2022 MINI Cooper vs 2021 Subaru Legacy

The 2021 Subaru Legacy was a midsize sedan that often flew under the radar, competing with popular models like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. Available in six trim levels, it carried over much of the styling and mechanics from the Subaru Outback wagon. The Legacy featured standard low-beam and high-beam steering-responsive LED headlights, high-gloss stainless steel side-window moldings, and a variety of wheel options. Its interior was subdued yet functional, with a blend of high-quality materials and piano black plastic. Leather upholstery was available, and the cabin was designed to meet the practical needs of Subaru buyers.

In contrast, the 2022 MINI Cooper was a modern take on a classic design, retaining much of the original MINI's charm while incorporating contemporary features. The 2022 model received refreshed bumpers, a new grille, and standard LED headlights. The interior was a mix of retro and modern technology, with a wide range of customization options. The convertible version offered a unique open-air experience, although it prioritized form over function, resulting in a cluttered interior. The Sidewalk Edition added exclusive features like Deep Laguna Metallic paint and a $7,000 option package.

The 2021 Subaru Legacy offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, and a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive (AWD). The Legacy's AWD system provided excellent stability over rough terrain, although the steering could be challenging at highway speeds without lane-centering technology. Fuel economy for the 2.5-liter engine was 27 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, and 30 mpg combined, while the turbocharged engine achieved 24 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, and 27 mpg combined.

The 2022 MINI Cooper came with a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine producing 134 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque, with a 0-60 mph time of over eight seconds. The Cooper S variant featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 189 hp and 206 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in under seven seconds. Both engines offered a choice between a six-speed manual and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive (FWD). The JCW models had a tuned version of the Cooper S engine, delivering 235 hp and 228 lb-ft of torque, and a 0-60 mph time of just over six seconds. The Cooper S test car averaged 27.1 mpg, slightly better than the EPA's estimate of 26 mpg combined.

The 2021 Subaru Legacy focused on comfort, featuring a sound-insulation windshield and improved seat positioning. The front seats were available with manual or power adjustments, and the rear seats offered ample legroom for adults. Heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel were available. However, the Legacy's 15.1 cubic feet of trunk space was limited due to the spacious rear seating area.

The 2022 MINI Cooper Convertible prioritized form over function, with comfortable front seats but nearly unusable rear seats. The trunk offered just 5.2 cubic feet of space, accessible through a bottom-hinged lid. Interior storage was limited, and the infotainment system's physical controls consumed valuable space. While the MINI's small size was expected, it was clear that the Convertible was not designed for practicality.

The 2021 Subaru Legacy featured dual 7-inch infotainment and climate control displays on the base model, with an 11.6-inch screen available on higher trims. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and multiple USB ports. Upmarket trims added navigation, a Harman Kardon audio system, and additional power outlets. The infotainment system was functional but lacked sophistication, with a multicolored background that felt out of place.

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, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Navigation, wireless smartphone charging, and a Harman Kardon sound system were available. The infotainment system was based on BMW's iDrive technology and paired with a digital instrument cluster. A head-up display was also available, and the Harman Kardon sound system provided impressive audio quality.

The 2021 Subaru Legacy excelled in safety, earning top scores from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included Subaru EyeSight technology, adaptive cruise control, pre-collision automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning. Additional features like reverse automatic braking and blind-spot monitoring were available. The Legacy also came with a three-year/36,000-mile new car limited warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain limited warranty.

The 2022 MINI Cooper benefited from its increased size, offering better protection in collisions. However, it lacked crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. Adaptive cruise control was available, but blind-spot monitoring and a digital rearview mirror were not. The lane-departure warning system provided subtle feedback, but the lack of comprehensive safety features was a drawback.