2022 MINI Cooper vs 2021 Lexus ES

The 2021 Lexus ES expanded its lineup to include the new ES 250 series, featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel drive (AWD). This model was priced similarly to the ES 350, which had a 3.5-liter V6 and front-wheel drive (FWD). The ES 250 and ES 350 were available in Standard, F Sport, Luxury, and Ultra Luxury trims. Additionally, the ES 300h hybrid variant offered improved fuel economy at a premium of $1,910. Lexus also introduced a limited-production Black Line Special Edition for the ES 350, featuring unique styling elements and a matching set of Zero Halliburton luggage.

The 2022 MINI Cooper, refreshed for the model year, retained its iconic design while incorporating modern updates. The lineup included the Hardtop (two-door and four-door), Convertible, Clubman, and Countryman. The 2022 models received restyled bumpers, a new grille, standard LED headlights, and updated wheel designs. Interior changes included a new steering wheel and a next-generation infotainment system with an 8.8-inch touchscreen. Despite its charming appearance, the MINI Convertible's proportions remained awkward, and its design emphasized form over function.

The 2021 Lexus ES 350 featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 302 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered Normal, Eco, and Sport driving modes, with Sport+ and Custom modes available with the adaptive damping suspension. The ES 350 accelerated to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds and had an EPA fuel economy rating of 25 mpg combined. During testing, it averaged 22.9 mpg. The ES 350 F Sport provided a surprisingly engaging driving experience, with firm ride quality and flat cornering, though it was not an outright sports sedan.

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 variant featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 189 horsepower and 206 pound-feet of torque, achieving 60 mph in under seven seconds. Both engines were available with a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The JCW models had a tuned version of the Cooper S engine, producing 235 horsepower and 228 pound-feet of torque, reaching 60 mph in just over six seconds. The Cooper S test car averaged 27.1 mpg, slightly better than the EPA's 26 mpg combined rating. Despite its sporty nature, the MINI Convertible's steering and brake feel were disappointing, and its tires struggled with aggressive cornering.

The 2021 Lexus ES featured a daring interior layout with sport-bolstered front seats offering 10-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. The rear seats provided ample foot and legroom, with rear air conditioning vents and an available power rear window sunshade. Outward visibility was excellent, and storage was plentiful, though oddly configured. The trunk offered 13.9 cubic feet of space, with an optional hands-free power trunk for added convenience.

The 2022 MINI Cooper Convertible prioritized form over function, with comfortable front seats but essentially useless rear seats. The trunk measured just 5.2 cubic feet, accessible through a bottom-hinged lid. Interior storage was limited, with the infotainment system's controls consuming valuable space. While the MINI's small size was expected, those needing more passenger and cargo space could opt for other MINI models like the Hardtop 4 Door, Clubman, or Countryman.

The 2021 Lexus ES had a problematic touchpad interface, requiring drivers to look away from the road to operate it. However, the climate and stereo controls were separate and easily accessible. The ES featured a standard 8-inch display, with an optional 12.3-inch widescreen display that looked terrific but needed to be a touchscreen. The infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, SiriusXM satellite radio, HD Radio, and connected services. A 10-speaker premium sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system available.

The 2022 MINI Cooper introduced a new MINI Connected infotainment system with a standard 8.8-inch touchscreen display. The system offered Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa integration, SiriusXM satellite radio, and BMW-based connected services. Navigation, wireless smartphone charging, and a Harman Kardon premium sound system were available. The infotainment system was based on BMW's iDrive technology and paired with a standard digital instrument cluster. A head-up display was also available, and the Harman Kardon sound system provided impressive sound quality.

The 2021 Lexus ES came standard with Lexus Safety System 2.0, which included forward-collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, lane-centering assistance, adaptive cruise control, road-sign recognition, and automatic high-beam headlights. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on all trims except the base. The ES received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 MINI Cooper Convertible benefited from its increased size, offering better protection in collisions. However, it lacked crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS. The MINI Convertible included standard Driving Assistant technology, such as forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. Adaptive cruise control was optional, but blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were not available. The lane-departure warning system was effective, but the lack of other advanced safety features was a drawback.