini brand, but at the expense of outright performance. Against competitors like the Volkswagen Polo or Audi A1, the Mini offered a more premium feel and a more engaging driving experience, but often at a higher price point. Fuel economy figures of around 48 US mpg combined were competitive for the segment.
Legacy
The B38 engine family, including the 1.5-liter variant found in the F55 Cooper, has proven to be relatively reliable. Common issues are typically minor, such as oil leaks or occasional turbocharger problems. The automatic transmission is also generally durable, provided it receives regular fluid changes. On the used car market, the F55 Cooper 1.5 Automatic remains a popular choice, particularly for buyers seeking a stylish and economical city car. Its combination of practicality, fuel efficiency, and the iconic Mini brand appeal ensures continued demand. However, potential buyers should be aware of the importance of maintaining a full service history and inspecting the car thoroughly for any signs of wear and tear.
