2020 Nissan Versa vs 2020 Toyota Prius

The 2020 Nissan Versa had evolved significantly from its predecessor, shedding the "big car" styling details that characterized earlier models. The new design was more refined and took 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 generous for a subcompact sedan, thanks to the Nissan V platform.

The 2020 Toyota Prius maintained its iconic jellybean-like shape, optimized for aerodynamics. Despite its hatchback design, the Prius incorporated visual tricks to appear more like a sedan. The interior was futuristic, with a central location for instrumentation and gauges. The cabin was spacious, with plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The Prius also offered a versatile cargo space, making it one of the most practical options among hybrid and electric vehicles.

The 2020 Nissan Versa featured a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 122 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque. This 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 version achieving 32 mpg city, 40 highway, and 35 combined. The driving experience was engaging, with responsive steering and decent acceleration.

The 2020 Toyota Prius combined a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering 121 horsepower and 105 pound-feet of torque. The Prius offered both front-wheel drive (FWD) and an all-wheel-drive (AWD) variant, the latter featuring a second electric motor for the rear wheels. The Prius excelled in smooth, confident acceleration, especially at lower speeds, with a seamless transition between electric and conventional power. It offered three drive modes—EV, Eco, and Power—each catering to different driving needs. The unique shifter design and Engine Braking mode added to its distinctive driving experience.

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. The front seats offered ample 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 Toyota Prius made excellent use of its space, with deep door pockets, a large tray area between the front seats, and additional sub-trays around the center console. The front seats were spacious and comfortable, with good visibility for the driver. The rear seats also provided ample space, though taller passengers needed to be cautious when entering and exiting. The Prius offered 50.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and up to 27.4 cubic feet with the seats up, making it one of the most versatile options in its segment.

The 2020 Nissan Versa came standard 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, along with an upgraded instrument panel featuring a digital screen for various functions. This setup provided a seamless integration of technology, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2020 Toyota Prius also featured a 7-inch touchscreen with a sensible menu layout, standard Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth connectivity, a WiFi hotspot, and three USB ports. The Limited trim upgraded to an 11.6-inch screen with a customizable layout, though it lacked Android Auto. The Prius offered additional features like satellite radio, HD Radio, a head-up display (HUD), and a 10-speaker JBL premium audio system. The top-center instrument panel provided critical readouts and hybrid drivetrain status, accessible via the steering wheel's directional pad.

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

The 2020 Toyota Prius came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, parking sensors, and lane-tracing assist. The Prius earned a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" from the IIHS, though it fell short of the highest rating due to "average" scores in certain tests.