The Mini Hatch (F55) 5-door One 1.5 Steptronic, produced from 2018 onwards, represents an entry point into the third generation of the iconic British hatchback. This variant, part of the F55 facelift series, offered a more practical five-door configuration alongside the traditional three-door model. Positioned as the base trim level, the One 1.5 Steptronic aimed to provide accessible Mini ownership with a focus on fuel efficiency and ease of driving, utilizing a smaller displacement engine and an automatic transmission. It was designed to appeal to buyers prioritizing practicality and lower running costs over outright performance, particularly in European markets where smaller, fuel-efficient cars are highly valued.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mini |
| Model | Hatch |
| Generation | Hatch (F55, facelift 2018) 5-door |
| Type (Engine) | One 1.5 (102 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.8-5.9 l/100 km (40.6 – 39.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.3-4.5 l/100 km (54.7 – 52.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.8-5.0 l/100 km (49 – 47 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 110-115 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10 sec |
| Maximum speed | 192 km/h (119.3 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 102 Hp @ 3900-6500 rpm |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 1350-3600 rpm (140.14 lb.-ft. @ 1350-3600 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 | 1195 kg (2634.52 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1705 kg (3758.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 510 kg (1124.36 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) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| 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.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.0 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission Steptronic |
| 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 |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 175/65 R15 84H |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the One 1.5 Steptronic is the BMW-sourced B38A15A 1.5-liter inline three-cylinder turbocharged engine. This engine is part of BMW’s modular engine family, known for its compact size and efficiency. It utilizes direct fuel injection and a single twin-scroll turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver 102 horsepower and 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque. The engine’s aluminum block and head contribute to its relatively lightweight design. The Steptronic transmission is a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), offering quick and smooth gear changes. This transmission is known for its efficiency and responsiveness, contributing to the car’s overall fuel economy. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5-liter engine, paired with the 7-speed Steptronic transmission, provides adequate performance for urban and highway driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 10 seconds, and the top speed is 119.3 mph. While not particularly sporty, the powertrain delivers a smooth and refined driving experience. The Steptronic transmission is well-programmed, offering seamless shifts and contributing to a comfortable ride. Compared to the more powerful Cooper models, the One 1.5 feels less eager to accelerate, but its lighter weight and efficient engine make it more economical. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, with taller gearing in higher gears to reduce engine speed at cruising speeds.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The One 1.5 Steptronic typically came equipped with standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, a basic infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and alloy wheels. Safety features included ABS, stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included a larger touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, parking sensors, and a panoramic sunroof. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. The dashboard layout was characteristic of the F55 Mini, featuring a centrally mounted digital display and a distinctive circular control panel.
Chassis & Braking
The F55 Mini Hatch utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The One 1.5 variant typically featured smaller wheels and tires (175/65 R15) compared to higher-spec models. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The suspension setup was tuned for comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over aggressive handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mini One 1.5 Steptronic was generally well-received by critics as an affordable and practical entry point into the Mini brand. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and ease of driving. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of the more powerful Cooper models. Compared to other small hatchbacks in the European market, the Mini One 1.5 offered a more premium interior and a more engaging driving experience, but at a higher price point. Its fuel economy was competitive with other similarly sized cars, and its reliability was generally considered good.
Legacy
The B38 engine family has proven to be relatively reliable, with few major issues reported. The 7-speed Steptronic transmission is also known for its durability. In the used car market, the One 1.5 Steptronic represents a relatively affordable option for buyers seeking a stylish and well-equipped small hatchback. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, and parts availability is good. While not a performance car, the One 1.5 offers a practical and enjoyable driving experience, making it a popular choice for urban commuters and first-time car buyers.
