2019 MINI Cooper vs 2020 Hyundai Elantra

The 2019 MINI Cooper retained its iconic charm, though it had grown in size and sophistication compared to its predecessors. While it still promised fun in a compact package, the design had evolved, with larger headlights and taillights, and a longer front overhang, which some felt detracted from its classic elegance. Inside, the once-beloved pie-plate speedometer was replaced by a modern infotainment screen, surrounded by mood lighting, and the interior maintained its quirky toggle switches and gauges. Despite these changes, the MINI Cooper continued to exude individuality, though the added technology introduced complexity that some enthusiasts preferred to avoid.

In contrast, the 2020 Hyundai Elantra, unchanged from its bold 2019 restyle, presented a geometric design that set the stage for future models. Available in six trims, the Elantra offered a range of prices and features, with the Limited trim showcasing a sleek black exterior with chrome accents. The interior received an upscale touch with silver trim and leather upholstery, though it still reminded occupants of its compact car roots with some hard plastics. The Elantra provided a comfortable ride for four adults, with a spacious trunk and thoughtful features like a front passenger seat-height adjuster and dual-zone climate control.

The 2019 MINI Cooper, particularly in the John Cooper Works variant, was a performance powerhouse. Its turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine delivered 228 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque, allowing it to sprint to 60 mph in just 5.9 seconds with the automatic transmission. Enthusiasts might prefer the manual gearbox for a more engaging drive, despite the automatic's sport mode and paddle shifters. The Knight’s Edition test car featured a Pro Exhaust Valve for an exhilarating sound, though torque steer and occasional brake issues during spirited driving were noted. The car's handling was generally sharp, but the Pirelli tires squealed in tight corners, suggesting a need for summer performance tires.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra offered a more varied performance lineup. The base engine, a 147-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder paired with a new CVT, provided adequate power for most drivers. The Eco model featured a 1.4-liter turbo engine with 128 horsepower and improved torque, while the Sport trim boasted a 1.6-liter turbo engine with 201 horsepower and an independent rear suspension for better handling. Despite the CVT's promise of improved efficiency, real-world tests showed disappointing fuel economy. The Elantra's ride was comfortable but less refined due to its torsion beam rear suspension, though the Sport trim offered a more engaging drive.

The 2019 MINI Cooper, even as a 2-door hardtop, offered surprising utility. While the back seat was cramped, the trunk could expand from 8.7 cubic feet to a generous 34 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The front seats provided ample adjustment, and the interior was characterized by its unique design elements, such as chrome toggle switches and unconventional controls, which prioritized style over practicality.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra excelled in interior space, comfortably accommodating four adults with a fifth in a pinch. The Limited trim featured power-adjustable seats, leather upholstery, and a sliding armrest for added comfort. The Elantra's trunk offered 14.4 cubic feet of space, rivaling some midsize sedans. Thoughtful touches like a trunk lid grab handle and dual-zone climate control added to its appeal, though rear passengers lacked air conditioning vents.

The 2019 MINI Cooper's infotainment system, based on BMW iDrive, offered multiple control methods but suffered from usability issues. The physical controls were hard to access, and the touchscreen's small buttons were challenging to use. While voice controls worked reasonably well, the system sometimes behaved unpredictably. The car featured wireless charging, Apple CarPlay, and a Harman Kardon audio system, but Android Auto was absent. The Parking Assistant was a useful addition, given the car's vulnerable wheel design.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra came with a standard touchscreen infotainment system, with screen sizes varying by trim. The Limited trim included wireless charging and a premium Infinity sound system, with the Ultimate Package adding an 8-inch screen and navigation. The system was user-friendly, with shortcut buttons and knobs for easy access. The voice recognition system was competent, and the Infinity sound system impressed with its audio quality.

The 2019 MINI Cooper offered basic safety features, including eight airbags, a reversing camera, and an Active Driving Assistant with forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking. However, it lacked blind-spot monitoring and lane-keeping assist. The IIHS rated it as a Top Safety Pick in 2018, but it lost this status in 2019. The NHTSA gave it a 4-star overall rating, with a concerning 3-star rating for rear seat protection in side impacts.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra featured Hyundai Smart Sense as standard, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Elantra earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS with LED headlights and a 4-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though rear-door intrusion was noted in side-impact tests.