2020 BMW 2 Series vs 2020 Nissan Sentra

The 2020 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe was a departure from the traditional two-door coupe design, adopting a four-door layout with a sloping roofline. This change aligned with a broader trend among German automakers, where the term "coupe" was used more liberally. The Gran Coupe shared its platform with the BMW X1 and X2, as well as the Mini Clubman and Countryman, featuring a front-wheel-drive bias. The exterior design echoed the styling of the larger 8 Series, with modern and athletic front-end styling. However, the rear design struggled to maintain the aesthetic of the two-door coupe, despite efforts like frameless doors. Inside, the Gran Coupe offered a modern cockpit with solid fit-and-finish, though it lacked the elegance of some competitors. The model was available in different trims, with the 228i xDrive Gran Coupe offering features like power-folding heated side mirrors, dual-zone climate control, and an 8.8-inch iDrive touchscreen.

The 2020 Nissan Sentra, on the other hand, marked a significant improvement in design, shedding its previous dowdy image. The new Sentra resembled a scaled-down Altima, offering a more poised and mature look. The car was lower and wider than its predecessor, with detailed stampings and a recognizable V-shaped grille. The interior of the Sentra was also upgraded, featuring a flat-bottom leather steering wheel and a leatherette dash with white stitching. The SV Premium Package added quilted tan leather seats and other luxury touches. Despite some hard plastic elements, the Sentra's fit and finish were commendable, rivaling even the classiest non-luxury compact interiors. The Sentra's design and interior enhancements made it a more appealing choice for those seeking a stylish and comfortable compact sedan.

The 2020 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe was equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This power was delivered through an eight-speed automatic transmission to either the front wheels or xDrive all-wheel drive. While the engine was refined, it suffered from turbo lag, making initial acceleration less thrilling. The Gran Coupe offered a Drive Mode selector with Sport, Comfort, and Eco Pro modes, with Sport mode providing a more engaging experience. For those seeking more power, the M235i variant offered 301 horsepower and 331 pound-feet of torque. The Gran Coupe's steering was sharp and responsive, but its front-wheel-drive layout lacked the organic feel of the rear-wheel-drive Coupe and Convertible. The ride quality was firm, with the car struggling to absorb road imperfections, making it less suitable for areas with poor road conditions.

In contrast, the 2020 Nissan Sentra featured a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, delivering 149 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque through a continuously variable transmission (CVT) to the front wheels. The Sentra's acceleration tapered off after 30 mph, partly due to an overly sensitive throttle pedal. However, the CVT was smooth and responsive, mimicking gear changes effectively. The Sentra's steering response and handling were highlights, with an independent suspension replacing the previous torsion beam rear axle. This setup provided controlled cornering and a comfortable ride, especially with the standard 16-inch tires. The Sentra's fuel economy was impressive, with an EPA rating of 29 mpg city, 39 highway, and 33 combined, making it an economical choice for daily driving.

The 2020 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe offered supportive and comfortable front seats, but rear-seat legroom was limited, making it suitable for one or two passengers in most situations. The cockpit layout was straightforward, with easy-to-locate climate controls. However, the cupholders and center console were small, limiting storage options. The Gran Coupe provided 15.1 cubic feet of trunk space, which was competitive for its class, surpassing both the Audi A3 sedan and the Mercedes-Benz A-Class. The Coupe and Convertible variants offered slightly less cargo space, with the Convertible's capacity further reduced when the top was lowered.

The 2020 Nissan Sentra, on the other hand, offered a surprisingly spacious backseat, accommodating taller passengers comfortably. The front seats featured Nissan's Zero Gravity cushioning, designed to reduce fatigue on long drives. The Sentra's lowered body profile improved side visibility, though the rear window's rake limited the rear view. The driving position and controls were user-friendly, with traditional knobs for volume and tuning. The Sentra's trunk space measured 14.3 cubic feet, slightly less than the previous model but still generous for a compact sedan. The rear seatbacks folded to expand cargo capacity, enhancing the car's practicality.

The 2020 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe came standard with an 8.8-inch touchscreen with touch functionality and Android Auto. It also featured wireless Apple CarPlay, enhancing convenience. The test model included a fully-digital instrument panel with customizable navigation display and a head-up display. BMW's infotainment system was user-friendly, with touch functionality and center console buttons for easy navigation.

The 2020 Nissan Sentra, however, did not offer ProPilot, navigation, or wireless charging. Still, it came standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and WiFi on the mid-level SV trim. The SV also included additional USB ports and larger screens. The Sentra offered dual-zone climate control, adaptive cruise control, and remote engine start. While the interior was basic, it provided essential features for the price.

The 2020 BMW 2 Series included standard safety features such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and a backup camera. Available features included adaptive cruise control, automatic parking assistance, automatic high beams, and blind-spot monitoring. The driver-assist systems were seamless and customizable.

The 2020 Nissan Sentra had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but it was expected to receive top ratings. It included rear side airbags, knee airbags, forward and reverse emergency braking, pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, and auto high beams. A driver attention monitor was also standard, providing comprehensive safety features.