2021 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2020 MINI Cooper

The 2020 MINI Cooper was a standout on the road, with its distinctive design that was unmistakably MINI. Its wide-eyed LED-ringed headlights and grinning front grille exuded charm, while vibrant colour options and Union Jack taillights added to its appeal. Despite its unique styling, the Cooper managed to avoid being gaudy, instead offering a charismatic presence that drew admiration. Initially available as a two-door hardtop, the Cooper expanded its lineup to include a convertible and a four-door variant, eventually introducing the all-electric SE trim. The SE maintained the classic Cooper design, with slight modifications to accommodate its battery, such as a higher ride height and unique EV-exclusive wheels. Inside, the Cooper's circular-themed design, premium materials, and refined feel set it apart from other cars in its class.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3, following its award-winning 2019 redesign, continued to impress with its dramatic yet sophisticated styling. The sedan version offered a more conservative look, while the hatchback, known as the Mazda3 Sport, presented a more aggressive stance. The 2.5 Turbo model, available in both body styles, featured all-wheel drive and a range of trim options, including a special 100th Anniversary edition. The interior of the Mazda3 Turbo was luxurious, with white leather upholstery and metallic accents, although it lacked some premium features like ventilated seats. Despite the use of hard plastics, the design was driver-focused, with an asymmetrical infotainment system and a cabin that revolved around the driver. The Mazda3 Turbo's interior quality and attention to detail supported Mazda's push into the premium market.

The 2020 MINI Cooper was renowned for its nimble performance, 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 spirited driving experience, comparable to the gas-powered Cooper S with its 189-horsepower 2.0-litre turbocharged engine. The SE's electric motor provided immediate torque delivery, making it feel quick off the line. The regenerative braking system, while aggressive, allowed for one-pedal driving, though it could be adjusted for less intensity. Despite the added weight of the battery, the SE maintained a low centre of gravity, ensuring a planted feel in corners. The SE used a single-speed gearbox, while gas-powered Coopers offered automatic transmissions, with a manual option returning in 2021.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 Turbo featured a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque with 93-octane fuel. The engine was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and Mazda's i-Activ AWD system, enhancing corner-exit capability. The turbocharged powertrain added minimal weight but significantly boosted performance, offering a smooth and predictable driving experience. The Sport mode adjusted transmission shifts and G-Vectoring Control Plus for improved handling. The Mazda3 Turbo's dynamic tuning and engine note, enhanced by the car's speakers, provided an exhilarating driving experience. Despite its sporty nature, the Mazda3 Turbo maintained a balance of performance and comfort, with an average fuel consumption of 11.5 litres per 100 kilometres during testing.

The 2020 MINI Cooper, while not ideal for large families or long road trips, offered good front-seat space and a spacious feel due to its large windows. The backseat was small, suitable for children, and cargo space was limited, with 246 litres in the two-door model and 371 litres in the four-door. The SE trim maintained the same interior space, with a maximum of 730 litres with the rear seats folded. Despite its compact size, the Cooper featured thoughtful design elements, such as two-zone automatic air conditioning and ergonomic controls, reflecting BMW's investment in the brand.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 Turbo's interior was luxurious, with leather upholstery and heated front seats, though it lacked some premium features like ventilated seats and rear-seat amenities. The driver-focused cabin offered a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, but the front passenger seat lacked power adjustment. In-cabin storage was adequate, and trunk space was competitive, with 374 litres in the sedan and up to 1,334 litres in the hatchback with the seats folded. The Mazda3 Turbo's interior design and quality supported its premium positioning.

The 2020 MINI Cooper SE featured an "eDrive" driver-information display, which moved with the steering wheel adjustments. The display provided information on speed, energy consumption, and remaining range, with a maximum range of 177 kilometres. The 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system included Bluetooth, navigation, and Apple CarPlay, with an 8.8-inch screen available on higher trims. The SE Premier+ trim added a wireless charging pad and a head-up display.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 Turbo's Mazda Connect infotainment system featured an 8.8-inch display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the lack of a touchscreen and poor voice-recognition technology were drawbacks. The system was paired with a 12-speaker Bose audio system, offering good sound quality, especially with FLAC files. The Premium Package included a head-up display, visible with polarized sunglasses, showing speed, speed limits, and safety technology status.

The 2020 MINI Cooper SE lacked advanced safety features, with only front and rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera included in the Premier+ package. 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 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 Turbo featured a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems, designed to support rather than replace the driver. The adaptive cruise control included stop-and-go capability, and the GT trim offered an Adaptive Front Lighting System. The Premium Package added a surround-view camera, parking sensors, and Traffic Jam Assist. The Mazda3 received top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, with a "Top Safety Pick+" designation.