No small city car has as much charm or is as much fun to drive as the 2021 Mini Cooper.
Pros Adorbs Quirky fun interior Fun to drive Customization comes easy Manual is back
Cons Cramped cargo area Cramped rear seats Dwarfed by other cars Can be kitschy Can be expensive
The 2021 MINI Cooper's #5 ranking is based on its score within the Subcompact Cars category. Currently the MINI Cooper has a score of 7.7 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 36 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Nimble handling Energetic engines Stylish cabin Good predicted reliability rating
Cons Significantly more expensive than its classmates Below-average cargo capacity Worse fuel economy than rivals
Manual-transmission Minis took a hiatus recently, but the six-speed stick is once again available for 2021 Cooper and Cooper S models, including the three- and five-door Hardtop models in addition to the convertible.
Pros Fun handling, distinctive design, lots of customization possibilities.
Cons Cramped interior, costly options, uncomfortable ride.
For 2018, the RAV4 gains a new Adventure trim level. It combines the XLE's equipment with the SE's sportier styling elements, then adds a few of its own styling flourishes and a tow package as well as raises ground clearance from 6.1 inches to 6.5. It also gets exclusive access to a new Cold Weather package that adds a variety of heated items. Interestingly, the SE trim level also gains the same extra ground clearance, which seems counter to its sportier, on-road mission.
PROS One of the largest, most versatile cargo areas in the segment Advanced safety and driver aids come standard Rides smoothly in a variety of conditions
CONS Ho-hum driving experience Interior has a utilitarian look and feel Modest acceleration from the only engine
The 2018 Toyota RAV4 ranked #12 in Compact SUVs. Currently the Toyota RAV4 has a score of 7.8 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 44 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Lots of standard safety features Large cargo area for the class
Cons Uninspiring interior styling and materials
The 2018 Toyota RAV4 has a lot going for it, including a hybrid model, but you’d be wise to cross-shop its rivals as well.
Pros Roomy, well-packaged interior Lots of standard safety tech Wide range of trim levels Rides well Thrifty hybrid
Cons Not all that polished Adventure is an oddball Quirky looks Fuel economy is mid-pack
