2021 Subaru Legacy vs 2020 Nissan Versa

The 2020 Nissan Versa had evolved from its previous "big car" styling, adopting a more refined and handsome look reminiscent of its larger siblings, the Maxima and Altima. The new design was more proportional, avoiding oversized headlights and grilles. Inside, the Versa's cabin was straightforward yet stylish, featuring a two-tone theme with dark charcoal and grayish cream colors. The seats had unique designs, and the interior space was ample for a subcompact sedan, although some harsh plastics and cheap-feeling manual seat adjustments were noticeable.

In contrast, the 2021 Subaru Legacy maintained a subdued yet functional design, closely resembling the Subaru Outback from the B-pillar forward. The Legacy featured standard low-beam and high-beam steering-responsive LED headlights and high-gloss stainless steel side-window moldings. The interior was a blend of high-quality materials and piano black plastic, with some fit-and-finish issues noted. Cloth upholstery was standard, with leather available at extra cost. The cabin was spacious, offering a comfortable seating position and good forward visibility, although the trunk space was somewhat limited.

The 2020 Nissan Versa was powered by a revised 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. The Versa's steering was responsive, and the car handled well, although it leaned at higher speeds. Fuel economy was decent, with the CVT achieving 32 mpg city, 40 highway, and 35 combined.

The 2021 Subaru Legacy offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, and a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine in the Limited XT and Touring XT trims, producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a CVT, and all-wheel drive (AWD) was standard. The AWD system provided excellent traction and stability, although the steering could be challenging at highway speeds without lane-centering technology activated. Fuel economy for the 2.5-liter engine was 27 mpg city, 35 highway, and 30 combined, while the turbocharged engine achieved 24 mpg city, 32 highway, and 27 combined.

The 2020 Nissan Versa retained its predecessor's 15-cubic-foot trunk, one of the largest in its class, with a large opening for easy loading. However, the new Versa lost 6 inches of rear legroom, making the backseat less suitable for adult passengers on long trips. The front seats offered plenty of legroom, even for taller drivers, making it a good choice for personal commuting.

The 2021 Subaru Legacy focused on comfort, with improved seat positioning and sound insulation. The front seats were available with manual or power adjustments, and higher trims offered heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. The backseat provided ample legroom for adults, but the trunk space was limited to 15.1 cubic feet. The Legacy's cabin felt spacious, with good forward visibility and a sense of openness.

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, as well as an upgraded instrument panel with a digital screen for various functions. The Versa's technology was user-friendly and seamlessly integrated into daily life.

The 2021 Subaru Legacy featured dual 7-inch infotainment and climate control displays on the base model, with an 11.6-inch touchscreen standard on higher trims. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with multiple USB ports and a 12-volt power outlet. Higher trims offered additional features like navigation, a Harman Kardon audio system, and a 180-degree front-view monitor. The infotainment system was functional but had a somewhat unsophisticated appearance.

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

The 2021 Subaru Legacy excelled in safety, earning top scores from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included Subaru EyeSight technology with adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure warning, and a head-up display. Additional features like reverse automatic braking and blind-spot monitoring were available. The Legacy also came with a comprehensive warranty package.