2022 MINI Cooper vs 2021 Toyota Camry

The 2021 Toyota Camry aimed to break away from its traditionally bland image by incorporating more dynamic styling elements. The flared wheel arches and sleek headlights and taillights contributed to a wider visual stance. However, the SE and XSE trims were criticized for their excessive use of fake vents, adding unnecessary visual clutter. The LE and XLE trims featured a cleaner, albeit still large, grille. The interior mirrored the exterior's chaotic design, with a mix of contrasting materials and a lack of cohesive design theme, resulting in a somewhat low-rent feel.

In contrast, the 2022 MINI Cooper retained its iconic charm while embracing modern updates. The refreshed model featured restyled bumpers, a new grille, and standard LED headlights, maintaining its distinctive MINI identity. The interior combined retro aesthetics with modern technology, offering a customizable experience through various colours and materials. Despite its playful design, the MINI Convertible's proportions remained awkward, and the new grille accentuated its overbite. The interior was cluttered, prioritizing form over function, but still managed to deliver a unique driving experience.

The 2021 Toyota Camry offered a range of powertrains, starting with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque in FWD, slightly reduced in AWD configurations. The XSE trim's dual-exhaust system increased output to 206 hp and 186 lb-ft with FWD. A 3.5-litre V6 engine was available, delivering 301 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Camry Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre engine with electric assist for a total of 208 hp. The Camry's chassis struck a balance between handling and ride quality, offering a surprisingly engaging driving experience.

The 2022 MINI Cooper featured a turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine with 134 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in 8.7 seconds. The Cooper S variant boasted a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 189 hp and 206 lb-ft, reaching 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds. Both engines offered a choice between a six-speed manual and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The JCW models provided a more thrilling experience with 235 hp and 228 lb-ft, but the MINI's steering and brake feel were less precise, reducing driving satisfaction.

The 2021 Toyota Camry provided generous rear headroom and legroom, though front space was slightly compromised. The front seats were adjustable and comfortable, with excellent visibility. Cargo space measured 428 litres, average for its class but less than the Honda Accord. In-cabin storage was limited, with small cupholders and door bottle holders. The Camry featured analog controls for essential functions, enhancing usability, though some controls were awkwardly placed.

The 2022 MINI Cooper prioritized form over function, with comfortable front seats but nearly unusable rear seats. The trunk offered just 147 litres of space, accessible via a bottom-hinged lid. Cabin storage was minimal, with infotainment controls consuming valuable space. While practicality was limited, MINI offered other models for those needing more room. The Convertible's design focused on style, sacrificing functionality.

The 2021 Toyota Camry came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a nine-speaker JBL audio system. A 10-inch head-up display was available on XSE and XLE trims. The infotainment system was functional but lacked standout features, with plain graphics and easy-to-navigate menus.

The 2022 MINI Cooper introduced a new MINI Connected infotainment system with an 8.8-inch touchscreen, LED lighting, and customizable graphics. It offered Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, SiriusXM, and BMW-based connected services. Navigation, wireless charging, and a Harman Kardon sound system were optional. The system, based on BMW's iDrive, paired with a digital instrument cluster, performed well even in convertible conditions. A head-up display was available, visible with polarized sunglasses, and the Harman Kardon system delivered impressive sound quality.

The 2021 Toyota Camry earned top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA. It featured the TSS 2.5+ package with adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and more. The Rear Seat Reminder was standard, and blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on higher trims.

The 2022 MINI Cooper lacked crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS but included standard Driving Assistant technology with forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. Adaptive cruise control was optional, but blind-spot monitoring was unavailable, posing a challenge with the top raised. The lane-departure warning system was effective, providing subtle steering wheel vibrations.