2022 MINI Cooper vs 2021 Toyota Corolla

The 2021 Toyota Corolla, particularly in its SE and XSE trims, was considered one of the most attractive iterations of the model in recent history. These trims featured sport-design bumpers, a mesh grille insert, a body kit, and 18-inch aluminum wheels, which enhanced its visual appeal. The Celestite metallic paint added a beautiful blue undertone, making the Corolla genuinely appealing. However, some design elements, like the hood shut line and the over-styled rear bumper, detracted from its overall aesthetic. The Corolla L, LE, or XLE offered a more subdued appearance, while the Corolla Hybrid provided an affordable path to better fuel efficiency. The Corolla SE and XSE were the sporty versions, with a more powerful engine and different transmissions, while the Apex Edition offered further performance tuning. The interior of the Corolla XSE was a significant improvement over previous models, featuring soft leatherette, padded door panels, and a minimalist design, though it lacked practical storage solutions.

In contrast, the 2022 MINI Cooper retained its iconic design, exuding personality and charm. The model had grown over the years, expanding its lineup to include various body styles. The 2022 refresh brought restyled bumpers, a new grille, standard LED headlights, and new paint colours. The interior featured a new steering wheel and a next-generation infotainment system with a standard 8.8-inch touchscreen display. The MINI Convertible, while stylish, had awkward proportions, and the new grille accentuated its overbite. Inside, the MINI Convertible maintained its retro-modern feel, with a wide range of customization options. The convertible top added a unique open-air experience, but the emphasis on design over function resulted in a cluttered interior. The Cooper S specification offered a relatively tame driving experience, with pricing just under $50,000, while the John Cooper Works model could exceed $60,000.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla SE and XSE models were equipped with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. The Dynamic Shift CVT, with paddle shifters and a Sport driving mode, provided a smooth driving experience, though a six-speed manual gearbox was also available. The Corolla's TNGA platform contributed to its low centre of gravity and enjoyable driving dynamics. The XSE demonstrated predictable handling characteristics, making it a competent compact car. Fuel efficiency was rated at 7.0 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with our test averaging 7.6 L/100 km.

The 2022 MINI Cooper offered a turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine with 134 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, achieving 100 km/h in 8.7 seconds. The Cooper S featured a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 189 hp and 206 lb-ft of torque, 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 Cooper S test car had a manual transmission, providing a spirited driving experience. Fuel efficiency was rated at 8.1 litres per 100 kilometres, with our test averaging 8.7 L/100 km. The JCW models offered a more thrilling experience with 235 hp and 228 lb-ft of torque. However, the MINI's steering response and brake pedal feel were disappointing, and the tires struggled on curves and corners.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla XSE offered numerous interior upgrades, including SofTex leatherette seats, heated rear seats, and an eight-way power driver's seat. The front seats provided good support, while the rear seats were comfortable but lacked headroom and legroom. The trunk offered 371 litres of cargo space, with no handle on the inside of the trunk lid.

The 2022 MINI Cooper Convertible prioritized form over function, with comfortable front seats but essentially useless rear seats. The trunk measured just 147 litres, accessible through a bottom-hinged lid. Cabin storage was limited, with the infotainment system's controls consuming valuable space. While the MINI's practicality was limited, other models in the lineup offered more passenger and cargo space.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla featured an impressive infotainment package, including Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth as standard. The Corolla SE had an 8-inch touchscreen, while the XSE offered additional features like SiriusXM and navigation. The system was user-friendly, with physical knobs and buttons for easy access.

The 2022 MINI Cooper introduced a new MINI Connected infotainment system with an 8.8-inch touchscreen display. The system offered Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, and BMW-based connected services. Navigation, wireless charging, and a Harman Kardon sound system were available. The digital instrument cluster and head-up display were effective, even in a convertible.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The Corolla earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The 2021 model added rear side-impact airbags and a blind-spot warning system with rear cross-traffic alert.

The 2022 MINI Cooper featured newly standard Driving Assistant technology, including forward-collision warning and lane-departure warning. Adaptive cruise control was optional, but blind-spot monitoring was not available. The lack of crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS made it difficult to assess the MINI's safety performance.