2020 Subaru WRX vs 2020 MINI Cooper

The 2020 MINI Cooper was a distinctive presence on the road, with its unique styling that included wide-eyed LED headlights and a grinning front grille. Its vibrant colour options and Union Jack taillights added to its charm, making it a favourite among enthusiasts. Despite its bold design, the Cooper managed to avoid being gaudy, instead exuding a sense of charm that invited admiration. Over the years, the MINI Cooper evolved from its original two-door hardtop to include a convertible and a four-door variant, eventually introducing the all-electric SE trim. The SE maintained much of the Cooper S's design, with the key difference being its slightly higher stance to accommodate the battery cells. Inside, the MINI Cooper's design was dominated by circular elements, from the speakers to the infotainment system, providing a premium feel unmatched in its size category.

The 2020 Subaru WRX, originally a performance variant of the Subaru Impreza, had evolved into its own model by 2015. It featured a wider stance, a lower front splitter, and a rear deck spoiler, making it the most aggressively styled vehicle in Subaru's lineup. Despite its sporty appearance, the non-STI version could be considered a sleeper, with its performance capabilities surprising those unfamiliar with the WRX. The WRX was available in several trims, each offering a range of features from manual transmissions and alloy wheels to leather upholstery and advanced infotainment systems. The STI version took the performance and styling even further with additional aerodynamic components and a more powerful engine.

The 2020 MINI Cooper was renowned for its nimble quickness and ability to carve corners, a legacy dating back to its racing days in the 1960s. The Cooper SE, with its 181-horsepower electric motor and 199 pound-feet of torque, offered a performance experience similar to the Cooper S, which boasted a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine producing 189 hp and 207 lb-ft. The SE's electric motor provided immediate torque delivery, making it feel just as quick as its gas-powered counterpart. Despite a weight penalty due to its battery, the SE maintained a low centre of gravity, ensuring a planted feel in corners. The SE featured regenerative braking, which some drivers appreciated for its one-pedal driving experience. Gas-powered Coopers offered a choice between a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic and an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the SE used a single-speed gearbox.

The 2020 Subaru WRX was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-litre boxer-four engine, delivering 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Power was sent to all four wheels through a standard six-speed manual transmission, with an optional CVT available. The WRX's AWD system varied based on transmission choice, with the manual offering a 50:50 torque distribution and the CVT providing a 45:55 split. The manual transmission was praised for its precise feedback and smooth clutch pedal, making it a joy to drive. The WRX's power delivery was impressive, with minimal turbo lag and excellent cornering capabilities. The STI version featured a more powerful 2.5-litre engine, producing 310 hp and 290 lb-ft, along with Brembo brakes and a stiffer suspension for enhanced performance.

The 2020 MINI Cooper, while not ideal for carpooling or road trips, offered good front-seat space and a sense of openness thanks to its large windows. The backseat was small, best suited for children, and cargo space was limited, with the two-door Cooper providing just 246 litres. The four-door variant offered a more competitive 371 litres, while the convertible had only 161 litres. Despite its compact size, the Cooper was thoughtfully designed, with features like two-zone automatic air conditioning and high-quality materials.

The 2020 Subaru WRX's sedan layout provided excellent visibility, with large windows and a straightforward dash layout. The cabin offered ample first-row seating space and adequate rear-seat space for adults on short trips. The WRX's 340 litres of cargo space was modest compared to other compact sedans but comparable to other performance-oriented vehicles. The interior was practical, with easy-to-use controls and plenty of storage compartments.

The 2020 MINI Cooper SE featured an "eDrive" driver-information display that moved with the steering wheel adjustments, displaying critical information like speed and remaining range. The SE's 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system included Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, and Apple CarPlay, with an 8.8-inch screen available on higher trims. The SE Premier+ trim also offered a wireless charging pad and a head-up display.

The 2020 Subaru WRX came standard with a 6.5-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 7-inch option available. The Starlink system was user-friendly and included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The WRX also featured a digital display in the instrument panel and an additional information screen atop the dash, providing key driver information in multiple locations.

The 2020 MINI Cooper SE lacked many advanced safety features, offering only front and rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera. Forward-collision warning was standard, but automatic emergency braking was unavailable. The IIHS rated the MINI Cooper highly, with "Good" scores in all crash tests.

The 2020 Subaru WRX came standard with a full array of airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system. The optional EyeSight suite included features like forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control. The WRX earned top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, making it a 2020 IIHS Top Safety Pick.