2022 MINI Cooper vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2022 MINI Cooper continued to charm with its iconic design, reminiscent of the original MINI models, while embracing modern updates. Despite its growth over the years, the MINI retained its playful character, especially in the Cooper S and JCW variants. The 2022 refresh brought restyled bumpers, a new grille, and standard LED headlights, enhancing its distinctive look. The interior featured a new steering wheel and an upgraded infotainment system with a standard 8.8-inch touchscreen. However, the MINI Convertible's styling remained polarizing, with its proportions and grille design drawing mixed reactions. Inside, the retro-modern blend offered personalization options, but the emphasis on design over function resulted in a cluttered feel.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class exuded luxury and sophistication across its various body styles, including the coupe, convertible, sedan, and station wagon. The AMG E53 Cabriolet, in particular, showcased a blend of elegance and performance, with its matte-blue paint and AMG styling. Inside, the E-Class impressed with high-resolution digital displays, premium materials, and advanced technology. The cabin offered a luxurious experience, with features like heated seats, a neck-warming system, and a Burmester sound system. The E-Class Cabriolet provided a refined and comfortable ride, whether cruising along coastal highways or tackling mountain roads.

The 2022 MINI Cooper offered a range of engine options, starting with a turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine producing 134 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. This engine allowed the MINI to accelerate to 100 km/h in 8.7 seconds. For more spirited driving, the Cooper S featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine delivering 189 hp and 206 lb-ft of torque, achieving 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds. The JCW models took performance further with a tuned version of the Cooper S engine, generating 235 hp and 228 lb-ft of torque, reaching 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds. The MINI Convertible offered a choice between a six-speed manual and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive and various driving modes. However, the steering response and brake feel left room for improvement, and the ride quality varied depending on the road conditions.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet boasted a 3.0-litre turbo inline-6 engine with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology, producing 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain delivered robust performance, with a 0-100 km/h time of 4.6 seconds. The AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system ensured power was effectively transferred to the road. The E53 Cabriolet offered a dual personality, providing a quiet and comfortable ride for leisurely drives and transforming into a dynamic performer on twisty roads. The AMG-tuned air suspension and performance exhaust system enhanced the driving experience, while the optional 20-inch wheels and summer performance tires added grip and style.

The 2022 MINI Cooper Convertible prioritized form over function, with comfortable front seats but limited rear-seat usability. The rear seats were best suited for extra luggage space, as the trunk offered just 147 litres of cargo capacity. The cabin lacked storage space, and the infotainment controls on the centre console were hard to reach. While the MINI's compact size was expected, those seeking practicality could opt for other MINI models like the 4-Door Hardtop, Clubman, or Countryman.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet provided a true four-passenger convertible experience, with comfortable seating for adults in both the front and rear. The Aircap system reduced cabin turbulence, enhancing comfort with the top down. The E-Class Cabriolet focused on driver and front passenger comfort, offering heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a neck-warming system. The trunk provided 360 litres of cargo space with the top up, but this reduced significantly when the top was down. The multi-contour front seats with massage and the Air Balance interior fragrance system added to the luxurious experience.

The 2022 MINI Cooper featured the new MINI Connected infotainment system with an 8.8-inch touchscreen display. The system offered Apple CarPlay connectivity, Bluetooth, SiriusXM satellite radio, and BMW-based connected services. Navigation, wireless smartphone charging, and a Harman Kardon premium sound system were available options. The digital instrument cluster and head-up display provided additional information, although the screens occasionally washed out in direct sunlight. The Harman Kardon sound system impressed with its sound quality, even at highway speeds with the top down.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class excelled in digital instrumentation and infotainment with its MBUX system. Two 12.3-inch screens formed the foundation, offering high-resolution displays that remained clear in most lighting conditions. The system could be controlled via touchscreen, voice commands, or steering wheel touchpad buttons. MBUX included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and optional features like Wi-Fi service and augmented reality navigation. The Burmester surround-sound audio system delivered exceptional sound quality, and the head-up display provided additional driving information.

The 2022 MINI Cooper Convertible benefited from its increased size, offering better protection in collisions. However, crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS were unavailable. The MINI featured standard Driving Assistant technology, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. Adaptive cruise control was optional, but blind-spot monitoring and a digital rearview mirror were not available.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class came with standard safety features like forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The E-Class Cabriolet also had pop-up rollbars for rollover protection. Mercedes Pre Safe and Pre Safe Sound were standard, preparing the cabin and occupants for potential collisions. The optional Driver Assistance Package added advanced features like adaptive cruise control, lane-centring assistance, and evasive steering assist. The test car's adaptive cruise control and Active Steering Assist impressed with their performance.