2022 MINI Cooper vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, part of the W213 generation, showcased a design evolution that embraced the "sensual purity" theme, moving away from the sharper angles of its predecessor. This model featured a more fluid and curvier form, reminiscent of the S-Class and C-Class models from earlier years. The E-Class received updates such as squinted headlights and an inverted trapezoid grille, giving it a slightly edgier appearance. Despite these changes, it maintained its reputation as a handsome and elegant vehicle, available in sedan, wagon, coupe, and convertible forms. Inside, the E-Class offered a luxurious cabin filled with rich materials like polished woods, aluminum, and carbon fiber, creating an inviting and opulent atmosphere. The interior was equipped with advanced technology, including two 12-inch screens and a digital instrument panel, enhancing the car's modern appeal.

In contrast, the 2022 MINI Cooper retained its iconic design, staying true to the brand's heritage while incorporating modern elements. Over the years, the MINI had grown in size, offering various body styles such as the Hardtop, Convertible, Clubman, and Countryman. The 2022 model received updates like restyled bumpers, a new grille, and standard LED headlights, along with fresh paint colors and wheel designs. Inside, the MINI Convertible exuded personality with its retro-inspired design and modern technology. The cabin allowed for customization with a range of colors and materials, and the convertible top provided an open-air experience unique to the MINI. However, the emphasis on design sometimes compromised functionality, resulting in a cluttered interior. Despite these quirks, the MINI Cooper remained a fun and distinctive choice for those seeking a playful driving experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class introduced significant changes to its powertrain lineup, transitioning from conventional V6 engines to electrified inline-six powertrains. The E450 model became a hybrid, utilizing a 48-volt electrical system to enhance power and efficiency. This system provided an additional 21 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque for brief moments, allowing the engine to shut off more frequently to save fuel. The E450's 3.0-liter inline-six engine produced 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, offering a quiet and smooth driving experience. The AMG E53 model added a second turbocharger, delivering 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, providing brisk acceleration and a sporty exhaust note. The AMG E63 S, with its hand-built 4.0-liter V8 engine, boasted 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque, making it a high-performance variant with impressive speed and handling capabilities. Despite the power, the E-Class maintained a comfortable ride, with fuel economy ratings ranging from 18 to 26 mpg combined, depending on the model.

The 2022 MINI Cooper offered a range of engine options, starting with a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine producing 134 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. For more spirited performance, the Cooper S featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 189 horsepower and 206 lb-ft of torque, allowing the MINI Convertible to reach 60 mph in under seven seconds. The JCW models took performance further with a tuned version of the Cooper S engine, delivering 235 horsepower and 228 lb-ft of torque. The MINI Convertible was front-wheel drive and offered a choice between a six-speed manual and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. While the MINI provided a fun driving experience, it was not a sports car, and its handling was more about enjoyment than precision. Fuel economy for the Cooper S was rated at 26 mpg combined, with our test achieving 27.1 mpg. Despite some handling quirks, the MINI Cooper remained a playful and engaging car to drive.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered a spacious and comfortable cabin, accommodating four adults with ample headroom and legroom. The seats were supportive, and the interior featured a range of luxurious materials and advanced technology. The E-Class sedan provided 13 cubic feet of trunk space, while the coupe and convertible models offered slightly less. The wagon variant boasted a generous 35 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 64 cubic feet with the seats folded. The E-Class All-Terrain model added versatility with increased ground clearance and rugged styling. Despite its luxury, some features like rear USB ports and heated rear seats were missing in certain trims.

In contrast, the 2022 MINI Cooper prioritized form over function, especially in the Convertible model. The front seats were comfortable and supportive, but the rear seats were essentially unusable for passengers, making them more suitable for additional luggage space. The trunk offered just 5.2 cubic feet of storage, accessible through a unique bottom-hinged lid. Interior storage was limited, with the infotainment controls taking up valuable space on the center console. While the MINI's compact 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 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system, offering a user-friendly interface with a touchscreen display. The system included natural voice processing, gesture controls, and a range of connected services. The E-Class also offered advanced features like massaging seats, seat kinetics, and a variety of display options for the instrument cluster. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, they were not wireless, and over-the-air updates were not available. Optional driving assists provided semi-autonomous capabilities, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2022 MINI Cooper introduced the MINI Connected infotainment system with an 8.8-inch touchscreen display. The system allowed drivers to customize the display with widgets and offered Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa integration, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Navigation, wireless smartphone charging, and a Harman Kardon sound system were available options. The system was based on BMW's iDrive technology and paired with a digital instrument cluster. Despite being a convertible, the screens remained visible in most lighting conditions. The optional Harman Kardon sound system provided impressive audio quality, even with the top down.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was recognized for its safety, earning a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick+" designation from the IIHS. The E-Class featured innovative safety technologies like Pre-Safe Sound and side bolster inflation during side collisions. Standard safety features included forward automatic emergency braking, a driver-attention monitor, and blind-spot monitoring, with additional driver-assist features available as options.

The 2022 MINI Cooper benefited from its increased size, offering improved occupant protection. However, crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS were not available for the latest model. The MINI Convertible came with standard Driving Assistant technology, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. Adaptive cruise control was optional, but blind-spot monitoring was not available, which could be a drawback given the visibility challenges with the top raised.