2023 MINI Cooper vs 2022 Kia K5

The 2022 Kia K5 was available in Canada in four trim levels: LX, EX, GT-Line, and GT. Each model featured a turbocharged engine, with the LX, EX, and GT-Line offering standard all-wheel-drive (AWD), while the GT came with a front-wheel drive (FWD) drivetrain paired with an upgraded engine. The base prices ranged from $29,595 to $40,495, excluding the $1,800 destination charge. The K5 EX, priced at $32,995 in Canada, was noted for its sleek, luxury sports sedan appearance, continuing the design legacy of its predecessor, the Optima. The interior, with its Glacial White Pearl paint and Ash Blue synthetic leather, exuded an upscale feel, complemented by polished metallic accents and matte-finish fake wood trim. The K5's controls conveyed a sense of quality and solidity, enhancing the overall driving experience.

In contrast, the 2023 MINI Cooper, available as a two-door hatchback, four-door hatch, or two-door convertible, maintained its unique, playful design reminiscent of the original 1959 Mini. The third-generation model was larger than its predecessors but still compact compared to other vehicles like the Mazda MX-5. The MINI Cooper's design was characterized by its bug-eyed, bulldog-like appearance, with features such as multicolour roofs and loud colours. The JCW model, with its gradient paint effect and 18-inch wheels, resembled a life-size windup toy. Inside, the MINI Cooper featured Chesterfield leather seats and a distinctive dashboard design, with toggle switches and a long manual gear shifter. Despite its abstract interior, the MINI Cooper maintained high fit, finish, and quality standards.

The 2022 Kia K5 GT was the performance leader in its lineup, equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 290 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. However, it lacked AWD and was the most expensive and least efficient K5 variant. The standard K5 engine was a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder, delivering 180 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque, offering a more economical choice with AWD. The K5's powertrain provided linear power delivery, and the Drive Mode Select allowed customization of driving dynamics. During testing, the K5's 1.6-litre engine proved capable, though not overly powerful, with a fuel consumption of 8.1 L/100 km. The K5's ride quality was affected by road noise and suspension limitations, but it offered excellent outward visibility and responsive steering.

The 2023 MINI Cooper JCW was the quickest in its lineup, featuring a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four engine with 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The engine, shared with certain BMW models, provided smooth revving and minimal turbo lag. The six-speed manual transmission had an abrupt clutch take-up, requiring precise throttle application, while the eight-speed automatic offered engaging shifts. The base MINI Cooper models had a 1.5-litre inline-three turbo engine with 134 hp, while the Cooper S models featured a detuned version of the JCW engine. The MINI Cooper's fuel economy varied, with the JCW manual rated at 10.7/7.5/9.3 L/100 km. The electric MINI Cooper SE offered 183 kilometres of range. The JCW's handling was enjoyable, though not as reactive as advertised, and the ride was firm, with impressive brakes.

The 2022 Kia K5 offered comfort with features like dual-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The low-slung design made entry and exit challenging, but the front seats were comfortable, and the rear seats provided ample space. The K5's controls were logically laid out, blending style with utility. Storage space was generous, with a 434-litre trunk expandable by folding the rear seats. However, the trunk lacked an interior handle for closing.

The 2023 MINI Cooper provided good outward visibility and ample front seat space, but the rear bench in the two-door model was cramped, and the cargo hold was limited to 254 litres. The four-door model offered more cargo space, while the convertible had unique features like a tailgate and roof rails. The MINI's instrument panel had a matte finish, and the infotainment system used a combination of touchscreen and buttons. The dashboard's glowing ring added a playful touch, responding to various controls.

The 2022 Kia K5 featured two infotainment systems: an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for the LX and EX trims, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen for the GT-Line and GT trims, requiring a cable for smartphone integration. The larger system included satellite radio, Kia Connect services, and ambient noise tracks. A wireless smartphone charger was standard on most trims, and the GT trim offered a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The K5's voice recognition was limited, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto preferable.

The 2023 MINI Cooper came with an 8.8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM satellite radio, and connected apps. The Cooper S models added features like a panoramic moonroof and heated seats. Wireless phone charging and a head-up display were available on higher trims. The infotainment system used older BMW iDrive software, lacking the latest features. The MINI Cooper included unique features like an Openometer and playful sounds and chimes.

The 2022 Kia K5 excelled in safety, offering features like forward-collision-avoidance assist, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Additional features included Safe Exit Assist, navigation-based adaptive cruise control, and Highway Driving Assist. The K5 achieved a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 MINI Cooper came standard with eight airbags, rear parking sensors, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. However, it lacked some advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control was available on certain models. The NHTSA had not rated the 2023 MINI Cooper, but the IIHS had previously given the structurally identical 2014 model high ratings.