2022 MINI Cooper vs 2021 Mazda MAZDA3

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3, following its 2019 redesign, continued to impress with its dramatic yet sophisticated styling. The sedan version, which was tested, offered a conservative yet eye-catching design, while the hatchback variant, known as the Mazda3 Sport, presented a more aggressive stance. The 2.5 Turbo model, available in both body styles, came with all-wheel drive and a range of interior options, including luxurious leather finishes. The interior of the Mazda3 Turbo was noted for its high-quality materials and attention to detail, with a focus on creating a premium experience for the driver.

In contrast, the 2022 MINI Cooper maintained its iconic design while incorporating modern updates. The refreshed model featured new bumpers, a redesigned grille, and standard LED headlights, along with new paint colours and wheel designs. The MINI Convertible, in particular, exuded personality with its retro-modern interior and customizable options. However, the design choices sometimes compromised functionality, with limited rear seat space and storage. Despite these limitations, the MINI Convertible promised a fun driving experience, especially with the top down, offering a unique open-air feel.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 Turbo was powered by a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering up to 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque with premium fuel. This engine was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and Mazda's i-Activ AWD system, enhancing the car's corner-exit capability. The Turbo model's performance was transformative, offering smooth and predictable power delivery, especially in Sport mode. The Mazda3 Turbo's dynamic tuning and improved steering feel made it a joy to drive, with a focus on delivering maximum driving pleasure.

The 2022 MINI Cooper offered a choice between a turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine with 134 horsepower and a more powerful 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine in the Cooper S, producing 189 horsepower. The Cooper S, equipped with a manual transmission, provided a sporty driving experience, though it lacked the precision of a true sports car. The MINI Convertible's handling was enjoyable, but the steering response and brake feel were less satisfying. The JCW models offered even more power, but the test car's tires and suspension limited its performance potential.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3's interior was lined with leather and featured heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, creating a luxurious atmosphere. However, the lack of ventilation for the front seats and limited rear-seat accommodations detracted from its premium status. Trunk space was competitive, with 374 litres available in the sedan and significantly more in the hatchback version.

The 2022 MINI Cooper Convertible prioritized form over function, with comfortable front seats but nearly unusable rear seats. The trunk offered just 147 litres of space, accessible through a bottom-hinged lid. Interior storage was limited, and the placement of infotainment controls on the centre console consumed valuable space. While the MINI's design was charming, it sacrificed practicality for style.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system with an 8.8-inch display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. However, the lack of a touchscreen and subpar voice-recognition technology were notable drawbacks. The system was paired with a 12-speaker Bose audio system, which delivered impressive sound quality. The Premium Package included a head-up display, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2022 MINI Cooper introduced a new MINI Connected infotainment system with an 8.8-inch touchscreen and LED lighting. The system offered Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM, with navigation and a Harman Kardon sound system available as options. The digital instrument cluster and head-up display added to the tech-savvy feel, though the screens occasionally struggled with direct sunlight.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 boasted a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS), designed to support rather than replace the driver. Features included adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, a surround-view camera, and Traffic Jam Assist. The Mazda3 excelled in safety ratings, earning top marks from both the NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2022 MINI Cooper Convertible benefited from its increased size, offering better protection in collisions. However, it lacked crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS. The MINI came with standard Driving Assistant technology, including forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking. Adaptive cruise control was optional, but the absence of blind-spot monitoring was a notable omission.