2021 MINI Cooper vs 2022 Toyota Corolla

The 2021 MINI Cooper was renowned for its iconic styling, which set it apart in the subcompact car market. Its rounded shape, compact dimensions, and a wide array of color choices made it instantly recognizable. The MINI offered numerous customization options, including exterior graphics and unique features like Union Jack taillights. Inside, the design language continued with circular motifs throughout the cabin, including a funky infotainment touchscreen encased in a circular light ring. While the interior was high quality, space was limited, especially in the back seats, which were more suitable for storage than passengers.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla, on the other hand, aimed to shed Toyota's reputation for blandness with bold exterior styling, including LED headlights and a wide grille. Different trim levels offered unique styling elements, such as the aggressive front fascia on SE and XSE models and the sporty body kit on Apex Editions. The Corolla's interior was less imaginative but maintained a simple, appealing look. While fit and finish were up to Toyota's standards, the use of piano black plastic was a downside. The SE Apex Edition shared the same interior as the standard SE, with light gray upholstery that seemed prone to stains.

The 2021 MINI Cooper offered four powertrain options, starting with a 134-horsepower 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 boasted 228-hp and 301-hp turbo-fours, respectively. All models were front-wheel drive, with manual and automatic transmission options. The MINI's small size contributed to its energetic feel, though the ride was stiff, and road imperfections were noticeable. Fuel economy varied, with the Convertible being the most efficient at 28/37/31 mpg city/highway/combined.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla sedan offered two engine options: a 139-hp 1.8-liter four-cylinder for L, LE, and XLE models, and a 169-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder for SE and XSE models. The Apex Edition featured the same engine with a sport exhaust system. A CVT was standard with the smaller engine, while the 2.0-liter engine could be paired with a six-speed manual on SE models. The Apex Edition's suspension enhancements improved handling but compromised ride quality. Despite its sporty aspirations, the Apex Edition lacked significant performance upgrades, making it less thrilling than expected.

The 2021 MINI Cooper's interior was more suited for cargo than passengers, with the rear seat being more practical for storage. The front seats were comfortable, offering decent head and legroom, though taller drivers might struggle with knee space due to the dash design. Interior storage was limited, with small center console and door pockets. Hatchback models provided reasonable cargo space, while Convertibles had minimal storage.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla's interior felt roomy, aided by a low beltline for better visibility. However, the steep windshield and deep dashboard affected forward visibility. The driver's seat was repositioned for optimal comfort, but knee space was still limited for taller drivers. The Corolla's 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space lagged behind competitors, though a 60/40 split-folding rear seat was standard. Storage for smaller items was limited, with a thin center console and shallow cupholders.

The 2021 MINI Cooper was not generous with standard features, offering a 6.5-inch screen with an optional 8.8-inch upgrade. Apple CarPlay was available, but Android Auto was not. Optional features included a Harman Kardon sound system and LED headlights. The MINI's infotainment system, borrowed from BMW, included a physical iDrive controller, though its placement made it difficult to use.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla's infotainment system was starting to show its age, with a 7-inch touchscreen on the base model and an 8-inch screen on higher trims. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker audio system, with a JBL upgrade available. The interface was user-friendly, but some tasks were cumbersome, and the graphics appeared outdated. The Corolla lacked innovative tech features like a digital key.

The 2021 MINI Cooper did not receive a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS, though it scored "Good" in crash tests. Headlight ratings varied, and the LATCH system was rated "Marginal." Standard safety features included forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking, with additional features available as options. The NHTSA had not rated the 2021 model.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla earned a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests but mixed headlight ratings. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall rating. The Corolla came with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring was available on certain trims.