The 2022 Mini Cooper is a stylish and fun-to-drive car that has been praised by critics for its handling and performance. However, the Cooper is also known for its reliability. A recent study backs up this claim, though it also shines a spotlight on how Mini brand as a whole is lagging.

The Mini Cooper has improved since last year

In 2022, Mini updated several of its models. Some of the changes made included a digital instrument cluster, lane-departure warning, and a 12-month subscription to SiriusXM for all trim levels. 

There were also some minor changes, such as the removal of fog lights to increase aerodynamics. In spite of this, the Cooper was the only Mini that ranked in the improved reliability category in a recent Consumer Reports survey.

The base trim comes equipped with a 134 hp, 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine that is adequate enough. The Cooper S comes equipped with a more powerful 189 hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that brings more of the fun that Minis are so well known for. 

The 2022 Mini Cooper was praised for its sporty, fun ride, especially when driven on curvy roads. 

Not all is perfect with the Mini Cooper, however. The learning curve for the controls and road noise were less than pleasing. Most of the scores were fairly high, but the rear seats received the most criticism.

What does this mean for the brand as a whole?

The 2022 Mini Cooper was the only model in Mini’s 2022 lineup to see improved reliability scores. The improved reliability is good news for Mini, as it should help to improve the brand’s image. The Cooper is a popular car, and its improved reliability will make it even more appealing to buyers.

However, there are still three other models in Mini’s 2022 lineup (the Mini Cooper Countryman, Clubman, and electric hardtop). Ideally, every model would improve upon its reliability but that doesn’t appear to be the case.

If Mini wants to continue to be competitive starting with improved reliability is a great place to start.

What other models improved their reliability?

Several other models in the survey were rated as improved by owners. Even though the Toyota Corolla always receives high praise, the Hatchback is often not received as well thanks to being less comfortable than the sedan model. In spite of this, Toyota has made some strides in the right direction, and many owners feel that it has gotten better.

The Genesis G80 and GV70 have also improved. Genesis, the luxury brand of Hyundai, is still a fairly new brand, and continues to bring new vehicles into the lineup. In spite of this, the growing brand is able to compete with more established brands like Audi and BMW.

Other vehicles that saw improvement include the Subaru Ascent, Hyundai Santa Fe, Chevrolet Corvette, Volvo S60, Nissan Rogue, Ford Escape Hybrid, Lincoln Corsair, and Kia Seltos to name a few.