2019 MINI Cooper vs 2020 Honda Accord

The 2019 MINI Cooper retained the charm that made the original Cooper a sensation, but it had grown in size and sophistication. While it still promised fun with its classic Mini styling, the latest model's design elements, such as oversized headlights and taillights, and a longer front overhang, detracted from its simple elegance. Inside, the iconic pie-plate-size speedometer was replaced by a rectangular infotainment screen, surrounded by mood lighting, and toggle switches remained, now joined by a head-up display. Despite the technological advancements, the 2019 MINI Cooper's individuality was somewhat overshadowed by complexity.

In contrast, the 2020 Honda Accord was one of the most stylish Accords in history, with a sleek fastback design that belied its mainstream family sedan roots. The Sport and Touring trims, with their 19-inch wheels, added significant visual presence, while other trims with 17-inch wheels offered a more practical long-term value. The Accord's interior, especially in the Touring trim, exuded luxury with its Radiant Red paint and Ivory interior, featuring soft-touch materials, leather upholstery, and simulated wood trim. The Accord's cabin was a model of quality and comfort, making it a standout in its class.

The 2019 MINI Cooper John Cooper Works version was the pinnacle of performance for the model, boasting a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 228 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain enabled the car to accelerate to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds with the automatic transmission and 6.1 seconds with the manual. The car's handling was sharp, thanks to its Pirelli Cinturato P7 all-season tires and sport-tuned suspension, though torque steer and occasional braking issues in corners were noted. The John Cooper Works Pro Exhaust Valve added an exhilarating auditory experience, especially in Sport mode.

The 2020 Honda Accord offered a range of powertrains, starting with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 192 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT. For those seeking fuel efficiency, the Accord Hybrid delivered 212 horsepower and averaged 42.6 mpg. The performance-oriented 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, paired with a ten-speed automatic, generated 252 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, making the Accord quick and responsive. The adaptive dampers in the Touring trim provided excellent handling and ride comfort, though the brakes showed some fade during aggressive driving. Overall, the Accord was both fun to drive and a practical daily driver.

The 2019 MINI Cooper, even in its 2-door hardtop form, offered surprising utility. 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. When used as a 2-seater, the Cooper provided a spacious 34-cubic-foot trunk. The front seats were adjustable and supportive, but the controls prioritized style over function, with chrome toggle switches and unconventional door handles.

The 2020 Honda Accord, essentially a full-size car, excelled in interior space and comfort. The 12-way power driver's seat in the Touring trim offered excellent support and comfort, though the front passenger seat lacked height adjustment. The rear seat was exceptionally comfortable, with wide doors for easy access, ample thigh support, and available heated outboard positions. The trunk offered an impressive 16.7 cubic feet of space, ideal for long trips. The Accord's cabin was well-designed, with clear instrumentation, ample storage, and ergonomic controls, making it a pleasant place to spend time.

The 2019 MINI Cooper's top-level infotainment system, based on BMW iDrive technology, featured an 8.8-inch display, 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, and the lack of Android Auto was a drawback. The Harman Kardon audio system and wireless Apple CarPlay were highlights, and the Parking Assistant was useful for protecting the car's wheels.

The 2020 Honda Accord's 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system was one of the best in its class, with volume and tuning knobs, main menu shortcut buttons, and sensible steering wheel controls. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and text-messaging support. The Touring trim added HondaLink subscription services, a Wi-Fi hotspot, navigation, and wireless charging. The head-up display was clear even with polarized sunglasses, and the reversing camera with multiple viewing angles enhanced visibility.

The 2019 MINI Cooper offered a limited set of safety systems, including eight airbags, a reversing camera, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, automatic high-beam headlights, and a speed-limit information system. Adaptive cruise control was available, but the lack of blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist was notable. The Cooper received a 4-star overall rating from the NHTSA and was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS in 2018.

The 2020 Honda Accord was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS and received five stars in every NHTSA assessment. Honda Sensing, standard on all trims, included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-centering assist, adaptive cruise control, and traffic sign recognition. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert was available on higher trims. While Honda Sensing was comprehensive, some systems could use refinement, such as smoother adaptive cruise control and more accurate forward collision warning.