2022 MINI Cooper vs 2021 Subaru WRX

The 2021 Subaru WRX had a reputation for its adolescent aesthetic, often seen as the rebellious member of the Subaru family. While it looked tamer compared to the racier WRX STI, the standard WRX still sported a wedge-like front end and a short trunk lid, giving it a speedy appearance even when stationary. Aerodynamic bodywork and a functional hood scoop added to its sporty look. Inside, the WRX's cockpit was function-first, featuring plenty of hard plastics, which contributed to its less refined reputation compared to competitors like the VW GTI and Honda Civic Si.

In contrast, the 2022 MINI Cooper retained its iconic design while incorporating modern updates. The refreshed model featured restyled bumpers, a new grille, standard LED headlights, and Union Jack taillights. The interior boasted a new steering wheel and an updated infotainment system with an 8.8-inch touchscreen. Despite its retro charm, the MINI Convertible's styling didn't resolve its awkward proportions, and the new grille drew attention to its overbite. Inside, the MINI Convertible felt open and airy with the top down, but its emphasis on design over function resulted in a cluttered interior.

The 2021 Subaru WRX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder boxer engine, producing 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Buyers could choose between a six-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Despite being the most powerful in its class, the WRX required precise rev management to extract its full potential. The CVT, though not ideal for driving enthusiasts, kept the revs in the powerband effectively. The manual transmission, however, felt vague and less precise compared to the WRX STI. The WRX also featured Vehicle Dynamics Control with Active Torque Vectoring, enhancing its cornering precision, though it had a stiffer ride compared to rivals like the Civic Si and GTI.

The 2022 MINI Cooper offered a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with 134 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, taking over eight seconds to reach 60 mph. The Cooper S variant, with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivered 189 horsepower and 206 pound-feet of torque, reaching 60 mph in under seven seconds. Both engines were available with a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The Cooper S provided a sporty driving experience, though it wasn't a true sports car. The JCW models offered even more power with 235 horsepower and 228 pound-feet of torque, reaching 60 mph in just over six seconds. However, the MINI's steering response and brake pedal feel were disappointing, reducing driving satisfaction.

The 2021 Subaru WRX featured a conventional sedan layout with a trunk offering up to 12 cubic feet of cargo space. While it provided more space than the Civic Si coupe, it fell short compared to the VW GTI's 53.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The WRX's interior packaging felt dated, with limited storage options for larger water bottles. However, it offered a comfortable driving position with good visibility and decent rear seat space for a compact sedan.

The 2022 MINI Cooper Convertible prioritized form over function, with comfortable front seats but essentially useless rear seats. The trunk measured just 5.2 cubic feet, accessible through a bottom-hinged lid. Interior storage was limited, with the infotainment system's controls consuming valuable space. While the MINI's small size was expected, it was better suited for those who didn't need rear passenger room or a large cargo area.

The 2021 Subaru WRX came standard with a 6.5-inch touchscreen running Subaru's Starlink infotainment system, with a 7-inch touchscreen available on higher trims. Both screens supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, offering a sensible layout and easy-to-use controls despite dated graphics. The Limited trim featured an optional package with navigation and a Harman Kardon premium stereo, providing solid sound quality.

The 2022 MINI Cooper introduced a new MINI Connected infotainment system with a standard 8.8-inch touchscreen. The system featured LED lighting with 12 colors, changing based on vehicle settings. It offered Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa integration, SiriusXM satellite radio, and BMW-based connected services. Navigation, wireless smartphone charging, and a Harman Kardon premium sound system were available. The system, based on BMW's iDrive technology, paired with a digital instrument cluster and an optional head-up display.

The 2021 Subaru WRX did not come standard with the latest safety features. Subaru's EyeSight system, including adaptive cruise control, emergency automatic braking, and lane-departure warning, was available only on Premium and Limited trims with the CVT. Adaptive high beams, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and reverse automatic braking were optional on the Limited trim. All trims came standard with a tire-pressure monitoring system and traction control.

The 2022 MINI Cooper Convertible benefited from its increased size, offering better protection in collisions. However, it lacked crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS. The MINI Convertible came with newly standard Driving Assistant technology, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. Adaptive cruise control was optional for automatic transmission models. Blind-spot monitoring and a digital rearview mirror were not available, posing visibility challenges with the top raised.