The Mini Hatch (F55) 5-door One First 1.2, produced from July 2014 to November 2017, represented the entry point into the third generation of the iconic Mini hatchback. Positioned within the F55 5-door range, this variant offered a more accessible price point and focused on fuel efficiency, appealing to urban drivers and those new to the Mini brand. It was a key model in expanding the Mini lineup, offering the practicality of five doors alongside the brand’s signature styling and handling characteristics. The “One First” designation indicated a specific trim level, often featuring a slightly reduced equipment list compared to higher-spec One models, further contributing to its affordability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mini |
| Model | Hatch |
| Generation | Hatch (F55) 5-door |
| Type (Engine) | One First 1.2 (75 Hp) |
| Start of production | July, 2014 |
| End of production | November, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 121 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 172 km/h (106.88 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.3 kg/Hp, 65.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.7 kg/Nm, 130.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 75 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 62.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 150 Nm @ 1400 rpm (110.63 lb.-ft. @ 1400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B38A12A |
| Engine displacement | 1198 cm3 (73.11 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 78 mm (3.07 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83.6 mm (3.29 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| 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 | 4.9 l (5.18 US qt | 4.31 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1150 kg (2535.32 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1680 kg (3703.77 lbs.) |
| Max load | 530 kg (1168.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 278 l (9.82 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 | 11.02 m (36.15 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | 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 | 175/65 R15 84H |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the One First is the BMW-sourced B38A12A 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbocharged engine. This engine is a key component of BMW’s modular engine family, known for its efficiency and surprisingly lively performance despite its small displacement. It utilizes direct fuel injection and a single twin-scroll turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver 75 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 150 Nm (110.63 lb-ft) of torque from as low as 1400 rpm. The engine’s aluminum block and head contribute to its relatively lightweight design. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. The standard transmission for this variant was a six-speed manual gearbox, optimized for fuel economy and smooth shifts. While an automatic transmission was available as an option, it impacted fuel economy and acceleration slightly.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2-liter engine, paired with the manual transmission, provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 12.7 seconds, and the top speed was 172 km/h (106.88 mph). The engine’s turbocharger provided a noticeable boost in power, but the overall driving experience was geared towards efficiency and ease of use rather than outright speed. The six-speed gearbox was well-matched to the engine’s powerband, allowing drivers to keep the engine in its optimal torque range. Compared to the more powerful One models or the diesel-powered variants, the One First felt less responsive, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. However, its lighter weight and nimble handling still retained the characteristic Mini driving feel.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The “One First” trim level was designed to be an entry-level offering, and as such, it featured a more basic specification than other variants. Standard equipment typically included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system. Safety features such as ABS, airbags, and stability control were also standard. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a simplified design. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a more advanced infotainment system, parking sensors, and a panoramic sunroof. The One First trim often served as a blank canvas for buyers who wanted to customize their Mini with a range of optional extras.
Chassis & Braking
The F55 5-door One First utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable yet engaging ride. The suspension was tuned to prioritize handling and stability, typical of the Mini brand. Brakes consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The car’s relatively light weight contributed to its nimble handling and efficient braking performance. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mini Hatch (F55) 5-door One First was generally well-received by critics as an affordable and practical entry point into the Mini range. Its fuel economy of around 45.2 US mpg combined was a significant selling point, particularly in urban environments. Compared to the more powerful One models, the One First offered a lower purchase price but sacrificed some performance. The diesel-powered Mini One D offered even better fuel economy but came with a higher initial cost. Reliability was generally good, with the BMW-sourced engine proving to be durable and dependable. However, some owners reported minor issues with the infotainment system and electrical components.
Legacy
The Mini Hatch (F55) 5-door One First 1.2 remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for buyers seeking an affordable and stylish city car. The B38 engine has proven to be relatively reliable, although regular maintenance is essential. The availability of spare parts is good, and the car’s simple mechanical design makes it relatively easy to repair. The One First’s enduring appeal lies in its combination of iconic Mini styling, practical five-door layout, and fuel-efficient engine. It represents a compelling option for those looking for a fun-to-drive and economical hatchback.
