2020 Nissan Sentra vs 2021 BMW 5 Series
Overview | |
MSRP$19,310 | MSRP$54,200 |
Average price$15,960 | Average price$33,948 |
Listings635 | Listings510 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews7.7 out of 10 | Expert reviews8.0 out of 10 |
Pros
| Pros
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2020 Nissan Sentra Reviews SummaryFor 38 years, Nissan has peddled the Sentra as its definitive starter car. It’s a household name like Civic, Corolla, and Jetta—all of which are brand-new or have been refreshed in the last couple of years. The eighth-generation Sentra has the look of a larger, more luxurious car. It reflects major upgrades in style, technology, and driving dynamics. Compact sedans have a high bar to clear, even at $20,000. The 2020 Sentra delivers in every respect. | |
2021 BMW 5 Series Reviews SummaryBMW was once known for sports sedans, and the 5 Series was one of the most prolific of those sedans. Sitting between the 3 Series and 7 Series in size and price, previous generations of 5 Series were known for a balance of performance and luxury, with impeccable engineering throughout. Today, the BMW 5 Series is largely irrelevant. The 3 Series is now so big that there is less reason to upgrade, and most buyers are more interested in SUVs anyway. The competition—including the Audi A6, Jaguar XF, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Volvo S90—has also gotten better. That doesn’t mean BMW has given up on the 5 Series. The current generation (codename G30) arrived for the 2017 model year, but it gets a midcycle refresh (or LCI, short for “Life Cycle Impulse,” in BMW speak) for 2021. Major updates include a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, a bigger infotainment touchscreen, and subtle styling changes. The 2021 BMW 5 Series is not like the 5 Series models of old. That may drive away hardcore car fans, but the 2021 model makes a strong case to new-car buyers, maintaining sportier-than-average driving dynamics, along with the tech and luxury features expected of a car in this segment. | |
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Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine2.0L 149 hp I4 | Engine2.0L 248 hp I4 |
Drive TrainFWD | Drive TrainRWD |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity5 |
Horsepower149 hp @ 6400 rpm | Horsepower248 hp @ 5200 rpm |
MPG City29 | MPG City25 |
MPG Highway39 | MPG Highway33 |
Engine | |
Engine Name2.0L 149 hp I4 | Engine Name2.0L 248 hp I4 |
Torque146 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm | Torque257 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm |
Horsepower149 hp @ 6400 rpm | Horsepower248 hp @ 5200 rpm |
DrivetrainFWD | DrivetrainRWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City29 | MPG City25 |
MPG Highway39 | MPG Highway33 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity5 |
Key Features | |
Navigation System | Navigation SystemStandard |
Sunroof/Moonroof | Sunroof/MoonroofStandard |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall4 | Front Crash Overall |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space14.3 cu ft | Cargo Space14.0 cu ft |
Curb Weight3047 lbs | Curb Weight3765 lbs |
Height56.9 in | Height58.2 in |
Length182.7 in | Length195.8 in |
Width71.5 in | Width83.7 in |
Wheelbase106.8 in | Wheelbase117.1 in |
Maximum Payload910 lbs | Maximum Payload800 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Overview | ||
MSRP | $19,310 | $54,200 |
Average price | $15,960 | $33,948 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | ||
Expert reviews | 7.7 out of 10Read full review | 8.0 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
| Pros
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Summary | For 38 years, Nissan has peddled the Sentra as its definitive starter car. It’s a household name like Civic, Corolla, and Jetta—all of which are brand-new or have been refreshed in the last couple of years. The eighth-generation Sentra has the look of a larger, more luxurious car. It reflects major upgrades in style, technology, and driving dynamics. Compact sedans have a high bar to clear, even at $20,000. The 2020 Sentra delivers in every respect. | BMW was once known for sports sedans, and the 5 Series was one of the most prolific of those sedans. Sitting between the 3 Series and 7 Series in size and price, previous generations of 5 Series were known for a balance of performance and luxury, with impeccable engineering throughout. Today, the BMW 5 Series is largely irrelevant. The 3 Series is now so big that there is less reason to upgrade, and most buyers are more interested in SUVs anyway. The competition—including the Audi A6, Jaguar XF, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Volvo S90—has also gotten better. That doesn’t mean BMW has given up on the 5 Series. The current generation (codename G30) arrived for the 2017 model year, but it gets a midcycle refresh (or LCI, short for “Life Cycle Impulse,” in BMW speak) for 2021. Major updates include a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, a bigger infotainment touchscreen, and subtle styling changes. The 2021 BMW 5 Series is not like the 5 Series models of old. That may drive away hardcore car fans, but the 2021 model makes a strong case to new-car buyers, maintaining sportier-than-average driving dynamics, along with the tech and luxury features expected of a car in this segment. |
Video | No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 2.0L 149 hp I4 | 2.0L 248 hp I4 |
Drive Train | FWD | RWD |
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Horsepower | 149 hp @ 6400 rpm | 248 hp @ 5200 rpm |
MPG City | 29 | 25 |
MPG Highway | 39 | 33 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 2.0L 149 hp I4 | 2.0L 248 hp I4 |
Torque | 146 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm | 257 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm |
Horsepower | 149 hp @ 6400 rpm | 248 hp @ 5200 rpm |
Drivetrain | FWD | RWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 29 | 25 |
MPG Highway | 39 | 33 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Key Features | ||
Navigation System | Standard | |
Sunroof/Moonroof | Standard | |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 4 | |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 14.3 cu ft | 14.0 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 3047 lbs | 3765 lbs |
Height | 56.9 in | 58.2 in |
Length | 182.7 in | 195.8 in |
Width | 71.5 in | 83.7 in |
Wheelbase | 106.8 in | 117.1 in |
Maximum Payload | 910 lbs | 800 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
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.
CarGurus highlights

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2020 Nissan Sentra is 7.7 out of 10, while the 2021 BMW 5 Series scores 8.0 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2021 BMW 5 Series is the recommended choice for those seeking a luxury sedan with advanced features and a refined driving experience.
Choose the 2020 Nissan Sentra if:
- You want a compact sedan with a refined design and upscale interior features.
- Fuel efficiency and a smooth driving experience are priorities.
- You seek a well-equipped vehicle with essential technology and safety features at an affordable price.
Choose the 2021 BMW 5 Series if:
- You desire a luxury sedan with a sleek design and classic BMW interior layout.
- A range of powerful engine options and precise handling are important to you.
- Advanced technology and sophisticated driver-assist features are a must-have.
CarGurus highlights

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2020 Nissan Sentra is 7.7 out of 10, while the 2021 BMW 5 Series scores 8.0 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2021 BMW 5 Series is the recommended choice for those seeking a luxury sedan with advanced features and a refined driving experience.
Choose the 2020 Nissan Sentra if:
Shop Now- You want a compact sedan with a refined design and upscale interior features.
- Fuel efficiency and a smooth driving experience are priorities.
- You seek a well-equipped vehicle with essential technology and safety features at an affordable price.
Choose the 2021 BMW 5 Series if:
Shop Now- You desire a luxury sedan with a sleek design and classic BMW interior layout.
- A range of powerful engine options and precise handling are important to you.
- Advanced technology and sophisticated driver-assist features are a must-have.

By: CarGurus + AI
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