Mini Cooper SE vs Subaru Impreza
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Mini Cooper SE | Subaru Impreza | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max power (hp) | 184 | 145 | +26.9% |
| Max torque (Nm) | 270 | 188 | +43.6% |
| NCAP safety | 4★ (Euro NCAP) | 5★ (JNCAP) | — |
| Fuel type | Electric | Hybrid | — |
| Transmission | Automatic | CVT | — |
| Price (USD est.) | $38,664 | $18,744 | +106.3% |
- Mini Cooper SE makes about 27% more power (184 vs 145 hp).
- Their economy figures use different measures (Electric vs Hybrid), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
- Prices are converted to USD from their home markets (EU and Japan); taxes and availability differ by country.
Verdict: Cooper SE or Impreza?
Mini Cooper SE advantages
- Engine power (+21%)
- Pulling torque (+30%)
Subaru Impreza advantages
- Crash-test safety (+20%)
- Affordability (+52%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the Mini Cooper SE if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
- Choose the Subaru Impreza if you prioritize crash protection for your family.
- Choose the Mini Cooper SE if you tow, carry loads or drive hilly roads.
Value for money
Subaru Impreza delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Mini Cooper SE vs Subaru Impreza: which should you choose?
Mini Cooper SE (2024 Cooper SE Level 3) — electric hatchback with 184 hp and 270 Nm, rated at 15.2 kWh/100km, 4-star Euro NCAP safety; priced near $38,664 in the EU market.
Subaru Impreza (2026 ST-G e-Boxer Hybrid) — hybrid hatchback with 145 hp and 188 Nm, rated at 16.6 km/L, 5-star JNCAP safety; priced near $18,744 in the Japan market.
Mini Cooper SE vs Subaru Impreza: Mini Cooper SE is more powerful. Mini Cooper SE makes about 27% more power (184 vs 145 hp). Their economy figures use different measures (Electric vs Hybrid), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Performance
The Mini Cooper SE is the more powerful, at 184 hp against 145 hp, with 270 Nm of torque on tap. Its electric drivetrain pairs with a automatic transmission.
Running costs
These cars use different energy types (Electric vs Hybrid), so compare cost per kilometre at your local fuel and electricity prices rather than a single economy number.
Safety
Mini Cooper SE is rated 4 stars by Euro NCAP and Subaru Impreza 5 stars by JNCAP. Different NCAP programmes use different protocols, so same-programme comparisons are the most reliable.
Price and value
The Subaru Impreza lists lower at about $18,744 (USD-converted from the Japan market). Factor in insurance, fuel or charging, taxes and resale — not just the sticker price.
The verdict
Both are credible choices in the car comparison space; the specification table above lays out every metric so you can weigh the trade-offs that matter to you. Pick the one whose strengths line up with how you will actually use it.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Mini Cooper SE better than the Subaru Impreza?
These two are closely matched — the right pick comes down to which specific strengths you value and the price you actually pay. Mini Cooper SE makes about 27% more power (184 vs 145 hp).
What is the main difference between the Mini Cooper SE and the Subaru Impreza?
Mini Cooper SE makes about 27% more power (184 vs 145 hp). Their economy figures use different measures (Electric vs Hybrid), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Which is better value?
Subaru Impreza delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Which should I choose?
Choose the Mini Cooper SE if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence. Choose the Subaru Impreza if you prioritize crash protection for your family.
Methodology
Cars are compared on manufacturer-rated maximum power and torque, certified fuel economy (km/L, converted from each market's test cycle: EPA, WLTP, CLTC, JC08/WLTC, ARAI) or EV energy use (kWh/100km), official NCAP crash-test ratings from the model's home-market programme, and list prices converted to USD at recent exchange rates. Each model shows its newest listed year and its highest-priority market trim. Test cycles differ between regions, so cross-market economy figures are directional rather than exact; prices exclude local taxes and incentives.