2020 Nissan Versa vs 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2020 Nissan Versa had evolved significantly from its predecessor, shedding the "big car" styling details that were common in the early 2000s and mid-2010s. The new model adopted a more handsome design, taking cues from its larger siblings, the Maxima and Altima, without borrowing their oversized headlights or grille. Inside, the cabin was straightforward yet stylish, featuring a two-tone theme with dark charcoal and grayish cream colors. The seats had a neat design, and the overall interior space was ample for a subcompact sedan, although some harsh plastics and cheap-feeling manual seat adjustments were noticeable.

In contrast, the 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class exuded luxury and sophistication. Its design was smooth and rounded, resembling the larger S-Class and smaller C-Class. Available in sedan, wagon, coupe, or cabriolet, the E-Class catered to conservative buyers with its versatile design. The interior was sumptuous, featuring multi-tone leathers, aluminum, and deep-polished wood. Two feet of high-res digital screens stretched across the dash, complemented by ambient lighting in 64 colors. The cabin was a place of solitude, with heated armrests, massaging seats, and striking colors, making it a true luxury experience.

The 2020 Nissan Versa featured a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 122 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque. This was an improvement from the previous generation's 109 horsepower and 107 pound-feet of torque. The engine was paired with either a 5-speed manual or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The CVT, standard on the SV and SR trims, managed power well and offered a Sport mode for livelier performance. Fuel economy was decent, with the CVT returning 32 mpg city, 40 highway, and 35 combined.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered a range of engines, starting with the E350's 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, producing 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. The E450 featured a 3.0-liter V6 with 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. For performance enthusiasts, the AMG E53 and AMG E63 S models offered 429 and 603 horsepower, respectively. The E-Class provided a smooth and cushy ride, with precise handling and various driving modes. Fuel economy varied, with the E350 achieving up to 23 mpg city and 32 highway, while the AMG E63 S managed 16/23 mpg.

The 2020 Nissan Versa retained its predecessor's 15-cubic-foot trunk, one of the largest in its class. However, it lost 6 inches of rear legroom, making the backseat less spacious for adults. The front seats offered plenty of legroom, even for taller drivers. The Versa was a practical choice for personal commuting but less ideal for carpooling or ridesharing due to the reduced rear space.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class excelled in interior space and functionality. The sedan and wagon offered ample room, with the wagon featuring a rear-facing jump seat for small children. The coupe had a usable rear seat with its own window controls. The E-Class's infotainment system, though complicated, provided extensive customization options. The digital dash was high-res and easy to see, and the car featured practical elements like seat climate controls on the door panels and a net for water bottles in the front passenger footwell.

The 2020 Nissan Versa stepped up its game with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, Siri Eyes Free, and a hands-free text-messaging assistant. The SV trim added the NissanConnect system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as an upgraded instrument panel with a digital screen. This screen offered various functions, including safety alerts, Bluetooth streaming audio, and fuel-economy stats, making it a user-friendly and tech-savvy option.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class boasted advanced technology, including a semi-automated driving system, V2X communication, and multi-contour seats. The infotainment system, though complex, offered extensive customization and high-res displays. Standard features included Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Optional features like the Energizing Comfort Package and Track Pace app added novelty and fun to the tech-laden E-Class.

The 2020 Nissan Versa came with a host of standard driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. Other standard safety features included a reversing camera, front- and side-impact airbags, and Nissan's Easy Fill Tire Alert.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan and wagon received a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, a driver attention monitor, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included Pre-Safe Sound, side-collision bolsters, and rear side airbags, making the E-Class a leader in safety innovation.