2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs 2020 Nissan Sentra

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI was a masterclass in understated design. It appeared as an unassuming 5-door hatchback, but its honeycomb grille, red accents, and twin exhaust outlets hinted at its powerful performance. The GTI was available in S, Rabbit Edition, SE, and Autobahn trims, with prices ranging from $27,595 to $37,095. The Rabbit Edition, priced at $28,895, featured gloss black 18-inch wheels, a rear roof spoiler, and unique colors like Urano Gray and Cornflower Blue. Inside, the GTI's dashboard design and controls were straightforward, exuding quality with a touch of whimsy from the Clark Plaid cloth upholstery.

In contrast, the 2020 Nissan Sentra underwent a significant transformation, shedding its dowdy image for a more stylish appearance. The new Sentra resembled a scaled-down Altima, with a lower and wider body profile. The Electric Blue paint on the mid-level SV trim, with 16-inch alloy wheels and halogen headlights, made it stand out. The interior featured Nissan's Zero Gravity cushioning for the front seats, enhancing comfort on long drives. The Sentra's dashboard design, with its flat-bottom leather steering wheel and white-stitched leatherette dash, felt upscale, rivaling entry-level luxury cars.

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI was a performance enthusiast's dream. Its turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine produced 228 horsepower at 4,700 rpm and 258 pound-feet of torque from 1,500 to 4,500 rpm. The VAQ limited-slip differential, standard on all trims, maximized traction and reduced understeer. The GTI's handling was exceptional, thanks to its Bridgestone Potenza RE97AS P225/40R18 tires and progressive, variable-ratio steering. Acceleration was brisk, with the car reaching 60 mph without needing third gear. The GTI's ride was stiff, but the optional adaptive damping suspension improved comfort. Fuel economy was rated at 27 mpg combined, though real-world driving yielded 25.1 mpg.

The 2020 Nissan Sentra, on the other hand, featured a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine with 149 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While acceleration tapered off after 30 mph, the CVT mimicked gear changes smoothly. The Sentra's independent rear suspension improved handling and ride quality, making it feel controlled and comfortable. Steering was quick with good on-center feel, though not particularly sporty. Fuel economy was impressive, with an EPA rating of 29 mpg city, 39 highway, and 33 combined, and real-world driving averaging around 30 mpg.

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI was a versatile vehicle, ideal for families and driving enthusiasts alike. The front seats were height-adjustable with robust bolsters, available in plaid cloth or leather. The dashboard design was clear and functional, with ample storage options, including a cavernous glove box and deep door-panel bins. The backseat offered acceptable comfort, though leg space was tight. The trunk had a capacity of 22.8 cubic feet, which could be expanded to 52.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2020 Nissan Sentra offered a surprisingly spacious backseat, accommodating taller passengers comfortably. The front seats featured Nissan's Zero Gravity cushioning, reducing fatigue on long drives. The lowered body profile improved side visibility, though the rear window's rake limited the rear view. The trunk space measured 14.3 cubic feet, slightly smaller than the previous model but still generous for a compact sedan. The seatbacks folded to accommodate larger items.

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI's infotainment system included a 6.5-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on the S and Rabbit Edition trims. The SE trim offered an upgraded 8-inch display, HD Radio, satellite radio, and a Fender premium sound system. The Autobahn trim added a navigation system and a semi-autonomous parking assistant. The adaptive LED front lighting system was standard on all trims except the S.

The 2020 Nissan Sentra came with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and WiFi as standard on the mid-level SV trim, which also included additional USB ports and larger screens. The SV Premium Package and SR trim offered bright LED headlights. The SV trim featured dual-zone climate control, proximity-entry key, adaptive cruise control, and remote engine start. However, navigation, wireless charging, and ProPilot semi-automated driving were not available.

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI offered forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert as standard on the Rabbit Edition. The SE trim added Car-Net Safety & Security services, while the Autobahn trim included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and an active blind-spot monitoring system. The GTI received a 5-star rating from the NHTSA and high marks from the IIHS, though front passenger protection was rated as Acceptable.

The 2020 Nissan Sentra included a comprehensive suite of safety features, such as rear side airbags, knee airbags, forward and reverse emergency braking, pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, and auto high beams. A driver attention monitor was also standard. While the Sentra had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, it was expected to receive top ratings.