2020 Kia Forte vs 2021 MINI Cooper

The 2020 Kia Forte GT, new for the year, featured a turbocharged engine, dual-clutch transmission (DCT), sport-tuned suspension, active exhaust, larger front brakes, and 18-inch wheels. Its styling modifications, including revised bumpers, a black lip spoiler, and dual exhaust outlets, gave it a subtle yet sporty appearance. Inside, the Forte GT boasted red seat piping, interior stitching, a flat-bottom steering wheel with paddle shifters, and gloss black trim with polished metallic accents, creating a modern and substantial look. The transmission shifter felt solid, enhancing the sense of quality.

The 2021 MINI Cooper, with its iconic rounded shape and variety of color choices, stood out in the subcompact car space. Customization options for the exterior and top, along with unique graphics like the Union Jack flag, added to its charm. Inside, the MINI continued its unique design language with circular shapes, a funky infotainment touchscreen, and circular air vents. While the cabin was high quality, it lacked space, making the rear seats more suitable for cargo than passengers.

The 2020 Kia Forte GT was equipped with a turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 201 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 195 pound-feet of torque between 1,500 rpm and 4,500 rpm. This was a significant upgrade from the 147-hp 2.0-liter engine in other Forte models. The 7-speed DCT delivered power to the front wheels and was well-behaved, offering a firm and connected ride quality. The sport-tuned suspension, active exhaust system, and larger front brakes enhanced its performance, making it a gratifying car to drive. Driving modes included Normal, Sport, and Smart, with the latter adjusting based on driving behavior. The Forte GT excelled in handling, especially on curvy roads, though it exhibited some nose-heavy weight bias and brake fade during aggressive driving.

The 2021 MINI Cooper offered four powertrain options: a 134-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder for the base model, a 189-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder for the Cooper S, a 228-hp turbo-four for the John Cooper Works (JCW), and a 301-hp turbo-four for the John Cooper Works GP. All models were front-wheel drive, with a six-speed manual standard for the Cooper and Cooper S, and a seven-speed automatic available. The JCW GP featured an eight-speed automatic. The MINI felt spritely and energetic, with the turbocharged four-cylinder engines providing noticeable power, especially at highway speeds. However, the ride was stiff, making long drives tiresome, though the car's agility and cornering ability made it fun to drive.

The 2020 Kia Forte GT featured front sport seats with cloth inserts and Sofino simulated leather bolsters, with full Sofino leatherette available in the GT2 Package or with the manual transmission. The 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat provided excellent comfort and support, and the front passenger seat had a manual height adjuster. The backseat offered good comfort and support, with air conditioning vents for added comfort. The Forte GT's Smart Trunk technology allowed for hands-free access, revealing a roomy 15.3 cubic-foot cargo area. Interior storage was generous, with a wireless smartphone charging pad, door panel storage, and a large glovebox.

The 2021 MINI Cooper's interior was more suited for cargo storage than passengers, with the rear seat being less usable for people. The front seats were comfortable, offering decent head and legroom, though taller drivers might find knee placement challenging. Interior storage was tight, with limited space in the center console and door pockets. The Cooper Hatchbacks provided decent cargo space with the back seats folded down, while Convertible models had a small cargo hold under the folding top compartment.

The 2020 Kia Forte came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a reversing camera. The EX and GT trims included SiriusXM satellite radio and connected services through Kia’s UVO technology. The GT2 Package added an 8-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system, though it struggled with ambient noise. The system's placement and physical controls made it user-friendly.

The 2021 MINI Cooper's base screen was a 6.5-inch unit, with an optional 8.8-inch unit offering SiriusXM satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, and more. Optional features included a Harman Kardon sound system, automatic climate controls, and LED headlights. MINI included more physical controls, improving usability, but did not offer Android Auto. The infotainment system used BMW’s software, with a physical iDrive controller that was difficult to reach due to the tight space.

The 2020 Kia Forte was a Top Safety Pick according to the IIHS, featuring numerous advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS). The GT with the GT2 Package included all available safety features, though the automatic emergency braking system worked only at lower speeds, and the adaptive cruise control did not bring the car to a full stop. The lane-keeping and lane-centering assist systems worked well but required hands on the steering wheel. The UVO eServices technology included 911 Connect and programmable alerts for speed, curfew, and geographical boundaries.

The 2021 MINI Cooper did not receive a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS, though it scored top "Good" ratings in crash tests. The front crash prevention systems earned "Advanced" scores, but the LATCH system received a "Marginal" rating. The NHTSA had not rated the 2021 model. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and rear parking sensors, with optional features like front parking sensors, a parking assistance system, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning.