2023 MINI Cooper vs 2024 Cadillac CT5

The 2023 MINI Cooper, available as a two-door hatchback, four-door hatch, or two-door convertible, maintained its unique charm with a design that stood out among modern cars. Despite being larger than its predecessors due to safety regulations and customer expectations, it remained compact, even smaller than a Mazda Miata. The MINI Cooper's design was playful and authentic, with features like stripes, multicolor roofs, and loud colors. The interior, though slightly more mature, retained its quirky charm with Chesterfield leather seats and a dashboard resembling a ship's porthole. The MINI Cooper's design was both simple and authentic, offering a playful driving experience.

In contrast, the 2024 Cadillac CT5, which succeeded the Cadillac CTS, presented a more restrained yet confident design. While it lacked the bold chrome and geometric surfacing of its predecessor, the CT5's front fascia still exuded a distinctive sneer. The stretched wheelbase and fastback silhouette gave it a stately appearance. Despite being older than some competitors, the CT5 maintained a contemporary look with a cleaner design. The interior, however, seemed a mix of various car elements, lacking a cohesive luxury feel. Despite optional high-end features, the cabin sometimes appeared cheap, contrasting with its exterior elegance.

The 2023 MINI Cooper JCW was the quickest in its lineup, powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine producing 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This engine, shared with some BMW models, offered smooth revving and minimal turbo lag. The six-speed manual transmission provided an engaging driving experience, though clutch take-up was abrupt. The JCW's handling was enjoyable, with flat cornering thanks to a stiff suspension and adaptive dampers. However, the steering lacked immediacy, detracting from the promised "go-kart" experience. Fuel economy varied across models, with the electric MINI Cooper SE offering 114 miles of range.

The 2024 Cadillac CT5 offered multiple powertrain options, starting with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 237 horsepower. A 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 was also available, delivering 335 horsepower. Both engines came with a 10-speed automatic transmission and optional all-wheel drive. Performance variants included the CT5-V with a tuned V6 and the CT5-V Blackwing with a supercharged V8 producing 668 horsepower. The CT5 Premium Luxury test car, with its twin-turbo V6, provided a balanced driving experience, combining luxury with sportiness. Handling was neutral, and the ride quality was sporty yet comfortable, with low interior noise enhancing driving comfort.

The 2023 MINI Cooper offered good outward visibility and ample front seat space, but the rear bench in the two-door model was cramped, with limited cargo space of nine cubic feet. The four-door models provided slightly more cargo room. Convertible models had unique features like a tailgate that folded down for easy access and roof rails that allowed the fabric section to slide back like a sunroof. The instrument panel's matte finish reduced glare, but the infotainment system's buttons were inconveniently placed. The dashboard's glowing ring added a playful touch, responding to various controls.

The 2024 Cadillac CT5 provided comparable passenger space to its rivals, with more front headroom than some competitors. While second-row headroom was limited, the CT5 offered the most legroom in both rows. The trunk space, however, was the smallest among its peers. The driving position was comfortable, with good visibility and adjustable seats. The center console was well-utilized, offering decent storage space despite housing various controls. The CT5's interior design focused on practicality, with well-placed armrests and storage options.

The 2023 MINI Cooper came standard with an 8.8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM radio, and LED headlights. Higher trims added features like a panoramic moonroof and heated seats. The infotainment system, based on older BMW iDrive software, lacked the slick interface of newer systems but included unique features like an Openometer and cartoonish sounds.

The 2024 Cadillac CT5 featured a 10-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Technology Package added a digital instrument cluster and head-up display. The infotainment system, a significant improvement over previous versions, offered smooth operation and user-friendly controls. While it lacked the flashy tech of some competitors, it excelled in everyday usability, with simple icons and sharp graphics.

The 2023 MINI Cooper included eight airbags, rear parking sensors, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. However, it lacked some advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring. The NHTSA had not rated the MINI Cooper, but the IIHS gave it high ratings in most crash tests for the structurally identical 2014 model.

The 2024 Cadillac CT5 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, excelling in frontal, side, and rollover crash tests. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system. The CT5 also offered Super Cruise, a hands-free driver-assist system, enhancing its safety credentials.