2022 MINI Cooper vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, part of the W213 generation, was a testament to the brand's "sensual purity" design philosophy. It moved away from the sharper lines of its predecessor to embrace a more fluid and curvier aesthetic, reminiscent of the S-Class and C-Class models. The E-Class featured a slightly edgier front with squinted headlights and an inverted trapezoid grille, while the rear design echoed the W212 with horizontal taillights. Despite the absence of the classic standing hood ornament, the E-Class maintained its elegant and reserved appearance, especially in its AMG models, which boasted a more aggressive look with vertical grille slats and quad exhaust tips. Inside, the E-Class was a luxurious haven, with rich woods, aluminum, and carbon fibre adorning the cabin. The dual 12-inch screens provided a modern touch, and the new steering wheels with touch-sensitive controls added to the car's futuristic feel.

In contrast, the 2022 MINI Cooper retained its iconic charm while embracing modern updates. The MINI's design was a nod to its heritage, with a playful and distinctive look that was unmistakably MINI. The 2022 model received refreshed bumpers, a new grille, and standard LED headlights, along with new paint colours and wheel designs. Inside, the MINI Convertible offered a retro vibe with modern technology, including a new steering wheel and an updated infotainment system with an 8.8-inch touchscreen. The cabin was customizable with various colours and materials, allowing owners to personalize their MINI experience. However, the emphasis on design over function meant limited rear seat space and storage, making it more suitable for those who prioritize style and fun over practicality.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class introduced significant changes under the hood, with the E450 model transitioning to a hybrid powertrain featuring a 3.0-litre inline-six engine. This setup delivered 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, with an additional boost from a 48-volt electrical system. The AMG E53 model took performance up a notch with a second turbo, producing 429 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque. The AMG E63 S, with its 4.0-litre V8 engine, was the pinnacle of performance, offering 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. Despite its power, the E-Class maintained a comfortable ride, thanks to its variable-rate air suspension and rear-biased all-wheel drive. Fuel efficiency varied across models, with the E450 4Matic achieving 9.2 L/100 km combined.

The 2022 MINI Cooper offered a different driving experience, with the base model featuring a 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine producing 134 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque. The Cooper S variant, with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, delivered 189 hp and 206 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to reach 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds. The JCW models pushed performance further with 235 hp and 228 lb-ft of torque. The MINI Convertible was front-wheel drive, with a choice between a six-speed manual and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. While the MINI provided a fun and engaging drive, it lacked the precision and refinement of the E-Class, with steering and brake feel that could be improved. Fuel efficiency for the Cooper S was rated at 8.1 L/100 km combined, though real-world testing showed slightly higher consumption.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered a spacious and luxurious interior, accommodating four adults comfortably. The sedan provided 540 litres of trunk space, while the wagon offered up to 1,820 litres with seats folded. The E-Class Coupe and Convertible had less rear seat space, but the wagon's stowable rear-facing jump seat added versatility. The redesigned infotainment system and dual screens enhanced usability, though mastering the car's features required some learning.

In contrast, the 2022 MINI Cooper prioritized style over practicality. The Convertible's rear seats were cramped, suitable only for extra luggage space. The trunk offered just 147 litres, accessible through a bottom-hinged lid. Interior storage was limited, with the infotainment controls consuming valuable space. While the MINI's compact size was expected, those needing more room could opt for other MINI models like the Clubman or Countryman.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured the advanced MBUX infotainment system, with a touchscreen interface and natural voice processing. The system offered gesture controls, live camera feeds, and a range of extras like massaging seats and ambient lighting. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were not wireless, the E-Class included a wireless phone charger and various connected services. Optional driving assists provided semi-autonomous capabilities, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2022 MINI Cooper introduced the MINI Connected infotainment system with an 8.8-inch touchscreen. The system supported Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM, with navigation and a Harman Kardon sound system available. The digital instrument cluster and head-up display added modern touches, though the screens could wash out in direct sunlight. The Harman Kardon system delivered impressive sound quality, even with the top down.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was a leader in safety, with a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS. It featured innovative safety technologies like Pre-Safe Sound and side bolster inflation during collisions. Standard safety features included forward automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, with additional driver-assist options available.

The 2022 MINI Cooper benefited from its increased size, offering better protection in collisions. While crash-test ratings were unavailable, the MINI Convertible included standard Driving Assistant technology with forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking. Adaptive cruise control was optional, though blind-spot monitoring was not available, posing a challenge with the top raised.