2022 Mazda 3 vs. 2022 Mini Cooper

The Mazda 3 and Mini Cooper are both popular compact cars that offer much value for the money. But when it comes to safety, reliability, and performance, which is better? Let's look at these two models and how they compare.

Design & Style

• Exterior Design

Both vehicles have a lot in common regarding the exterior design of the 2022 Mazda 3 and 2022 Mini Cooper. The most obvious similarity is their body style. Both cars are designed as compact four-door sedans with hatchback rear doors. They're virtually identical in dimensions and wheelbase length (the distance between the front wheels).

The overall appearance of these two vehicles is also similar: they both have rounded body lines that make them look sporty without being too boxy or bulky.

Lastly, each car's engine sits slightly behind the front axle for optimal weight distribution (and fuel efficiency).

• Interior Design

The Mazda 3's interior is attractive and well-designed, with a clean look that will appeal to most buyers. The dashboard features a floating design with a large centre screen that looks more like an iPad than most car infotainment systems. There are no buttons on the steering wheel; voice commands are used to control navigation and other functions. The seats feel comfortable even on long trips, and there's plenty of storage space throughout the cabin.

The Mini Cooper has adopted a more traditional interior design approach by including many physical buttons and touchscreen features. However, this means there is less space for larger touchscreens or screens built into the dash (though you can get one if you want). The seats are also made from cloth rather than leather or vinyl; this may be less comfortable than it sounds, though as they still feel quite soft after sitting in them for several hours at a time!

Technology & Safety

The Mazda 3 comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay, but the Cooper offers an 8-inch touchscreen with Android Auto compatibility. The Cooper also gets an optional head-up display that projects important information like speed and navigation instructions onto the windshield.

Both cars include automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control to help prevent collisions, and lane departure warning systems that can nudge you back into your own lane if you drift out of it while driving.

Performance

The Mazda 3's 2.0-liter naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine produces a maximum of 184 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. The Mini Cooper's 1.5L three-cylinder turbocharged engine produces 134 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque.

Both cars also come with a 6-speed manual transmission and an optional automatic transmission with six speeds in the Mini Cooper but only four speeds in the Mazda 3.

The Bottom Line

In a nutshell, the Mazda 3 is a better car than the Mini Cooper. It's roomier, more comfortable, and offers better safety features. Plus, it's hard to beat the Mazda's versatility if you're looking for a compact hatchback with four doors and a back seat that can be folded down to haul larger items. We also like its unique styling-it stands out from other hatches on the road while maintaining plenty of traditional hatchback charm.

Ready to Schedule a 2022 Mazda 3 Test Drive Today?

Do you want to discover more about this Mazda car model can do on the road? Come and visit us at Riley Mazda today! Our dedicated team of customer service representatives will assist you in meeting all your car purchasing, financing, and servicing needs. Call us today and book an appointment for your 2022 Mazda 3 test drive now!