2021 Hyundai Sonata vs 2020 Nissan Sentra

The 2020 Nissan Sentra underwent a significant transformation, shedding its previous dowdy image for a more stylish and appealing design. The Sentra's new look was likened to a scaled-down Altima, with a lower and wider stance that gave it a poised and mature appearance. The Electric Blue paint on the test car added to its visual appeal, and the mid-level SV trim, despite its modest 16-inch alloy wheels and halogen headlights, did not feel drab. The interior of the Sentra also saw improvements, with a flat-bottom leather steering wheel and a leatherette dash that elevated its class. The SV Premium Package offered luxurious touches like quilted tan leather seats, making the Sentra feel more upscale.

In contrast, the 2021 Hyundai Sonata presented a daring and distinctive design that was a love-it-or-hate-it proposition. The Sonata's N Line treatment enhanced its sporty appearance with larger air intakes, gloss black accents, and bold 19-inch wheels. The interior of the Sonata N Line featured sport front seats with Nappa leather bolsters and Dinamica suede inserts, red stitching, and aluminum pedal covers, creating a sporty yet comfortable environment. The panoramic sunroof added a sense of spaciousness, and the materials used were of high quality, though the hard plastic front seatback panels could be uncomfortable for taller passengers.

The 2020 Nissan Sentra was powered by a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine, producing 149 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While it lacked the turbocharged engines and manual transmissions of previous models, the Sentra offered a smooth and responsive driving experience. The independent suspension improved handling, and the steering was quick with good on-center feel. Fuel economy was impressive, with an EPA rating of 29 mpg city, 39 highway, and 33 combined.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line, on the other hand, was equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 290 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. The eight-speed wet dual-clutch automatic transmission with paddle shifters and launch control provided a thrilling driving experience. The Sonata N Line featured Normal, Sport, Sport+, and Custom driving modes, along with an Active Sound Design system for an enhanced engine note. The sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and 19-inch wheels contributed to its agile handling, making it a joy to drive on winding roads. The Sonata N Line's fuel economy was rated at 27 mpg combined, though real-world driving yielded slightly lower figures.

The 2020 Nissan Sentra offered a surprisingly spacious backseat, accommodating taller passengers comfortably. The front seats featured Nissan's Zero Gravity cushioning, providing excellent support on long drives. The trunk space measured 14.3 cubic feet, which was generous for a compact sedan. However, rear visibility was limited due to the raked rear window and headrests.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line provided heated front sport seats with a balance of comfort and lateral support. The rear seat space was not significantly more accommodating than the Elantra N Line, but it did offer rear air conditioning vents and a USB port. The trunk volume was a roomy 16 cubic feet, with a 60/40-split folding rear seat for added utility. The Smart Trunk hands-free release feature was a convenient addition, though the lack of an interior handle could be inconvenient.

The 2020 Nissan Sentra came with a basic set of technology features, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and WiFi on the mid-level SV trim. The SV also included dual-zone climate control, adaptive cruise control, and remote engine start. However, it lacked navigation, wireless charging, and some premium features like a Bose stereo and sunroof.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line was equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Standard features included navigation, wireless smartphone charging, and a Bose premium sound system. The infotainment system supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Blue Link connected services. However, the lack of a tuning knob and occasional touch-sensing issues were minor drawbacks. The Sonata N Line also featured Hyundai Digital Key, though it was only compatible with Android devices.

The 2020 Nissan Sentra was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including 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. However, it had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS at the time of review.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line came with Hyundai's SmartSense collection of advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot warning, and more. The Sonata N Line also featured a Rear Occupant Alert system, Safe Exit Warning, and Highway Drive Assist. While the N Line had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, the standard Sonata had high safety ratings.