2022 BMW 2 Series vs 2021 MINI Cooper

The 2021 MINI Cooper was renowned for its iconic styling, characterized by its rounded shape and compact dimensions. It stood out in the subcompact car market with a wide array of color choices and customization options, including unique roof graphics like the Union Jack flag. The MINI Cooper's interior continued the theme with circular design elements, including a funky infotainment touchscreen encased in a circular light ring. Despite its high-quality materials, the cabin was notably cramped, with back seats more suitable for storage than passengers.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW 2 Series featured a new exterior design that avoided the aggressive front fascia seen in other BMW models. The 2 Series Coupe variants, including the RWD 230i and AWD M240i xDrive, were longer, wider, and lower than their predecessors, enhancing their aerodynamic appearance. The M240i xDrive boasted performance-oriented styling with shadowy M-type accents. Inside, the 2 Series offered a driver-focused layout with standard perforated SensaTec upholstery and optional Vernasca leather. The interior exuded a high-end vibe, though some cost-cutting plastics were evident.

The 2021 MINI Cooper offered four powertrain options, starting with a 134-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine in the base model. The Cooper S featured a 189-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, 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, though its stiff ride could be tiresome on long drives. Fuel economy varied, with the Convertible being the most efficient at 28/37/31 mpg city/highway/combined.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series, despite its subcompact size, packed impressive performance. The 230i Coupe's turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder produced 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, while the M240i xDrive's 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six delivered 382 hp and 369 lb-ft. The 230i Coupe accelerated to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds, while the M240i xDrive achieved it in just 4.1 seconds. Both models featured an eight-speed Sport automatic transmission, with the M240i xDrive offering additional performance features like an adaptive M suspension and M Sport brakes. The 2 Series was fast and fun, though some enthusiasts found the driving experience disconnected.

The 2021 MINI Cooper's interior was compact, with the rear seat more suitable for cargo than passengers. The front seats provided decent comfort and space for average adults, though taller drivers might struggle with knee placement. Interior storage was limited, with small center console and door pockets. The Cooper Hatchbacks offered decent cargo space, while Convertible models had minimal storage.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series, while larger than its predecessor, remained a tight fit for many. The rear seats were best suited for children or short trips, with limited headroom due to the slanted roofline. The trunk offered 10 cubic feet of cargo space, with 40/20/40-split fold-down rear seats for added versatility. The interior featured soft touchpoints and improved ergonomics, though the coupe's design limited trunk access for bulky items.

The 2021 MINI Cooper's base model came with a 6.5-inch screen, with an optional 8.8-inch unit offering features like SiriusXM and Apple CarPlay. While MINI included more physical controls than some automakers, Android Auto was notably absent. The infotainment system used BMW's software, but the tight interior made the iDrive controller difficult to use.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series boasted an 8.8-inch touchscreen and a 5.1-inch driver information display as standard. The infotainment system featured iDrive 7, cloud-based navigation, and real-time traffic updates. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, along with a WiFi hotspot and two USB ports. The optional Live Cockpit Professional upgraded the displays and added a head-up display. The audio system included a standard 10-speaker setup, with an optional Harman Kardon system for enhanced sound.

The 2021 MINI Cooper missed out on a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS, though it scored "Good" in crash tests. Its standard safety features included forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking, with optional features like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. The NHTSA had not rated the 2021 model.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series came with Active Driving Assistant, including blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, and lane departure warning. Standard features also included a rearview camera and adaptive cruise control. Optional safety features included adaptive LED headlights and a 360-degree surround view. The 2 Series had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA.