2020 Dodge Charger vs 2021 MINI Cooper

Dodge brought back the Charger name in 2006 with a modern muscle car design. The 2011 model retained the menacing headlights and gaping grille, but a significant facelift in 2015 introduced a thin inlet grille and more aggressive headlights. The interior combined retro elements with modern technology, featuring large vintage-looking bezels housing digital displays. The rear-wheel-drive platform required a raised transmission tunnel, creating a cockpit-like feel. Trim levels for the 2020 Charger included SXT, GT, R/T, and Hellcat, each offering various features and performance upgrades.

The 2021 MINI Cooper stood out with its iconic rounded shape, compact dimensions, and a wide range of color choices. Customization options included exterior graphics and hidden Easter eggs like Union Jack taillights. Inside, the MINI continued its unique design language with circular shapes and a funky infotainment touchscreen. While the cabin was high quality, space was limited, especially in the back seats, which were more suitable for cargo than passengers.

The 2020 Dodge Charger offered multiple powertrain options. The SXT and GT trims featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine, producing 292 and 300 horsepower, respectively. Both engines were paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, with AWD available for these trims. The R/T trim came with a 5.7-liter Hemi V8, delivering 370 hp and 395 lb-ft of torque, along with an upgraded performance suspension and active exhaust. The R/T Scat Pack boasted a 6.4-liter Hemi V8, generating 485 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque, and included Brembo brakes and launch assist. The top-tier Hellcat featured a supercharged 6.2-liter V8, producing 707 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque. The Charger’s Performance Pages allowed drivers to monitor and customize various performance aspects, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2021 MINI Cooper offered four powertrain options. The base model had a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with 134 horsepower. The Cooper S featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 189 hp, while the John Cooper Works (JCW) had a 228-hp turbo-four. The JCW GP model topped the range with a 301-hp turbo-four. All models were front-wheel drive, with the Cooper and Cooper S offering a six-speed manual or a seven-speed automatic transmission. The JCW GP came with an eight-speed automatic. The MINI’s small size made it feel agile and energetic, though the ride could be stiff and twitchy at higher speeds. Fuel economy varied, with the most efficient model being the Convertible, achieving 28/37/31 mpg city/highway/combined.

The 2020 Dodge Charger excelled in interior space, offering ample legroom in the rear seats, which was often lacking in other performance sedans. The front bucket seats were well-bolstered, providing plenty of head- and legroom. The Charger also featured practical storage solutions, including door trays, cup holders, and a spacious center console. The trunk was notably large, with 16.5 cubic feet of space, and the 60/40 split-fold rear bench allowed for additional storage.

The 2021 MINI Cooper’s interior was more suited for cargo than passengers, especially in the rear seats. The front seats were comfortable, but taller drivers might struggle with knee placement due to the dash design. Interior storage was limited, with a small center console and door pockets. The Cooper Hatchback offered decent cargo space, and the back seats could be folded down for more storage. Convertible models had a small cargo hold under the folding top compartment, with minimal usable space in the back.

The 2020 Dodge Charger came standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while higher trims featured an 8.4-inch screen. Both sizes used the Uconnect system, known for its simplicity and ease of use. Standard features included Bluetooth, USB connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system’s logical menu layout and always-present dock icons made navigation straightforward. The digital display in the instrument panel provided easy access to various functions and turn-by-turn navigation.

The 2021 MINI Cooper’s base screen was a 6.5-inch unit, with an optional 8.8-inch screen offering additional features like SiriusXM satellite radio and Apple CarPlay. Optional upgrades included a Harman Kardon sound system, automatic climate controls, and LED headlights. MINI’s use of physical controls improved the technology experience, but the lack of Android Auto was a drawback. The infotainment system, borrowed from BMW, included a physical iDrive controller, though its placement made it difficult to use.

The 2020 Dodge Charger included standard safety features like front- and side-impact airbags, traction control, and rear parking sensors. Optional features included forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The Charger’s crash prevention technology earned a Superior rating from the IIHS, though many features were optional rather than standard.

The 2021 MINI Cooper did not receive a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS. It scored well in crash tests but had mixed ratings for headlights and LATCH system ease of use. The NHTSA had not rated the 2021 model. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and rear parking sensors. Optional features included front parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning.