2021 Nissan Sentra vs Versa

Attaining an affordable sedan with good handling, modern safety amenities, and advanced technology may seem to be impossible at times. Yet, the 2021 Nissan Sentra and the 2021 Nissan Versa make that acquisitions in a single vehicle possible. Joining Nissan's lineup as value-driven vehicles, the 2021 Sentra and the 2021 Versa are true gems that are often overlooked by buyers. Therefore, we think these two sedans are worth giving a second look to. The 2021 Nissan Sentra and the 2021 Nissan Versa are handsomely-styled and fuel efficient. In a crowded market segment, these two models stand out because of their design and comfort. If you are looking for a sedan that is the total package, the 2021 Nissan Sentra and the 2021 Nissan Versa fit the bill.

Nissan sedans are well-known for their laidback personalities and ability to fly under the radar. Although some models seek to stand out in a crowd, others are just fine blending in. Between these two Nissan sedans, the 2021 Nissan Versa is value-driven and conventional. This model is fine avoiding attention and focusing on performing its duties. Yet, the 2021 Nissan Sentra has the desire to stand out a bit. Its flashy exterior attributes, quick engine, and mature styling draw buyers into the resounding allure of its detailing. Each of these sedans has its own preferences on the attributes it finds essential to provide to customers. While each one does a good job of focusing on these areas, it is this intent that sets the 2021 Nissan Sentra and the 2021 Nissan Versa apart.

If you are looking for a trustworthy sedan that will last you for a long time, the 2021 Nissan Sentra and 2021 Nissan Versa are models worth considering.

Size and Styling

The general design of the 2021 Nissan Sentra and the 2021 Nissan Versa determines how much space for passengers and cargo each of these sedans have to offer. The 2021 Nissan Versa sits taller than the Sentra, so it has a bit more headspace to accommodate taller passengers. However, the 2021 Nissan Sentra has more space than the Versa in nearly every other area. The Nissan Sentra is wider, longer, and boasts a longer wheelbase than the Nissan Versa. These variances in size and stature affect the overall look of each sedan model. The 2021 Nissan Sentra appears more mature and distinguished, while the 2021 Nissan Versa is more value-focused and traditional.

Seating up to five passengers apiece, the 2021 Nissan Sentra and the 2021 Nissan Versa offer adequate accommodations for vehicles of their size. Yet, these vehicles make the most of what they are given and strive to provide a comfortable riding experience for everyone within their cabin. The Nissan Versa would have more head room if it were not for a sunroof, but this is a feature many buyers enjoy. The 2021 Nissan Sentra makes a statement with its incorporation of swanky zero-gravity seats, which offer space and support for passengers. Heated front seats are also available as an upgrade in the Sentra, as well as in certain packages of the Versa.

As an appreciated amenity, the 2021 Nissan Sentra and 2021 Nissan Versa promote spacious cargo area in their trunks. The Nissan Sentra can fit up to seven carry-on suitcases in its truck, while the Nissan Versa tries to match this with its accommodation of six carry-on suitcases. The 2021 Nissan Versa expands its capacity when its back seat is folded down and can hold 17 suitcases total with this layout. With similar trunk area, the 2021 Nissan Sentra is expected to hold the same. This is plenty of space for a family of five to stow their belongings for a weekend getaway, which is all we could ask for in a modern sedan model.

Drivability

Practicality is engrained within the very design of both the 2021 Nissan Sentra and the 2021 Nissan Verse. Yet, the way in which each vehicle incorporates this feature differs between these models. The 2021 Nissan Versa implements practical space and features without any upscale additions or charismatic revisions. This vehicle puts it all out there for buyers on a take it or leave it basis. The 2021 Nissan Sentra, however, puts a bit more thought into its practicality. For example, its three circular air vents that sit atop climate control buttons are both functional and modern. Also, quilted leather upholstery creates a luxurious look while promoting comfort. Every element within the 2021 Nissan Sentra is dual-purposes for aesthetics and convenience.

Under the hood, the 2021 Nissan Sentra and the 2021 Nissan Versa differ quite a bit, though. The Nissan Versa is demurer with its integration of a four-cylinder engine that can produce 122 horsepower and is paired with front-wheel drive. Base models are equipped with a five-speed automatic transmission, while higher trims gain access to an innovative CVT pairing. The 2021 Nissan Sentra takes it up a notch and includes a CVT as standard with every 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine each model is equipped with. Front-wheel drive also accompanies all Nissan Sentra sedans. Each of these models fall short in acceleration, and the 2021 Nissan Sentra is quite noisy when traveling at highway speeds. The 2021 Nissan Versa seems to avoid this calamity with its CVT, but the Sentra's CVT just does not offer the same sound deadening abilities.

There are also substantial differences in the way the 2021 Nissan Sentra and the 2021 Nissan Versa handle. To go along with its mature demeanor, the Nissan Sentra is rather stiff and rigid. Its independent rear suspension and large tires contribute to more control, but also more road noise. However, its braking system is top notch. The 2021 Nissan Versa excels in maintaining consistency. It absorbs shocks and jolts well, and it also promotes accurate steering. Feedback from the brake pedals is good, but not nearly what is offered in the 2021 Nissan Sentra which is hard to beat.

The main reason buyers opt for sedan models over any other vehicle type is because they are extremely fuel efficient. Perfect for commuting or just spending time on the road, the 2021 Nissan Versa and the 2021 Nissan Sentra will save you money at the pump and have you spent less time filling up your tank. Between these two, the 2021 Nissan Versa comes in at the top with its average of 32 city mpg and 40 highway mpg. The 2021 Nissan Sentra is exceptional compared to other sedans but falls short of what the Versa has to offer. Topping out at 29 city mpg and 39 highway mpg, the 2021 Nissan Sentra falls just short of the fuel economy the 2021 Nissan Versa offers.

Comfort, Options and Performance

Starting off basic and climbing through tiers of upscale amenities in their ascending trim levels, buyers can find an array of quality attributes and features within the 2021 Nissan Sentra and the 2021 Nissan Versa. To begin with, the 2021 Nissan Versa is much more basic in its entry-level model than the 2021 Nissan Sentra. The Versa is more functional and utility-driven than the accommodating and savvy Sentra. Yet, as we move through the trim options for these sedans, we begin to encounter the unexpected incorporation of premium amenities. A digital gauge cluster, hands-free entry, automatic climate control, and remote start can be found in the mid-level and higher trims of the 2021 Nissan Versa. However, buyers gain access to similar upscale amenities much sooner in the trim lineup of the 2021 Nissan Sentra. Heated front seats, dual zone automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped shifter, and sunroof are highlights of this premium sedan.

Technology abounds in many modern sedans, but the 2021 Nissan Sentra and the 2021 Nissan Versa are hindered in this area by a focus on other aspects. Out of the two, the Nissan Sentra is more equipped and offers a vaster array of tech amenities than the 2021 Nissan Versa. A standard 7.0-inch touchscreen stands out from the dash of the base Nissan Sentra, which is quickly upgraded to an 8.0-inch touchscreen in higher trims. The Nissan Versa sticks with a standard 7.0-inch touchscreen across all trims, in comparison. SiriusXM radio is available on all Sentra's above the base model, but this feature integration is not added in until later for Versa models. In all, there are not significant differences in the tech of the 2021 Nissan Sentra and the 2021 Nissan Versa.

Safety

All buyers love standard safety amenities, which can be widely found in the 2021 Nissan Sentra. Nearly all its driver assistive safety features come standard across all models. These enhancements include forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring, to name just a few. The list of driver assistive safety features for the 2021 Nissan Sentra goes on and on. This may be why this sedan was awarded a five-star safety rating by the NHTSA, which considers safety feature availability and structural integrity in its rating system. The 2021 Nissan Sentra was not, however, named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. This means it did not perform as well as hoped in crash testing efforts.

Similarly, the 2021 Nissan Versa was not named as a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, either. In fact, this version of the Versa has not yet been rated or tested by the NHTSA, either. This can make it difficult to accurately compare the 2021 Nissan Sentra and the 2021 Nissan Verse. What we do know about the match up of these two models is that the 2021 Nissan Versa has far less standard driver assistive safety features. Blind-spot monitoring, rear-cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control are only offered as available upgrades for the Versa, which is a bit disheartening for potential buyers.

Which Model to Choose?

The ultimate decision between purchasing a 2021 Nissan Sentra or a 2021 Nissan Versa is up to everyone. We simply strive to provide you with all the information necessary to make an informed decision. Each of these sedans has their own strengths and weaknesses that should be evaluated prior to making a purchase. Although they are competitive, the Sentra and the Versa are not identical and must be considered as such.

The 2021 Nissan Versa is exemplary for those in search of an affordable sedan. It is less costly than the 2021 Nissan Sentra, but it still incorporates many attributes the Sentra offers. Smaller in size and more fuel efficient, the 2021 Nissan Versa is great for city driving or commuting. Its conventional interior and user-friendly attributes can be appreciated for what they are, too. The Nissan Versa does not go out of its way to be something it is not. What you see is what you get in this simplistic sedan.

If you are looking for something a bit more mature and refined, the 2021 Nissan Sentra is a better match. From its color schemes to its interior comfort to its tech amenities, the Sentra maintains its affordability while adding in fun styling attributes. It is serious, yet innovative, which is the perfect mix for business professionals or mature adults. The 2021 Nissan Sentra focuses on blending upscale aesthetics with comfort and convenience throughout its cabin.

In our opinion, the vast array of quality selections and innate safety features of the 2021 Nissan Sentra make it the better choice between these two models. While the end selection is up to you, this is our conclusion after comparing the 2021 Nissan Sentra and the 2021 Nissan Versa.