2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class vs 2020 Nissan Versa

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, thanks to the shared V platform, 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 harsh plastics and manual seat adjustments, the Versa's cabin was a significant improvement over the previous model.

In contrast, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class maintained its classic exterior styling, with subtle aerodynamic improvements resulting in a drag coefficient of 0.22. The S-Class was slightly larger than its predecessor, with a longer wheelbase and increased dimensions, giving it a commanding presence on the road. The interior was a testament to luxury, centered around a prominent infotainment touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. Mercedes decluttered the cabin, opting for a minimalist design with rectangular air vents and ambient lighting that featured 250 LED elements in 64 colors. The materials used were of the highest quality, including Nappa leather and open-pore wood trim, although the piano-black trim was prone to smudging. Overall, the S-Class exuded opulence and sophistication, befitting its status as a flagship luxury sedan.

The 2020 Nissan Versa was powered by a revised 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 122 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque, a noticeable improvement over its predecessor. This engine drove the front wheels through either a 5-speed manual or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), with the manual available only on the base S trim. The CVT, standard on the SV and SR trims, managed power effectively, offering a Sport mode for a livelier driving experience. While the Versa's acceleration was decent, it was more about the fun of driving a slow car fast, with responsive steering and a balanced handling experience. Fuel economy was respectable, with the CVT-equipped Versa achieving 32 mpg city, 40 highway, and 35 combined.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offered two powerful engine options. The S500 4Matic featured a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine, delivering 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, while the S580 4Matic boasted a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, producing 496 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and included the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system, providing additional electric assist. The S500 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds, while the S580 achieved it in 4.4 seconds, with top speeds limited to 130 mph. The S-Class featured standard air suspension and optional E-Active Body Control, along with rear-wheel steering for improved maneuverability. The driving experience was smooth and composed, with precise steering and minimal body roll, even in sportier driving modes.

The 2020 Nissan Versa retained its predecessor's trunk size, offering 15 cubic feet of cargo space, one of the largest in its class. However, it lost 6 inches of rear legroom, making the backseat less accommodating for adult passengers. The front seats provided ample legroom, even for taller drivers, making it a suitable choice for personal commuting. Despite the reduced rear space, the Versa remained a practical option for those prioritizing trunk capacity.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class improved on its predecessor with more front and rear headroom, as well as increased rear legroom. While front legroom was less than some competitors, the S-Class excelled in shoulder room, enhancing the sense of spaciousness. Cargo space increased to 12.9 cubic feet, though still less than other luxury sedans. The front seats were exceptionally comfortable, with 19 motors for adjustment, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The cabin offered ample storage, with a large center console and wireless phone charging. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed power-adjustable seats and climate controls, especially with the optional Executive Line package, which added features like a reclining right-rear seat.

The 2020 Nissan Versa made strides in technology, with a standard 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and Siri Eyes Free. The SV trim added the NissanConnect system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with an upgraded digital instrument panel. This panel featured a digital tachometer and various menus accessible via the steering wheel, offering functionality similar to Audi's Virtual Cockpit. The Versa's tech integration was seamless and user-friendly, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch OLED central touchscreen, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The MBUX infotainment system was more powerful, with increased computing capacity and a focus on touchscreen controls. The S-Class also offered an augmented-reality head-up display, projecting navigation directions onto the windshield. While some features, like the ambient lighting, felt gimmicky, the overall tech package was impressive. The S-Class allowed for personal profiles with biometric access and rear-seat occupants could send navigation directions to the main screen, catering to a luxury experience.

The 2020 Nissan Versa came equipped with a range of standard driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. These features were part of a broader trend of making advanced safety technologies accessible across all trims. However, the inclusion of these systems could lead to higher repair costs in the event of an accident. Additional safety features included a reversing camera, front- and side-impact airbags, and Nissan's Easy Fill Tire Alert.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class boasted an array of safety features, including an industry-first rear-passenger airbag. Standard driver-assist technologies included adaptive cruise control, automated lane centering, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Mercedes improved these systems, with traffic-sign recognition detecting stop signs and red lights, and lane-keep assist reading road edges. The S-Class' adaptive cruise control and lane-centering systems performed exceptionally well, handling highway curves and traffic changes smoothly.