2020 Nissan Versa vs 2021 BMW 5 Series

The 2020 Nissan Versa shed its previous "big car" styling quirks, adopting a more refined and handsome design reminiscent of its larger siblings, the Maxima and Altima. This new look was a welcome change, as it avoided the oversized headlights and grille of its predecessor, instead opting for a more balanced and appealing aesthetic. Inside, the Versa's cabin shared similarities with the Nissan Kicks, offering ample interior space for a subcompact sedan. The straightforward yet stylish interior featured a two-tone theme with dark charcoal and grayish cream accents, adding a touch of flair to the economy-car segment. Despite some cost-cutting measures, such as the use of harsh plastics and manual seat adjustments, the Versa's cabin represented a significant improvement over the previous model.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW 5 Series maintained a restrained design, avoiding the flashy elements seen in other BMW sedans. The 5 Series received a minor styling refresh, resulting in a sleeker appearance with streamlined LED headlights and a larger, yet not overly imposing, twin-kidney grille. The interior retained the classic BMW layout, with familiar design cues that emphasized the brand's identity. While the lower trim levels featured standard SensaTec upholstery, higher trims offered luxurious options like Dakota and Nappa leather. The 540i xDrive test car boasted Nappa leather and aluminum trim, enhancing the high-end feel, although the sport steering wheel felt somewhat out of place in the otherwise luxurious cabin.

The 2020 Nissan Versa was powered by a revised 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 122 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque, an improvement over the previous generation's output. This engine drove the front wheels through either a 5-speed manual or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The CVT, standard on the SV and SR trims, managed power effectively, offering a decent acceleration experience. The Versa's steering was responsive, and while the body leaned at higher speeds, it settled into turns with precision. Fuel economy was respectable, with the CVT achieving 32 mpg city, 40 highway, and 35 combined.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series offered a range of powertrain options, 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 provided a sporty driving experience with precise handling and a smooth engine, although it lacked the ultimate driving engagement of past BMWs. The M550i and M5 models offered even more power, with the M5 achieving 617 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of just 3.1 seconds. The 530e plug-in hybrid added an electric motor for a combined output of 288 horsepower, capable of driving on electric power alone for significant distances.

The 2020 Nissan Versa retained a spacious trunk with 15 cubic feet of cargo space, one of the largest in its class. However, it lost 6 inches of rear legroom compared to the previous generation, making the backseat less accommodating for adults on longer journeys. The front seats offered ample legroom, even for taller drivers, making the Versa a suitable personal commuter car.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series, available only as a sedan in the U.S., provided a spacious interior with competitive front-seat space and adequate rear-seat room. The 540i's trunk offered 14.0 cubic feet of space, surpassing rivals like the Audi A6 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The rear bench featured a 40/20/20 split fold for added versatility. The test car's 16-way power front seats provided excellent support and comfort, although forward visibility was hindered by the long hood. A surround-view camera system helped with parking and maneuvering.

The 2020 Nissan Versa came equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and Siri Eyes Free as standard. The SV trim added the NissanConnect system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with an upgraded instrument panel featuring a digital screen. This screen offered various functions, including safety alerts and fuel-economy stats, providing a user-friendly experience.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series featured a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with the latest iDrive 7 system and a 12.3-inch Live Cockpit Professional digital instrument cluster. Standard features included Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and a WiFi hotspot. The rotary knob controller provided a tactile interface, while voice and gesture controls offered alternative ways to interact with the system. However, the gesture controls required learning specific movements, which could be challenging for some users.

The 2020 Nissan Versa included standard driver-assistance features such as automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. These features enhanced safety but could increase repair costs due to the sensors involved. Additional safety equipment included a reversing camera, front- and side-impact airbags, and Nissan's Easy Fill Tire Alert.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series, while not crash-tested by the IIHS for 2021, received a "Top Safety Pick+" award for the 2020 model. Standard safety features included lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic high beams. The Driving Assistance Plus Package added advanced features like adaptive cruise control and traffic-jam assist, offering a sophisticated and smooth driver-assist experience.