2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs 2020 Nissan Maxima

The 2020 Nissan Maxima was a testament to Nissan's signature design language, featuring the recognizable V-Motion grille that seamlessly transitioned into jewel-like LED headlights and daytime running lights. Its floating-roof design, accentuated by a prominent beltline, culminated in quad-tip exhaust finishers at the rear. The Maxima SR models boasted a sporty rear spoiler, adding to its dynamic appearance. As the pioneer of this design era for Nissan sedans, the Maxima set the stage for models like the Altima, Sentra, and Versa. Available in S, SV, SL, SR, and Platinum trims, the Maxima offered a range of wheel options, with the Platinum trim featuring 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels. Inside, the Maxima's cabin was spacious and well-appointed, with the Platinum trim offering premium materials and finishes. The SR model stood out with unique styling elements, including patterned seat inserts and a charcoal headliner. Despite its thick center console, the Maxima provided ample room for passengers and a comprehensive list of standard features, including an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen and various connectivity options.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI carried forward the legacy of the original GTI, which debuted in the U.S. as the "Volkswagen Rabbit GTI" in 1983. This hot hatch was known for its performance enhancements and sporty design cues. The GTI shared its foundation with the regular Golf but featured subtle upgrades that elevated it to a performance category. Red GTI badges, a red horizontal strip across the grille, and painted brake calipers were some of the distinguishing features. The GTI's lowered stance, stainless-steel exhaust tips, and gloss black accents added to its sporty appeal. Inside, the GTI's cabin was a blend of sporty and quality materials, with red ambient lighting, a race-inspired steering wheel, and heated front sport seats. The GTI's interior was well-crafted, with high-quality materials and a focus on driver engagement.

The 2020 Nissan Maxima was powered by a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 300 horsepower and 261 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While marketed as a "four-door sports car," the Maxima was more of a comfortable cruiser, excelling in soaking up road imperfections and providing a quiet ride, thanks to active noise cancellation technology. The Maxima's front-wheel-drive setup and 18-gallon fuel tank were standard, with no all-wheel-drive option available. Despite this, the Maxima felt stable in most driving situations, though it could become slightly unsettled under aggressive acceleration. The EPA estimated its fuel economy at 20 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined, comparable to other vehicles in its class. However, the Maxima did not offer a hybrid option, unlike competitors like the Toyota Avalon.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI was all about performance, with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The GTI's handling was a standout feature, with four-wheel independent suspension and DCC adaptive damping in the Autobahn model. Variable-ratio steering and Golf R front brakes contributed to its agile and responsive driving experience. However, the performance-oriented setup resulted in a firm ride on regular roads. The GTI offered a choice between a DSG seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and a standard six-speed manual transmission, with the latter providing a more engaging driving experience. The GTI's fuel economy was rated at 23 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined for the manual transmission, with slightly better figures for the dual-clutch option. Notably, the GTI only required regular unleaded fuel, though premium unleaded was recommended for optimal performance.

The 2020 Nissan Maxima offered spacious seating and a comfortable cabin, though the thick center console limited the feeling of openness. The front seats were wide and comfortable, suitable for long journeys, while the rear seats provided adequate space for passengers. However, the Maxima fell short in terms of legroom compared to rivals like the Honda Accord and Toyota Avalon. The Maxima's trunk space was also limited, with 14.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity, less than competitors like the Sonata and Accord. Despite these limitations, the Maxima proved capable of handling everyday cargo and seating needs. The front in-door bottle holders were a practical feature, accommodating 20-ounce bottles.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI excelled in form and function, with its compact hatchback design offering versatility and practicality. With a 103.6-inch wheelbase and compact dimensions, the GTI was easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The hatchback design provided 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 24.8 cubic feet with the seats folded flat. The front row offered ample space for taller drivers, while the rear seats were suitable for two average-sized adults. The GTI's tight turning circle and sharp steering made parking and city driving a breeze. Inside, clever storage solutions included large front door pockets and well-sized cupholders, though the mechanical handbrake slightly interfered with access to the cupholders.

The 2020 Nissan Maxima came equipped with a range of standard features, though its technology offerings were not the most modern. The 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen and 7-inch driver information display were functional but lacked a contemporary appearance. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard across all models, while the NissanConnect Services concierge program was available on the top Platinum trim. The Maxima offered an optional Bose Premium Audio system and notable features like the Around View Monitor camera system and power rear sunshade. USB-A and USB-C ports were available for convenient device charging.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI featured a mix of traditional and modern technology. The GTI retained analog gauges, with a configurable driver information screen, and a mechanical handbrake. The VW MIB touchscreen infotainment system was standard, with S models using the MIB2 system and SE and Autobahn models featuring the MIB3 system with navigation. The infotainment system supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and MirrorLink, with Bluetooth connectivity and USB ports. Volkswagen Car-Net offered additional connectivity options, including remote access and integration with Amazon Alexa. The GTI also came with LED lighting, keyless access, and other convenience features.

The 2020 Nissan Maxima was equipped with Nissan Safety Shield 360, a comprehensive package of safety and driver-assist technologies. Standard features included airbags, a tire-pressure monitoring system, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, intelligent forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and rear automatic braking. Traffic sign recognition and adaptive cruise control were standard on all but the base model. The Maxima performed well in crash tests, receiving top ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and top scores from the IIHS, except for an "Acceptable" rating in the small overlap front passenger side test and a "Poor" rating for the base Halogen headlights. The GTI offered a range of standard safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and multiple airbags. The Autobahn trim added advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The GTI's sharp handling also contributed to its safety, potentially helping drivers avoid collisions.