2022 MINI Cooper vs 2021 BMW 3 Series

The 2021 BMW 3 Series returned to its roots with a design reminiscent of its larger siblings, the 5 Series and 7 Series. However, the G20 3 Series didn't quite capture the iconic status of its predecessor, the E30. The oversized grille, which suited the larger models, seemed out of place on this smaller sedan, and the overall design lacked distinctive features beyond the grille and headlights. The M Sport trim added some flair with 19-inch wheels and blue brake calipers, but the standard Sport Line trim was more subdued. Inside, the cabin design was pleasant but marred by subpar materials, with plastic trim and faux wood detracting from the luxury feel. Leather upholstery was optional, and the M heated steering wheel seemed mismatched with the otherwise conservative interior.

In contrast, the 2022 MINI Cooper embraced its heritage while modernizing its design. The MINI Convertible, refreshed for 2022, featured restyled bumpers, a new grille, and standard LED headlights, along with Union Jack taillights. New paint colors and wheel designs added to its charm. Inside, the MINI Convertible retained its retro appeal with modern touches, offering a customizable interior with various colors and materials. The convertible top, which could be lowered in 18 seconds, provided an open-air experience unique to the MINI. However, the emphasis on design over function resulted in a cluttered interior, and the proportions remained awkward. Despite these quirks, the MINI's personality shone through, promising a fun driving experience.

The 2021 BMW 3 Series offered a range of powertrains, starting with the base 330i's 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The 330e plug-in hybrid combined a less powerful version of this engine with electric assist, producing 288 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, with an XtraBoost function for added power. The M340i featured a turbo inline-six engine, generating 382 hp and 369 lb-ft. All models came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and the choice of rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. The M340i could sprint from zero to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds, while the 330i took 5.6 seconds. The 330e matched the 330i's acceleration despite its hybrid components, but the transition between electric and gasoline power was clunky. The 3 Series excelled in comfort and handling, but lacked the engaging driving experience of its predecessors.

The 2022 MINI Cooper offered a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with 134 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, taking over eight seconds to reach 60 mph. The Cooper S, with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivered 189 hp and 206 lb-ft, achieving 60 mph in under seven seconds. Both engines were available with a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and the MINI was front-wheel drive. The Cooper S test car, equipped with a manual transmission, provided a spirited driving experience, achieving 27.1 mpg in testing. The JCW models offered a more thrilling ride with 235 hp and 228 lb-ft, reaching 60 mph in just over six seconds. Despite its sporty nature, the MINI's steering and brake feel were disappointing, and the tires struggled on curvy roads. The ride quality varied, with a firm, choppy feel on highways.

The 2021 BMW 3 Series excelled in interior space for a small luxury sedan, offering the best rear headroom in its segment and above-average front headroom. Legroom was average, potentially causing discomfort for rear passengers with tall front-seat occupants. The 3 Series lacked the shoulder room of some competitors, but its 17 cubic feet of cargo space was generous for gasoline models. The 330e's battery pack reduced trunk space to 13.2 cubic feet, and the trunk's shape required careful packing. The cockpit was well-designed, with a touchscreen positioned for easy access and good visibility.

The 2022 MINI Cooper prioritized form over function, especially in the Convertible model. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seats were nearly unusable, even for children. The trunk offered just 5.2 cubic feet of space, accessible through a bottom-hinged lid. Cabin storage was limited, with the infotainment controls taking up valuable space. While the MINI's compact size was expected, those needing more room could opt for other MINI models like the Hardtop 4 Door, Clubman, or Countryman.

The 2021 BMW 3 Series featured the iDrive infotainment system with an 8.8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and USB ports. Gasoline models included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the 330e only offered CarPlay. The optional Live Cockpit Professional system added a digital instrument cluster, navigation, and a head-up display. The system was user-friendly, with high-quality graphics and responsive controls. BMW provided multiple control options, including the iDrive controller, steering wheel controls, voice assistant, and gesture controls, allowing users to choose their preferred method.

The 2022 MINI Cooper introduced the MINI Connected infotainment system with a standard 8.8-inch touchscreen, LED lighting, and customizable graphics. The system supported Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, SiriusXM, and BMW-based connected services. Navigation, wireless charging, and a Harman Kardon sound system were available. The system, based on BMW's iDrive, paired with a digital instrument cluster, which performed well even in convertible models. A head-up display was also available, visible with polarized sunglasses. The Harman Kardon sound system provided impressive sound quality, overcoming ambient noise.

The 2021 BMW 3 Series earned a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests but mixed headlight ratings. The NHTSA had not rated the 3 Series. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. The optional Driving Assistant Professional Package added adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automated lane centering, with features like stop-and-go function and Active Side Collision Avoidance.

The 2022 MINI Cooper benefited from its increased size for safety, but neither the NHTSA nor the IIHS had published crash-test ratings. The MINI Convertible included standard Driving Assistant technology with forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. Adaptive cruise control was optional for automatic models. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were unavailable, posing challenges with visibility. The lane-departure warning system provided effective feedback through the steering wheel.