2023 MINI Cooper vs 2022 Subaru WRX

The 2022 Subaru WRX presented a more understated design compared to its predecessors, with a subtle front end that featured a small hexagonal grille and sharp LED headlights. The car was 5 centimetres wider, and its side profile was less cluttered, although the black plastic cladding divided opinions. This cladding, however, was functional, improving airflow and aerodynamics, and nodding to the car's rally heritage. The rear of the WRX was marked by flared fenders, a large plastic bumper, and taillights designed to resemble illuminated magma. The overall look was smoother and more streamlined, though the cladding could be distracting on brightly coloured models like the Solar Orange test car. Inside, the WRX saw significant improvements with better fit and finish, featuring a D-shaped steering wheel, aluminum-alloy pedal covers, and carbon-fibre-pattern trim accents, making it feel more modern.

The 2023 MINI Cooper, available in various body styles, maintained its unique charm, reminiscent of the original 1959 Mini. Despite being larger than its predecessors due to safety regulations, it remained compact, with a design that was both playful and authentic. The two-door Cooper was described as a "bug-eyed little bulldog," with its tires stretched to the corners to maximize space. The 2023 model introduced a gradient paint effect, adding to its vibrant personality. Inside, the Cooper's interior was slightly more mature, featuring Chesterfield leather seats with diamond-patterned stitching. The dashboard's giant circle with an inset touchscreen resembled a ship's porthole, and the toggle switches added a retro touch. The fit and finish were high, and the manual gear shifter and clutch pedal provided a satisfying driving experience.

The 2022 Subaru WRX distinguished itself from the standard Impreza with a new 2.4-litre turbocharged Boxer engine, producing 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. While the power increase was modest, the WRX's all-wheel-drive system and choice between a six-speed manual or a CVT transmission offered versatility. The manual transmission was particularly praised for its precision and ease of use. The WRX's suspension, built on the Subaru Global Platform, provided a forgiving ride quality, even on rough roads, and the stabilizer bar's new mounting reduced body roll in corners.

The 2023 MINI Cooper JCW was the quickest in the lineup, with a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four engine delivering 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The engine, shared with some BMW models, was smooth and responsive, with minimal turbo lag. The six-speed manual transmission had an abrupt clutch take-up, making it ideal for learning manual driving, while the eight-speed automatic offered engaging shifts. The Cooper S models featured a detuned version of the JCW engine, while the base models had a 1.5-litre inline-three turbo engine. The electric MINI Cooper SE offered 183 kilometres of range. The JCW's handling was enjoyable, with flat cornering and impressive brakes, though the steering lacked immediacy, detracting from the promised "go-kart" experience.

The 2022 Subaru WRX offered practicality with a cargo capacity of 354 litres, expandable with the rear seat's 60/40 split-fold function. The sport seats were comfortable and supportive, available in various upholstery options. The standard all-wheel drive made it a compelling choice for those seeking a performance-focused sedan in the $30,000 to $40,000 range.

The 2023 MINI Cooper provided good outward visibility and ample front seat space, but the rear bench in the two-door model was cramped. Cargo space was limited, with the two-door model offering 254 litres, expandable to 962 litres with the seats folded. The four-door models offered slightly more space. Convertible models had unique features like a tailgate that folded down for easier access and roof rails that allowed the fabric section to slide back like a sunroof. The instrument panel's matte finish reduced glare, and the infotainment system's glowing ring added a playful touch.

The 2022 Subaru WRX featured an 11.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen in Sport-trim or higher models, offering a visually impressive interface. Physical controls for climate and audio functions complemented the touchscreen. However, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration was not seamless, with Android Auto only displaying on the top half of the screen. The base trim had a unique dual 7-inch display setup. An 11-speaker Harman Kardon stereo system was available on higher trims.

The 2023 MINI Cooper came standard with an 8.8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and other features like LED headlights and rain-sensing wipers. The infotainment system used older BMW iDrive software, lacking the slick interface of newer BMW models. The Cooper offered unique features like an Openometer and playful sounds and chimes. Higher trims added features like a panoramic moonroof and heated seats, while a heated steering wheel was optional.

The 2022 Subaru WRX offered the EyeSight suite of advanced driver assistance systems on CVT-equipped models, including features like automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. However, EyeSight was not available on manual transmission models. Blind-spot monitoring and other safety features were standard on higher trims. The Subaru Global Platform improved crash energy absorption, and the car came with seven airbags as standard.

The 2023 MINI Cooper included eight airbags, rear parking sensors, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. However, it lacked blind-spot monitoring and other advanced safety features. Adaptive cruise control was available on certain automatic transmission models. The MINI Cooper had not been rated by the NHTSA, and the IIHS last rated the structurally identical 2014 model, giving it high marks in most crash tests.