2022 MINI Cooper vs 2022 Lexus ES

The 2022 Lexus ES had long been a staple in the Lexus lineup, evolving over seven generations since its debut in 1990. Despite a decline in sales since its peak in 2007, the ES continued to attract a loyal customer base, primarily among an older demographic. Lexus faced the challenge of appealing to younger buyers without alienating its existing clientele, resulting in a design that was both safe and slightly unconventional. The latest generation, launched in 2018, utilized the Global Architecture-K platform, shared with models like the Lexus RX and Toyota Camry. The ES featured elegant proportions, a sleek roofline, and the distinctive Lexus "spindle" grille, with wheel options ranging from 17 to 19 inches. Inside, the ES offered a well-assembled but asymmetrical dashboard, with bold two-tone leather seating in the F Sport model, and a small analog chronometer that added a touch of heritage.

The 2022 MINI Cooper, on the other hand, retained its iconic design while embracing modernity. Over the years, the MINI lineup expanded to include various body styles, but the Hardtop and Convertible remained the quintessential MINI Coopers. For 2022, the models received refreshed styling, including restyled bumpers, a new grille, and standard LED headlights. The interior featured a new steering wheel and an updated infotainment system with an 8.8-inch touchscreen. The MINI Convertible exuded personality, though its proportions remained somewhat awkward. Inside, it combined retro charm with modern technology, offering a range of customization options. However, the emphasis on design over function resulted in a cluttered interior, and the rear seats were largely impractical. Despite these quirks, the MINI Convertible promised a fun driving experience, especially with the top down.

The 2022 Lexus ES offered three distinct models, each with its own powertrain. The base ES 250 AWD featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It achieved an EPA rating of 25 mpg city/34 mpg highway/28 mpg combined. The ES 350, equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivered 307 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, reaching 0-60 mph in 6.6 seconds. The ES 300h hybrid combined a 176-hp four-cylinder engine with a 39-hp electric motor for a total of 215 hp, excelling in fuel economy with 43 mpg city/44 mpg highway/44 mpg combined. The ES 250 AWD, while smooth and predictable, felt underpowered for a luxury sedan, whereas the ES 350 offered a more engaging drive, and the ES 300h prioritized efficiency.

The 2022 MINI Cooper provided a choice between two engines. The base model featured a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with 134 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, while the Cooper S boasted a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 189 horsepower and 206 pound-feet of torque. The Cooper S accelerated to 60 mph in under seven seconds, offering a more spirited drive. Both engines were available with a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The JCW models took performance further with a tuned version of the Cooper S engine, delivering 235 horsepower and 228 pound-feet of torque. Despite its sporty nature, the MINI Cooper was not a sports car, but rather a fun, engaging ride with a broad torque range. However, the steering response and brake feel left room for improvement, and the car's handling was less precise than expected.

The 2022 Lexus ES offered a practical and aesthetically pleasing sedan experience. With 13.9 cubic feet of trunk space, the ES provided ample storage, even in the hybrid variant. The second row in the ES 250 and ES 350 folded flat, accommodating larger items. The sedan's lower center of gravity and ground clearance contributed to better handling compared to its SUV counterpart, the Lexus RX. Inside, the ES featured convenient storage options, including large bottle pockets and a spacious center console. The dashboard layout, while not visually striking, was functional and user-friendly, catering to its mature audience.

In contrast, the 2022 MINI Cooper prioritized form over function, especially in the Convertible model. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seats were largely impractical, even for children. The trunk offered just 5.2 cubic feet of space, accessible through a bottom-hinged lid. Interior storage was limited, with the infotainment controls occupying valuable space. While the MINI's compact size was expected, those seeking more passenger and cargo room could opt for other MINI models like the Hardtop 4 Door or Clubman.

The 2022 Lexus ES came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. A 10-speaker Pioneer sound system, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM satellite radio were standard, with upper trims offering a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a Mark Levinson 17-speaker audio system. The ES also included a 10-inch head-up display and a Panoramic View Monitor with Intuitive Parking Assist. Lexus Enform connected services provided emergency assistance, maintenance notifications, and remote capabilities.

The 2022 MINI Cooper introduced a new MINI Connected infotainment system with an 8.8-inch touchscreen, LED lighting, and customizable widgets. It supported Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa, with options for navigation, wireless charging, and a Harman Kardon sound system. The system, based on BMW's iDrive technology, paired with a digital instrument cluster. A head-up display was available, and the Harman Kardon system delivered impressive sound quality, even with the top down.

The 2022 Lexus ES excelled in safety, earning a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, with pre-collision detection, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and more. The ES also offered blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and 10 airbags, ensuring comprehensive protection.

The 2022 MINI Cooper, while not rated by the NHTSA or IIHS, featured newly standard Driving Assistant technology, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. Adaptive cruise control was optional, but blind-spot monitoring was unavailable. The lane-departure warning system provided subtle feedback, enhancing driver awareness.