2021 Dodge Charger vs 2021 MINI Cooper

The 2021 MINI Cooper was renowned for its iconic styling, which was as recognizable as the Jeep Wrangler. Its rounded shape, compact dimensions, and a wide array of color choices set it apart in the subcompact car market. MINI offered numerous customization options, including exterior and top graphics like the Union Jack flag, and hidden Easter eggs such as Union Jack taillights. Despite its small size, the MINI Cooper was larger than the original Mini, with available wheel and trim upgrades. Inside, the MINI Cooper continued its unique design language with circular motifs throughout the seats, dash, and center stack. The infotainment touchscreen was mounted within a circular light ring, and the cabin, though high in quality, was notably cramped, especially in the back seats, which were more suitable for packages than passengers.

The 2021 Dodge Charger, entering its seventh generation, maintained its popularity due to the variety of models offered, including the top-tier SRT Hellcat Redeye. The Charger’s design remained consistent over the years, giving it a timeless yet potentially outdated appearance. Dodge offered both regular and widebody formats, with the latter providing a more athletic stance. The Charger boasted numerous tire, wheel, brake, and color options, with 18 wheel choices and 13 paint jobs. The interior, though updated, still lacked some comfort and convenience features, with a fair amount of hard plastic and rubberized surfaces. Cloth seats were standard, with Nappa leather available on higher trims. Despite its utilitarian feel, the Charger’s fit and finish improved over time, though some elements revealed the model's age.

The 2021 MINI Cooper offered four powertrain options, starting with a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine producing 134 horsepower. The Cooper S featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 189 hp, while the John Cooper Works (JCW) and JCW GP models delivered 228 hp and 301 hp, respectively. All models were front-wheel drive, with manual and automatic transmission options. The MINI Cooper was known for its sprightly and energetic feel, with the turbocharged four-cylinder engines providing more robust performance, especially at highway speeds. The JCW GP model was particularly noted for its impressive acceleration. However, the MINI’s ride was somewhat stiff, making long drives less comfortable, though it excelled in agility and cornering. Fuel economy varied, with the most efficient model being the Convertible at 28/37/31 mpg city/highway/combined.

The 2021 Dodge Charger excelled in performance, offering a range of engines. The SXT, SXT AWD, GT, and GT AWD models featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 300 horsepower. The R/T model had a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 with 370 hp, while the Scat Pack models boasted a 6.4-liter HEMI V8 with 485 hp. The SRT Hellcat had a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 producing 717 hp, and the SRT Hellcat Redeye topped the lineup with 797 hp. All engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Charger’s performance was impressive, with the SRT Hellcat Redeye offering a thrilling driving experience. However, its fuel efficiency was low, with the Hellcat Redeye achieving 12 mpg city, 21 mpg highway, and 15 mpg combined. The Charger’s driving experience was connected and responsive, with configurable drive modes and Performance Pages for SRT models.

The 2021 MINI Cooper’s interior was a nod to its heritage, with the rear seat more suited for cargo than passengers. The front seats were comfortable, offering decent head and legroom, though taller drivers might struggle with knee placement due to the dash design. Interior storage was limited, with small center console and door pockets. Hatchback models provided decent cargo space, with foldable back seats for additional storage. Convertible models had a small cargo hold, with minimal usable space in the back.

The 2021 Dodge Charger, a four-door, five-passenger sedan, balanced speed and power with family-friendly features. The interior technology was dated but functional, with varying instrument cluster designs based on the model’s top speed. The steering wheel was well-designed, with easy-to-use buttons and paddle shifters on all but the base model. The Charger offered a spacious trunk, expandable with a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, providing average cargo space compared to other large cars.

The 2021 MINI Cooper was not generous with standard features, offering a 6.5-inch screen with an optional 8.8-inch unit that included SiriusXM, Apple CarPlay, and more. Optional features included a Harman Kardon sound system and automatic climate controls. MINI included more physical controls, enhancing usability, but did not offer Android Auto, relying on Bluetooth for connectivity. The infotainment system used BMW’s software, with a physical iDrive controller that was difficult to reach due to tight space.

The 2021 Dodge Charger came with basic standard features, including a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen, Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. Available upgrades included a sunroof, dual-zone climate control, an 8.4-inch touchscreen, and premium audio systems. The Uconnect system was user-friendly, though some functions were buried in menus. The latest Uconnect version was not yet available on the Charger, which would have addressed some usability issues.

The 2021 MINI Cooper did not receive a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, with "Good" crash test ratings but "Acceptable" or "Poor" headlight ratings. The standard front crash prevention system earned "Advanced" scores, while the LATCH system was rated "Marginal." 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 adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning.

The 2021 Dodge Charger had not been crash-tested by the IIHS, but the 2020 model received mostly "Good" ratings with "Poor" headlight marks. The NHTSA awarded the Charger a four-star overall safety rating. Standard safety features included brake assist, electronic stability control, and rear park assist, with optional features like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring available on select models.