2019 MINI Cooper vs 2019 Volvo S60

The 2019 MINI Cooper retained the charm and individuality that made its predecessors a sensation. However, it had grown in size and sophistication, losing some of the simple elegance of earlier models. The larger headlights and taillights, extended front overhang, and increased visual weight over the front wheels detracted from its classic appeal. Inside, the iconic pie-plate-size speedometer was replaced by a rectangular infotainment screen, surrounded by mood lighting. While the toggle switches and motorcycle-style gauges remained, the added technology introduced complexity, making the car less straightforward than before.

In contrast, the 2019 Volvo S60 transformed Volvo's image from quirky to sexy. The S60 scaled down the flagship S90's design to fit a small luxury platform, resulting in a more athletic stance. The straight lines and precise angles were complemented by a rear fender and C-pillar that gave it a sporty look. The S60's design was so compelling that it invited closer inspection, balancing form and function effectively. The interior featured sensible steering-wheel-mounted controls and ample storage space, though some controls, like the starter and drive-mode selector, were awkwardly placed.

The 2019 MINI Cooper John Cooper Works (JCW) was the pinnacle of performance for the MINI lineup. It featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 228 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 236 pound-feet of torque at 1,250 rpm. With a base curb weight of 2,845 pounds, it could accelerate to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds with the optional 6-speed automatic transmission, or 6.1 seconds with the 6-speed manual. The JCW Pro Exhaust Valve added a thrilling auditory experience, especially in Sport mode. However, the car's Pirelli Cinturato P7 all-season tires squealed in sharp corners, and torque steer was an issue on uneven pavement. The bigger brakes were generally effective but occasionally faltered during aggressive driving.

The 2019 Volvo S60 offered three powertrain options: T5, T6, and T8. The T5 featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, sent to front-wheel drive. The T6, which we drove, had a twin-charged 2.0-liter engine producing 316 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, sent to all-wheel drive. The T8 was a plug-in hybrid with a combined output of 400 horsepower and 495 pound-feet of torque. The T6 provided immediate throttle and transmission responses, making it feel like a rear-wheel-drive sedan despite its front-wheel-drive layout. The T6's fuel economy was estimated at 21 mpg city, 32 highway, and 25 combined, though our test yielded 23.2 mpg.

The 2019 MINI Cooper, even in its 2-door hardtop form, was surprisingly practical. The back seat could accommodate passengers if the front seats were adjusted, and the 8.7-cubic-foot trunk could hold a full-size suitcase and a backpack. For optimal use, the Cooper was best as a 2-seater with a 34-cubic-foot trunk. The front seats offered significant adjustment and support, making it comfortable for tall individuals. However, the controls prioritized style over function, with chrome toggle switches and unconventional door release handles.

The 2019 Volvo S60's interior balanced form and function, though some controls were awkwardly placed. The starter and drive-mode selector were difficult to reach, but the conventional shifter was a welcome choice. The backseat offered decent space compared to competitors, and the 11.6 cubic feet of cargo space was average for the class. The S60's interior design choices sometimes sacrificed ease of use for aesthetic appeal.

The 2019 MINI Cooper's top-level infotainment system, based on BMW iDrive technology, featured an 8.8-inch display screen, navigation, and MINI Connected Services. It offered voice control, a touchscreen, and physical controls, though the latter were difficult to access. The system sometimes behaved unpredictably, changing screens without input. Wireless charging and Apple CarPlay were available, but Android Auto was not. The Harman Kardon audio system provided impressive sound quality, and the Parking Assistant helped with parallel parking, though it seemed unnecessary given the car's size.

The 2019 Volvo S60 featured the Sensus touchscreen infotainment system, which took a tablet-like approach to menu navigation. While visually appealing, it required multiple touches to perform simple tasks like adjusting the climate control. The system occasionally lagged or froze, which could be frustrating. However, it included a Volume dial, Play/Pause button, and a Home button for easier navigation. The S60's infotainment system had a steep learning curve but offered a comprehensive set of features.

The 2019 MINI Cooper offered a limited set of safety systems, including eight airbags, a reversing camera, and an Active Driving Assistant with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, automatic high-beam headlights, and a speed-limit information system. Adaptive cruise control was available, but the Cooper lacked blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and lane-centering assist. The IIHS rated it as a Top Safety Pick in 2018, but it lost that rating in 2019. The federal government gave it a 4-star overall rating, with a 3-star rating for rear seat occupant protection in a side-impact collision.

The 2019 Volvo S60 came standard with front- and side-impact airbags, a reversing camera, and a tire-pressure-monitoring system. It also included driver-assistance systems like forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and traffic-sign recognition. The Advance Package added a head-up display, headlight washers, a 360-degree camera, and active bending headlights. Pilot Assist, a semi-autonomous driving system, was also part of the package, enhancing the S60's safety features.