2019 MINI Cooper vs 2020 Mazda MAZDA3

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 previous elegance. Inside, the iconic pie-plate-size speedometer was replaced by a rectangular infotainment screen, surrounded by mood lighting. The toggle switches and motorcycle-style gauges remained, but the added technology introduced complexity that some found unnecessary.

In contrast, the 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 offered a choice between sedan and hatchback body styles, with the hatchback standing out for its unique curves and silhouette. The sedan, aimed at competing with upmarket models, featured a sculpted side profile and a blacked-out mesh front grille. Inside, the Mazda3 embraced simplicity and minimalism, with a cockpit-style feel and high-quality materials. The front seats were supportive and adjustable, while the rear seats, though tight on legroom, were comfortable. The trunk space was modest, but the overall design exuded a premium feel.

The 2019 MINI Cooper John Cooper Works (JCW) version was the pinnacle of performance for the model. 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. This power enabled the car to accelerate from 0 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 brakes, while generally effective, sometimes faltered during aggressive driving, reducing driver confidence.

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3, on the other hand, featured a 2.5-liter SkyActiv four-cylinder engine with 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided a predictable and smooth driving experience, though it lacked the immediate punch of a turbocharged motor. The Mazda3's handling was precise, with minimal body roll, but the torsion beam rear suspension, a cost-cutting measure, resulted in a less refined ride over rough roads. The manual transmission was available only in specific configurations, making it less accessible to enthusiasts. The automatic transmission was more common and provided a satisfactory driving experience.

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. However, the Cooper was best used as a 2-seater with a spacious 34-cubic-foot trunk. The front seats were adjustable and supportive, with significant side bolsters and manual thigh-support extensions. The interior design prioritized style over function, with chrome toggle switches and unconventional controls that sometimes sacrificed practicality.

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 sedan measured 183.5 inches in length with a 107.3-inch wheelbase, while the hatchback was more compact at 175.6 inches. Despite its size, the Mazda3 provided ample room for the driver and front passenger, with supportive seats and high-quality materials. The rear seats were tight on legroom, but the soft front seatbacks mitigated discomfort. The sedan's trunk offered 13.2 cubic feet of cargo space, and the hatchback provided 20.1 cubic feet, both on the smaller side for the segment. The large transmission hump in the rear middle seat was a drawback, but the overall interior design was clean and premium.

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 displays 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 head-up display showed information on a plastic panel. The Parking Assistant was useful for protecting the car's vulnerable wheel spokes.

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3's infotainment system featured an 8.8-inch display recessed into the dashboard, avoiding the tacked-on look. Mazda eliminated touch functionality, opting for a rotary dial controller and dedicated buttons between the front seats. This design required some adjustment but was ultimately user-friendly. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and Sirius XM satellite radio were included. The new infotainment software was faster and featured sharp graphics. The head-up display reflected off the windshield, enhancing the premium feel.

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 with the Driver Assistance Package. However, the Cooper lacked blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and lane-centering assist. The IIHS rated it a Top Safety Pick in 2018, but it lost that rating in 2019. The NHTSA gave it a 4-star overall rating, with a 3-star rating for rear seat occupant protection in a side-impact collision.

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 was a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, receiving Good ratings in all crash tests and for the Premium Package's LED headlights. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating, with top marks in all crash tests. Mazda offered a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and dynamic brake support. These features were standard, reflecting Mazda's commitment to safety.