2021 Nissan Sentra vs 2022 Audi A4

The 2021 Nissan Sentra, in its eighth generation, presented a bold and athletic exterior, a significant departure from its earlier, more conservative designs. The V-Motion grille and expressive headlights gave it a serious look, while the availability of vibrant paint colours and two-tone schemes added flair. Inside, the Sentra offered a spacious feel with a well-positioned 8-inch infotainment touchscreen and a flat-bottomed steering wheel that enhanced comfort. The rear seats were roomy, though best suited for two passengers, and the trunk provided ample cargo space with a 60/40 split for larger items.

In contrast, the 2022 Audi A4 exuded a simple, clean, and conservative aesthetic, serving as a perfect canvas for its striking Tango Red paint and Black Edition package. The interior maintained a restrained elegance with high-quality materials and a 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit. Despite the snug cabin and limited rear legroom, the A4 offered a comfortable driving position with adjustable features. The trunk, though smaller than the Sentra's, was well-finished and practical, with storage nets and enclosed hinges.

The 2021 Nissan Sentra was powered by a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, producing 149 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque. It featured front-wheel drive with an Xtronic CVT, offering adequate performance for city driving. The Sentra's lightweight design contributed to its fuel efficiency, with consumption rates of 8.0 L/100 km city and 6.0 highway for the S and SV models. The suspension and steering provided tidy road manners, making it a fun drive despite its modest power.

The 2022 Audi A4 offered two engine options: the 40 TFSI with 201 horsepower and the 45 TFSI with 261 horsepower. Both engines used a seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission and Quattro Ultra AWD. The 45 TFSI model, with its sport suspension, accelerated to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds, offering a dynamic driving experience. The A4's efficiency-focused AWD system and driving modes enhanced its performance, while the brakes and steering provided a solid and engaging feel.

The 2021 Nissan Sentra's interior was designed for practicality, with well-placed features and ample storage options. The Zero Gravity front seats offered comfort for long rides, and the heated front seats were standard. The Sentra's interior space was generous, with big door pockets and a large glove compartment, making it a practical choice for everyday use.

The 2022 Audi A4, while offering a comfortable front seating experience, had a snug cabin with limited rear legroom. The interior featured a three-zone climate control system and intuitive switchgear. However, storage space was limited, with the centre console bin occupied by the wireless charging pad. The A4's cargo space was well-finished, with storage nets and grab handles for convenience.

The 2021 Nissan Sentra came with a standard audio system, upgraded in higher trims, and included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The 8-inch touchscreen in SV and SR trims provided a user-friendly interface, though navigation was not available.

The 2022 Audi A4 featured the next-generation MIB3 Audi Multi-Media Interface with a 10.1-inch touchscreen. It supported smartphone functions and included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The A4's tech package also offered a Bang & Olufsen audio system, navigation, and a head-up display, providing a comprehensive and intuitive user experience.

The 2021 Nissan Sentra was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including multiple airbags, a tire pressure monitoring system, and Nissan Safety Shield 360. It received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS.

The 2022 Audi A4 offered a range of safety features under the Audi Pre Sense umbrella, including collision preparation, lane assistance, and adaptive cruise control. It also received top safety ratings, with a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.