2019 Kia Optima vs 2020 Nissan Versa

The 2019 Kia Optima, while not as revolutionary in design as its 2011–2015 predecessor, still managed to capture attention with its signature tiger-nose grille, stylish fender-vent trim, and optional black panoramic glass roof. The variety of trim levels allowed buyers to find a look that suited their taste and budget. However, the limited availability of interior colors, except for black, made it challenging to find the perfect combination. Prices ranged from $22,900 for the base LX to $35,790 for the SX Turbo with the Limited Package, and the plug-in hybrid model topped $42,000. The SX Turbo trim, with its blacked-out exterior, 18-inch aluminum wheels, red brake calipers, and white pearl paint, looked like a stealthy sports sedan. Inside, black leather with red inserts and a flat-bottom steering wheel added to its sporty appeal.

In contrast, the 2020 Nissan Versa shed its previous "big car" styling for a more refined look, taking cues from its larger siblings, the Maxima and Altima. The new design was handsome and modern, without borrowing oversized elements from larger models. Inside, the cabin resembled that of the Nissan Kicks, offering plenty of interior space for a subcompact sedan. The test model featured a two-tone theme with dark charcoal and grayish cream colors, adding a touch of flair. The seats had a neat design, and the overall cabin was straightforward yet stylish. The Versa came in three trims: S, SV, and SR, with the SV trim offering the best blend of price and content. Despite some cheap-feeling materials, the new Versa made significant improvements over its predecessor.

The 2019 Kia Optima offered a range of five engines, including hybrid options. The base LX and sporty S trims featured a 185-horsepower, 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, while the mid-grade EX Turbo had a 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder with 178 hp. The hybrid models provided 41 mpg in combined driving, and the plug-in hybrid offered up to 28 miles of electric range. The SX Turbo trim, with its 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, delivered 245 hp and 260 pound-feet of torque. The 6-speed automatic transmission, with manual shift gate and paddle shifters, powered the front wheels. Four driving modes—Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Smart—allowed for a customizable driving experience. The SX Turbo's unique rack-mounted steering system provided better feel, though it lacked crispness on mountain roads. The sport-tuned suspension offered a firm yet comfortable ride, making the Optima enjoyable to drive, though not a true performance sedan.

The 2020 Nissan Versa retained its 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine but with improved output, now producing 122 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque. This engine powered the front wheels through either a 5-speed manual or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The S trim came with the manual transmission, while the CVT was standard on the SV and SR trims. Acceleration improved, making the Versa more capable of handling highway speeds. The CVT managed power well, with a Sport mode for livelier performance. The Versa's steering was responsive, and the car handled turns with precision, though it leaned at higher speeds. Fuel economy was decent, with the manual transmission returning 27 mpg city, 35 highway, and 30 combined, while the CVT achieved 32/40/35. In a week of mixed driving, the Versa averaged 34.7 mpg.

The 2019 Kia Optima excelled as a daily driver, offering comfort, simplicity, and ample storage. Controls were logically laid out and easy to use, with buttons and knobs reducing the need for touchscreen interaction. The spacious interior included a 15.9-cubic-foot trunk and numerous storage cubbies. The front seats offered various power adjustments, heating, and ventilation, with the Limited Package adding luxurious Nappa leather and other premium features. Backseat legroom was impressive, with good thigh support and a comfortable backrest angle. Rear air-conditioning vents and quick-charging USB ports added to passenger comfort. The Smart Trunk feature was convenient, though it could open unintentionally. Overall, the Optima was practical, comfortable, and easy to live with.

The 2020 Nissan Versa retained the previous generation's 15-cubic-foot trunk, one of the largest in its class, with a large opening for easy loading. However, it lost 6 inches of rear legroom, making the backseat less spacious. While a full-size adult could fit in the rear, it wasn't ideal for long trips. The front seats, on the other hand, offered plenty of legroom, even for taller drivers. The Versa was well-suited as a personal commuter car, though the reduced backseat space was a drawback for carpooling or ridesharing.

The 2019 Kia Optima came with a generous standard infotainment system, including an 8-inch touchscreen, UVO technology, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Siri Eyes Free, voice recognition, a USB port, and a reversing camera. The S and EX Turbo trims added satellite radio and UVO eServices, which required a smartphone data plan. New for 2019, UVO eServices included a smartphone app for remote access to vehicle functions. The SX Turbo trim featured a navigation system, HD Radio, and a Harman Kardon premium audio system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though the font choice was unique.

The 2020 Nissan Versa also stepped up its game with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, Siri Eyes Free, and a hands-free text-messaging assistant as standard features. It included three USB ports, with one up front and two in the center console. The SV trim featured the upgraded NissanConnect system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The SV trim also had an upgraded instrument panel with a digital screen, offering various functions like safety alerts, Bluetooth streaming audio, and fuel-economy stats. This system provided much of the functionality of more advanced systems without requiring a full instrument panel replacement.

The 2019 Kia Optima was a standout in safety, with standard features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Rear parking-assist sensors and a driver-monitoring system were also standard. Upgrades included adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and a surround-view camera system. The Optima received top ratings from the IIHS, except for an Acceptable rating for child safety seat LATCH anchor accessibility. The federal government awarded the Optima 5-star ratings in every test, except for a 4-star rating for front passenger protection in a frontal-impact collision.

The 2020 Nissan Versa added several standard driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. Other standard safety features included a reversing camera, front- and side-impact airbags, and Nissan's Easy Fill Tire Alert. While these features were commendable, they could increase repair costs in minor accidents due to the sensors involved.