The Mini Hatch (F65) 5-door Cooper C 1.5 (156 Hp) Steptronic represents the latest iteration of Mini’s iconic small car, launched in June 2024. This variant sits within the F65 generation of the 5-door Hatch, positioned as a mid-range offering blending performance and efficiency. It builds upon the established Mini formula of stylish design, nimble handling, and a premium interior, while incorporating modern technology and powertrain advancements. The Cooper C 1.5 utilizes a turbocharged three-cylinder engine paired with a seven-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, targeting drivers seeking a balance between spirited driving and everyday usability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mini |
| Model | Hatch |
| Generation | Hatch (F65) 5-door |
| Type (Engine) | Cooper C 1.5 (156 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | June, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 149 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 225 km/h (139.81 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.5 kg/Hp, 118.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 174.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 156 Hp @ 4900-6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 104.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1500-4600 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B38A15 |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System, Particulate filter |
| Kerb Weight | 1320 kg (2910.1 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1840 kg (4056.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 520 kg (1146.4 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 275 l (9.71 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 925 l (32.67 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 44 l (11.62 US gal | 9.68 UK gal) |
| Length | 4036 mm (158.9 in.) |
| Width | 1744 mm (68.66 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1970 mm (77.56 in.) |
| Height | 1464 mm (57.64 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2567 mm (101.06 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission Steptronic |
| 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; 195/50 R17; 205/45 R17; 215/45 R17; 215/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Cooper C 1.5 Steptronic lies the BMW Group’s B38A15 engine, a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine. This engine is a key component of the UKL2 platform, shared with several BMW and Mini models. The B38 utilizes direct fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber for improved efficiency and power. A single twin-scroll turbocharger with an intercooler provides forced induction, boosting output to 156 horsepower and 230 Nm (169.64 lb.-ft.) of torque. The engine also incorporates start-stop technology and a particulate filter to reduce emissions, meeting Euro 6e standards. The seven-speed Steptronic automatic transmission is a torque-converter type, known for its smooth shifts and responsiveness. It features adaptive shift programs that adjust to the driver’s style and road conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The Cooper C 1.5 Steptronic offers a compelling driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as some of the higher-performance Mini variants, it provides ample power for everyday driving and spirited excursions. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 7.6 seconds, and the car reaches a top speed of 139.81 mph. The automatic transmission contributes to a relaxed driving experience, particularly in urban environments. The gear ratios are well-chosen, providing good acceleration in lower gears and comfortable cruising at highway speeds. Compared to a manual transmission version, the Steptronic offers convenience but may slightly diminish driver engagement. Against the more powerful Cooper S models, the C variant offers a more economical option, sacrificing some outright performance for improved fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cooper C 1.5 Steptronic comes standard with a comprehensive array of features. Interior appointments typically include cloth upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a modern dashboard layout with a central infotainment screen. Standard equipment often includes automatic climate control, a rearview camera, and various driver-assistance systems. Optional extras can include premium upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a head-up display, and advanced driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. The trim level generally falls in the mid-range of the 5-door Hatch lineup, offering a step up in performance and features compared to the base Cooper models.
Chassis & Braking
The F65 Mini Hatch utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance of ride comfort and handling agility. The Cooper C 1.5 is equipped with ventilated front disc brakes and solid rear disc brakes, providing adequate stopping power for its weight and performance. Electric power steering offers precise and responsive steering feel. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning is generally geared towards a comfortable ride, but it still allows for a reasonably sporty driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mini Hatch (F65) 5-door Cooper C 1.5 Steptronic has been generally well-received by automotive critics. Reviewers praise its stylish design, comfortable interior, and engaging driving dynamics. The fuel economy of 35.6 US mpg is considered competitive for its class. Compared to other trims in the lineup, the Cooper C offers a sweet spot between performance and affordability. While the Cooper S models provide more exhilarating performance, they come at a higher price point. The Cooper C also offers better fuel economy than the more powerful variants. Reliability reports are still emerging for the latest F65 generation, but the B38 engine has proven to be generally reliable in other BMW and Mini applications.
Legacy
The B38 engine and Steptronic transmission combination in the Cooper C 1.5 Steptronic represents a significant step forward in Mini’s powertrain technology. The engine’s combination of turbocharging, direct injection, and efficient design delivers a compelling blend of performance and fuel economy. As the F65 generation matures, the Cooper C 1.5 is expected to hold its value well in the used car market, appealing to buyers seeking a stylish, practical, and enjoyable small car. The long-term reliability of this powertrain is anticipated to be good, based on the proven track record of the B38 engine and Steptronic transmission in other applications.
