2022 MINI Cooper vs 2021 Lexus IS

The 2021 Lexus IS was a testament to the art of automotive design, reflecting a blend of athleticism and elegance. Its stance and proportions suggested motion even when stationary, with a fast roofline that balanced between a coupe-like dome and a fastback. The signature spindle grille, filled with diamond mesh, and narrow headlights gave the IS a bold, assertive look. Inside, the dashboard was simple yet stylish, with a retro hi-fi vibe that matched the exterior's modern aesthetic. However, the analog clock seemed outdated amidst the otherwise contemporary design.

In contrast, the 2022 MINI Cooper retained its iconic charm while embracing modern updates. Despite its growth over the years, the MINI Cooper continued to exude personality, especially in its refreshed 2022 form. The new grille and LED headlights added a touch of modernity, while the Union Jack taillights maintained its British heritage. Inside, the MINI Convertible offered a retro feel with modern technology, allowing for personalization through various colours and materials. However, the design prioritized form over function, resulting in a cluttered interior and awkward proportions.

The 2021 Lexus IS was engineered for performance, debuting the "Lexus Driving Signature" for a seamless driving experience. The IS 300 RWD featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine with 241 horsepower, while the AWD version had a 3.5-litre V6 producing 260 hp. The IS 350, available only with AWD in Canada, offered 311 hp. The IS boasted a top speed of 230 km/h, with acceleration from 0 to 60 mph ranging from 6.9 seconds for the IS 300 RWD to 5.6 seconds for the IS 350 RWD. Fuel efficiency varied, with the IS 300 RWD achieving 11.0 L/100 km in the city and 7.6 on the highway.

The 2022 MINI Cooper offered a lively driving experience with its turbocharged engines. The base model had a 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine producing 134 hp, while the Cooper S featured a 2.0-litre four-cylinder with 189 hp. The JCW models took it further with 235 hp. The MINI Convertible, equipped with a manual transmission, provided a fun drive, though it lacked the precision of a true sports car. Fuel efficiency was decent, with the Cooper S averaging 8.7 L/100 km. However, the steering and brake feel were less satisfying, and the car's handling was not as sharp as expected.

The 2021 Lexus IS prioritized driver comfort and functionality, offering a well-designed driver position and supportive seats. The F Sport trim's bolstered seats were standard in IS 350 models, featuring heating and ventilation. The IS used NuLuxe synthetic upholstery, which was eco-friendly and easy to maintain. Storage space was ample, with various compartments and a 305.8-litre trunk. The rear seats were comfortable for two passengers, though legroom was limited.

The 2022 MINI Cooper Convertible focused on style over practicality. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seats were nearly unusable, even for children. The trunk offered just 147 litres of space, accessible through a bottom-hinged lid. Interior storage was limited, with the infotainment controls taking up valuable space. While the MINI's compact size was expected, those needing more room could opt for other MINI models with better practicality.

The 2021 Lexus IS featured a touchscreen infotainment system compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It included Lexus's connected services, with free trial periods for features like Safety Connect and Service Connect. The optional Mark Levinson audio system provided exceptional sound quality, appealing to audiophiles.

The 2022 MINI Cooper introduced a new MINI Connected infotainment system with an 8.8-inch touchscreen. It offered Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, and BMW-based connected services. The system was user-friendly, with customizable widgets and a digital instrument cluster. The optional Harman Kardon sound system delivered impressive audio quality, though not as stunning as the Lexus's system.

The 2021 Lexus IS received top safety ratings, with a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features, including pre-collision systems, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

The 2022 MINI Cooper lacked crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, but it included standard Driving Assistant technology with features like forward-collision warning and lane-departure warning. Adaptive cruise control was available, though blind-spot monitoring was absent, which was a drawback given the visibility challenges with the top raised.