2022 MINI Cooper vs 2023 Hyundai Elantra

The 2022 MINI Cooper, with its refreshed styling, continued to exude the brand's signature personality, albeit with some modern updates. The model featured restyled bumpers, a new grille, and standard LED headlights, complemented by the iconic Union Jack taillights. Despite these updates, the MINI Convertible's proportions remained somewhat awkward, with the new grille drawing attention to its overbite. Inside, the MINI maintained its retro charm, enhanced by modern technology like a standard 8.8-inch touchscreen display and digital instrumentation. The Convertible's open-air experience was unique, with the windshield positioned far forward, offering an unparalleled sense of openness. However, the emphasis on design over function resulted in a cluttered interior, especially when heavily customized.

In contrast, the 2023 Hyundai Elantra offered a more balanced approach between style and practicality. The Elantra's exterior design was somewhat controversial, but its interior was undeniably upscale for its class. The test vehicle featured light grey leather seats and ambient lighting, creating a sophisticated atmosphere. The Elantra Luxury model provided a comfortable driving experience with dual-zone automatic climate control and heated front seats. However, the rear seats were less accommodating, with a reclined backrest and hard plastic panels on the front seatbacks. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Elantra's interior space and trunk capacity of 402 litres made it a practical choice for families.

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 with 189 hp and 206 lb-ft of torque, achieving 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds. The MINI Convertible was front-wheel drive, with a choice between a six-speed manual and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Despite its sporty nature, the Cooper S was not a true sports car, with some handling quirks and a less engaging driving experience compared to earlier models.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra Luxury, while not as performance-oriented, offered a surprisingly peppy driving experience. Its 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine produced 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Elantra's driving dynamics were commendable, with a compliant ride and quiet cabin. It averaged 7.1 L/100 km during testing, close to its official rating of 6.7 L/100 km. While not as fun to drive as the Elantra N Line or Elantra N, the Luxury model provided consistent handling and a comfortable ride, making it a reliable choice for everyday driving.

The 2022 MINI Cooper Convertible prioritized form over function, with comfortable front seats but nearly unusable rear seats. The trunk offered just 147 litres of space, accessible through a bottom-hinged lid. Interior storage was limited, with controls placed in hard-to-reach areas. While the MINI's compact size was expected, it lacked practicality compared to other models in the lineup, such as the 4-Door Hardtop, Clubman, and Countryman.

In contrast, the 2023 Hyundai Elantra excelled in practicality, offering ample space for a family of four. The test vehicle featured proximity-sensing keyless entry and a comfortable driver's seat with manual adjustments. The Elantra's trunk provided 402 litres of cargo space, with a 60/40-split folding back seat for added utility. While the rear seats were less comfortable, the Elantra's overall interior space and features made it a practical choice for families.

The 2022 MINI Cooper introduced a new MINI Connected infotainment system with a standard 8.8-inch touchscreen display. The system offered Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, SiriusXM, and BMW-based connected services. A digital instrument cluster and optional head-up display were also available. The Harman Kardon sound system provided impressive sound quality, overcoming ambient noise even with the top down.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra expanded the availability of its 10.25-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment displays. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and a wireless charging pad. The system was easy to use, though voice recognition had some limitations. The Elantra Luxury model featured a Bose premium audio system, but its sound quality was not as impressive as some competitors. Digital Key technology allowed a compatible smartphone to function as the vehicle's key.

The 2022 MINI Cooper Convertible benefited from its increased size, offering better protection in collisions. However, it lacked crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. Adaptive cruise control was optional, but blind-spot monitoring was not available.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra excelled in safety, with a comprehensive package of standard features, including automatic high-beam headlights, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The Elantra Luxury added blind-spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, and adaptive cruise control with Highway Driving Assist. The Elantra earned a Top Safety Pick rating from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA.