2021 Lexus IS vs 2020 Nissan Versa

The 2020 Nissan Versa shed its previous "big car" styling details for a more refined look, taking cues from its larger siblings, the Maxima and Altima. The new design was relatively handsome, with a more proportionate grille and headlights. 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 2021 Lexus IS made a bold statement with its athletic proportions and great stance. The design captured motion even while standing still, with a fast roofline and an assertive spindle grille filled with diamond mesh. The interior matched the exterior's boldness, featuring a tastefully simple dash and a retro hi-fi feel in the center stack. The build quality was impeccable, with flawless paint, chrome, and panel gaps, as expected from a Lexus.

The 2020 Nissan Versa featured a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine, revised to produce 122 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque. This engine sent power to 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 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 2021 Lexus IS offered multiple powertrains. The IS 300 RWD had a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine with 241 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The IS 300 AWD featured a 3.5-liter V6 with 260 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. The IS 350 models, both AWD and RWD, had the same V6 but tuned to 311 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. RWD models came with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while AWD models had a six-speed automatic. The IS 350 RWD could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds. Fuel efficiency varied, with the IS 300 RWD rated at 21 mpg city, 31 highway, and 25 combined.

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 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 2021 Lexus IS focused on driver-centered form and function. The driver’s seat was easily adjustable and supportive, with heating and ventilation in the F Sport trim. The IS used NuLuxe synthetic upholstery, which was eco-friendly and easier to clean than leather. Storage space was ample, with various compartments and cupholders. The second row was comfortable for two but cramped for three. The trunk offered 10.8 cubic feet of space, with a deep configuration and a temporary spare stored beneath the load floor.

The 2020 Nissan Versa stepped up its game with a standard 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, Siri Eyes Free, and a hands-free text-messaging assistant. The SV trim featured the upgraded NissanConnect system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The digital instrument panel in the SV trim offered a large color screen with various functions, making it a tech-savvy choice for an economy car.

The 2021 Lexus IS introduced a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Lexus Enform services included Safety Connect, Service Connect, WiFi, and Remote, with various trial periods. The Navigation Package offered Dynamic Navigation and Destination Assist for three years. The Mark Levinson 17-speaker audio system was a recommended option for audiophiles, providing superb sound quality.

The 2020 Nissan Versa came with standard driver-assistance features, including 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 2021 Lexus IS was equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, which included a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning with steering assist, road-sign recognition, and adaptive cruise control. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, a backup camera, and LED lighting. The IS had not yet been rated by IIHS or NHTSA but was expected to perform well based on its platform.