2022 MINI Cooper vs 2021 Toyota Camry

Back in 2021, the Toyota Camry sought to redefine its image, moving away from the bland aesthetics that had often categorized its predecessors. This shift was marked by an infusion of trendy styling details reminiscent of recent Toyota models. The redesign featured elements like flared wheel arches and thin headlights and taillights, which worked together to give the car a broader and more assertive presence on the road. However, trims like the SE, XSE, or TRD were heavily adorned with fake vents, adding unnecessary visual clutter, whereas the LE and XLE trims boasted a cleaner, albeit still massive, grille. Regardless, the Camry shared the robust TNGA-K platform with its larger Avalon sedan sibling and the RAV4 SUV.

Toyota further refreshed the front fascia styling for most trims that year, with the TRD performance model receiving unique enhancements such as a larger rear spoiler. The Nightshade Edition carried over from 2020 included blacked-out exterior trim and wheels, especially striking on the SE trim. Base LE models came equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, while higher trims offered 18-inch or 19-inch options.

Inside, the Camry's cabin followed the same chaotic design, echoing the exterior's inconsistency. The SE Nightshade Edition’s dashboard felt pieced together from different vehicles, mixing various trims and materials—contrast stitching, piano black plastic, and faux carbon fiber elements—without a unifying theme. This eclectic approach unfortunately left the interior looking and feeling less premium.

In contrast, the 2022 MINI Cooper stuck to its roots, upholding the quirky charm that has defined the brand since its revival two decades earlier. Despite expanding its lineup with models like the Convertible, Clubman, and Countryman, the MINI retained its diminutive, playful personality. The 2022 refresh included restyled bumpers, a new grille, and standard LED headlights accompanied by Union Jack taillights. Additionally, fresh wheel designs and new paint colors such as Island Blue and Zesty Yellow joined the options.

The MINI Cooper's interior maintained its retro-modern aesthetic filled with customizable options. Dropping the top took just 18 seconds and added a unique open-air feel. Yet, the redesign didn't resolve all proportions, as the new grille accentuated the car’s overbite, especially in lighter colors. Still, whether you found it charming or not, the MINI's distinctive appeal was undeniable.

The inside looked and felt purely MINI, blending retro styling with modern touches. This included new materials, color choices, and a range of personalization options. Despite feeling slightly cluttered, the personality overflowed.

For 2021, the Toyota Camry offered several powertrain choices. The base engine was a 2.5-liter four-cylinder tagged "Dynamic Force," delivering 203 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque with FWD, and slightly less with AWD. XSE models boasted a dual-exhaust system, boosting output to 206 hp for FWD. An eight-speed automatic transmission was standard across these configurations.

Toyota also provided a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6, producing 301 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with the same eight-speed auto. A Hybrid variant combined the 2.5-liter four-cylinder with electric assistance for a total of 208 hp.

Our SE Nightshade Edition test model came with the base four-cylinder and AWD, proving surprisingly spirited with an eager-to-rev engine. The chassis struck a commendable balance between handling and ride comfort, offering a responsive and precise steering experience. Despite not being as sharp as competitors like the Honda Accord, the 2021 Camry rewarded those who enjoyed driving, a stark contrast to previous generations.

For those seeking more exhilaration, the TRD model integrated the V6 with performance-tuned suspension, bigger brakes, and optional summer tires for enhanced agility. The AWD system, borrowed from the RAV4, could send up to 50% of torque to the rear wheels, switching back to FWD when additional traction wasn't needed.

Meanwhile, the 2022 MINI Cooper catered to varying levels of thrill with two engine choices. The base model featured a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder producing 134 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque, taking over eight seconds to reach 60 mph. The Cooper S, with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, upped the game with 189 hp and 206 lb-ft, achieving 60 mph in under seven seconds. Both engines offered a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and were FWD.

Our Cooper S with the manual gearbox had ample torque for a lively driving experience, achieving 27.1 mpg on our testing loop. For enthusiasts, JCW models pushed performance further with a tuned 2.0-liter engine generating 235 hp and 228 lb-ft, paired with an eight-speed automatic, hitting 60 mph in just over six seconds.

Though not a sports car, the Cooper S provided a sporting feel with its broad torque band. Despite not having performance add-ons like summer tires or an adaptive suspension, our test model still delivered an enjoyable ride. However, its steering and braking left much to be desired, feeling imprecise and reducing overall driving satisfaction.

Rear passenger space in the 2021 Toyota Camry was generous for a midsize sedan, although front headroom and legroom were somewhat compromised. Nevertheless, the front seats offered enough adjustability for comfort, and visibility was excellent. Cargo space stood at 15.1 cubic feet, average for the class but notably less than the Honda Accord's 16.7 cubic feet. In-cabin storage was limited with small cupholders and door bottle holders, which was typical in sedans. Notably, Toyota used analog controls for critical functions, although the placement of some controls could be more ergonomic.

Conversely, the 2022 MINI Cooper Convertible focused heavily on form over function, especially evident in its rear seats, which were essentially unusable for anyone other than small children. This area was better suited for additional luggage, with the trunk offering a mere 5.2 cubic feet, accessible via an unconventional bottom-hinged lid. Storage within the cabin was also minimal because the center console housed the infotainment controls, consuming valuable space.

Still, considering the MINI's namesake, it wasn’t expected to offer cavernous interior space. For those needing more practicality, the Mini lineup included models like the Hardtop 4 Door, Clubman, and Countryman, which offered better passenger and cargo room but without the open-air experience of the Convertible.

The 2021 Toyota Camry came equipped with a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, Bluetooth, Siri Eyes Free, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Higher trims upgraded to a 9-inch touchscreen, WiFi capability, navigation, and a nine-speaker JBL audio system. A 10-inch head-up display was available on XSE and XLE trims. The system was functional and easy-to-use, though the graphics were bland. A single USB media port, two USB charge ports, and a 12-volt outlet served charging needs, regardless of trim level.

Meanwhile, the 2022 MINI Cooper introduced a fresh MINI Connected infotainment system with an 8.8-inch touchscreen set within the iconic dashboard ring illuminated by LED lighting. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa but not Android Auto. Standard features included SiriusXM satellite radio and BMW-based connected services. Additional options comprised navigation, wireless smartphone charging, and a Harman Kardon sound system. Digital instrumentation was also standard. Notably, the infotainment and instrument screens performed well even in direct sunlight, a common challenge in convertibles.

The available head-up display appeared on a plastic panel rather than the windshield, remaining visible even with polarized sunglasses. The Harman Kardon sound system provided excellent audio quality, overcoming road and wind noise even with the top down.

The 2021 Toyota Camry achieved impressive safety accolades, including a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The car came with the new TSS 2.5+ package for 2021, featuring adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, automatic high beams, and traffic-sign recognition. Enhancements included improved adaptive cruise control and forward-collision warning systems, as well as a standard Rear Seat Reminder to prevent children or pets from being left unattended.

Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on higher trims and optional on others, providing comprehensive safety coverage.

Unfortunately for the 2022 MINI Cooper Convertible, neither the NHTSA nor the IIHS had published crash-test ratings. However, the model came with newly standard Driving Assistant technology, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. Adaptive cruise control, available for automatic transmission models, could bring the car to a complete stop. Notably absent were blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, which would have been useful given the visibility issues when the top was raised.