The Mini Hatch (R56) Cooper SD 2.0 Automatic, produced between 2011 and 2013, represented a diesel-powered offering within the second generation Mini Hatchback lineup (R56). Positioned as a mid-range trim, it aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency and respectable performance, appealing to buyers seeking a premium small car experience with lower running costs. This variant utilized a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, distinguishing itself from the petrol-powered Cooper models and the more performance-oriented John Cooper Works variants. It was primarily sold in the European market, where diesel engines held a significant share of the small car segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mini |
| Model | Hatch |
| Generation | Hatch (R56) |
| Type (Engine) | Cooper SD 2.0 (143 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 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) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 139 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8 sec (Calculated) |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.2 kg/Hp, 122.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm, 260.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 143 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 305 Nm @ 1750-2700 rpm (224.96 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | N47C20A |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1170 kg (2579.41 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1620 kg (3571.49 lbs.) |
| Max load | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 160 l (5.65 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 680 l (24.01 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 3729 mm (146.81 in.) |
| Width | 1683 mm (66.26 in.) |
| Height | 1407 mm (55.39 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2467 mm (97.13 in.) |
| Front track | 1459 mm (57.44 in.) |
| Rear track | 1467 mm (57.76 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 139 mm (5.47 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 195/55 R16 87V |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 LM |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Cooper SD 2.0 Automatic was powered by the BMW N47C20A engine, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine was a cornerstone of BMW and Mini’s diesel offerings during the early 2010s. It featured common rail direct injection, a turbocharger with an intercooler, and four valves per cylinder. The N47 engine family was known for its efficiency and relatively smooth operation for a diesel. The specific N47C20A variant produced 143 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 305 Nm (224.96 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2700 rpm. The six-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Aisin, was chosen for its smooth shifting and efficiency. While not a sports-oriented gearbox, it was well-suited to the engine’s torque characteristics and provided comfortable everyday driving.
Driving Characteristics
The Cooper SD 2.0 Automatic offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to the petrol-powered Cooper or the more powerful Cooper S. The diesel engine’s abundant low-end torque meant that brisk acceleration was readily available from low speeds, making it well-suited for urban driving and overtaking. However, it lacked the high-revving enthusiasm of the petrol engines. The automatic transmission, while smooth, could feel somewhat hesitant during quick downshifts. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 8 seconds, and top speed was 127.38 mph. Compared to a manual transmission Cooper SD, the automatic version typically exhibited slightly slower acceleration due to transmission losses. The focus was more on relaxed cruising and fuel economy than outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cooper SD 2.0 Automatic typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a multi-function steering wheel, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was usually cloth, although leather options were available. Common optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio systems (often from Harman Kardon), navigation systems, and parking sensors. Trim levels could vary slightly depending on the market, but generally, the Cooper SD Automatic sat in the middle of the range, offering more features than the base Cooper but fewer than the Cooper S or John Cooper Works models.
Chassis & Braking
The R56 Mini Hatch featured a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a relatively firm but controlled ride. The Cooper SD 2.0 Automatic, due to its slightly higher weight compared to the petrol versions, often had slightly stiffer spring rates to maintain handling balance. Braking was handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The steering was a rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive handling. The standard tire size was 195/55 R16, offering a good balance of grip and comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Cooper SD 2.0 Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics, particularly for its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride. It was praised as a practical and economical choice for urban commuters and those seeking a premium small car experience. Compared to the petrol Cooper, the SD offered significantly better fuel economy, although it came at the cost of some performance. Against other diesel-powered small cars, the Mini Cooper SD stood out for its stylish design and premium interior. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and occasional turbocharger problems.
Legacy
The Mini Hatch (R56) Cooper SD 2.0 Automatic remains a popular choice in the used car market. Its combination of fuel efficiency, practicality, and the Mini brand’s iconic styling continues to appeal to buyers. The N47 engine, while generally reliable, requires regular maintenance, particularly regarding the timing chain and DPF. Well-maintained examples can provide years of reliable service, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues associated with this engine. The R56 generation Mini, including the Cooper SD, helped establish the modern Mini as a desirable and well-regarded small car, paving the way for subsequent generations.
