The 2.0-liter Mini JCW B48A20B turbo engine has been assembled at the company’s factories since 2014 and is installed on many third-generation Mini models in a charged John Cooper Works version. There are two options for boosting this unit: the usual 231 hp version and the GP version with 306 hp.
B38/B48-series family: B38A12A, B38A15A, B48A20A, B48A20B.
Specifications
| Production years | since 2014 |
| Displacement, cc | 1998 |
| Fuel system | direct injection |
| Power output, hp | 231 306 (GP version) |
| Torque output, Nm | 320 – 350 450 (GP version) |
| Cylinder block | aluminum R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 82 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 94.6 |
| Compression ratio | 10.2 9.5 (GP version) |
| Features | Valvetronic |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | on both shafts |
| Turbocharging | MHI TD04LR6W |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 5.0 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 6 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Mini John Cooper Works 2016) — city — highway — combined |
9.1 5.2 6.7 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~230 000 |
| Weight, kg | 143 |
The engine was installed on:
- Mini Cabrio 3 (F57) since 2016;
- Mini Clubman 2 (F54) since 2016;
- Mini Countryman 2 (F60) since 2017;
- Mini Hatch 3 (F56) since 2015.
Disadvantages of the Mini B48A20B engine
- In 2017, the timing belt design was modernized and now the chain does not quickly stretch;
- Often there are floating engine speeds due to a malfunction of the tank vent valve;
- Closer to 100,000 km, valve stem seals often tan and oil burns appear;
- At high mileage, failures occur in the phase regulators or the Valvetronic system.
Frequently asked questions about the Mini B48A20B
How much power does the Mini B48A20B make?
Power output of the Mini B48A20B, hp: 231; 306 (GP version). Torque, Nm: 320 - 350; 450 (GP version).
How much oil does the Mini B48A20B take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 5.0 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Mini B48A20B have a timing belt or chain?
The Mini B48A20B uses a timing chain.
Is the Mini B48A20B turbocharged?
Yes, the Mini B48A20B is turbocharged (MHI TD04LR6W).
Does the Mini B48A20B need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Mini B48A20B has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Mini B48A20B last?
The typical lifespan of the Mini B48A20B is ~230 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Mini B48A20B?
Mini John Cooper Works 2016: city 9.1, highway 5.2, combined 6.7 L/100 km.
What cars was the Mini B48A20B installed on?
Mini Cabrio 3 (F57) since 2016; Mini Clubman 2 (F54) since 2016; Mini Countryman 2 (F60) since 2017; Mini Hatch 3 (F56) since 2015.
What are the common problems of the Mini B48A20B?
In 2017, the timing belt design was modernized and now the chain does not quickly stretch. Often there are floating engine speeds due to a malfunction of the tank vent valve. All known problems.
