2020 Nissan Sentra vs 2021 BMW 5 Series

The 2020 Nissan Sentra, traditionally known for its modest appearance, underwent a transformation that made it more appealing. The model resembled a scaled-down Altima, giving it a larger presence than its actual size. The Sentra's design was more refined, with a lower and wider stance compared to its predecessor. The detailed stampings and V-shaped grille added a touch of sophistication, making it a standout in its class. Inside, the Sentra's interior was upgraded with features like a flat-bottom leather steering wheel and leatherette dash, offering a feel akin to more expensive vehicles. The SV Premium Package further enhanced the interior with quilted tan leather, elevating the Sentra's status among compact sedans.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW 5 Series maintained a restrained design, avoiding the flashy elements seen in other luxury sedans. The model received a minor refresh, resulting in a sleeker look with streamlined LED headlights and a larger, yet proportionate, twin-kidney grille. The 5 Series' interior retained the classic BMW layout, with details that emphasized the brand's identity. While the materials varied by trim level, the Nappa leather in the 540i xDrive test car added a luxurious touch. The aluminum trim and sport steering wheel contributed to the high-end feel, although the steering wheel's sporty design seemed out of place in the otherwise elegant interior.

The 2020 Nissan Sentra featured a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine producing 149 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Sentra's acceleration was smooth, though it tapered off after 30 mph. The CVT mimicked gear changes effectively, providing a responsive driving experience. The independent suspension improved handling, offering a flat cornering experience and agreeable ride quality. The Sentra's fuel economy was impressive, with an EPA rating of 29 mpg city, 39 highway, and 33 combined.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series offered a range of powertrains, starting with the 530i's 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The 540i featured a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, producing 335 horsepower and 362 pound-feet of torque. The 540i xDrive test car demonstrated precise handling and a smooth engine, though it lacked the ultimate driving experience BMW was known for. The M550i xDrive and M5 models provided sportier options with more powerful engines, while the 530e plug-in hybrid offered an eco-friendly alternative with a 288 horsepower output.

The 2020 Nissan Sentra's interior was surprisingly spacious, with ample backseat room for taller passengers. The front seats featured Nissan's Zero Gravity cushioning, providing comfort on long drives. The lowered body profile improved side visibility, though the rear window's design limited the view. The trunk offered 14.3 cubic feet of space, accommodating larger items with foldable seatbacks.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series sedan provided generous interior space, with competitive front-seat room and adequate rear-seat space. The 540i's trunk measured 14.0 cubic feet, surpassing some rivals, and featured a 40/20/20 split-folding rear bench for versatility. The test car's 16-way power front seats offered support and comfort, though forward visibility was hindered by the long hood. A surround-view camera system aided in maneuvering.

The 2020 Nissan Sentra lacked some advanced features like ProPilot, navigation, and wireless charging. However, it included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and WiFi as standard on the mid-level SV. The SV also offered dual-zone climate control, adaptive cruise control, and a suite of driver-assist features, making it a well-equipped option for its price.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series came with a standard 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The iDrive 7 system, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, and a WiFi hotspot were standard. The infotainment system's graphics were excellent, though the instrument cluster layout could be confusing. The rotary knob controller provided a tactile interface, while gesture controls offered an alternative, albeit less precise, method for adjusting settings.

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, and a comprehensive suite of safety features like emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and blind-spot monitoring.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series, similar to the 2020 model, received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. Standard safety features included lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Driving Assistance Plus Package added advanced features like adaptive cruise control and traffic-jam assist, showcasing BMW's sophisticated driver-assist technology.