2021 Nissan Sentra vs 2021 Toyota Corolla

The 2021 Toyota Corolla, particularly in its SE and XSE trims, was noted for its attractive design, a significant departure from previous generations. Sporting features like sport-design bumpers, a mesh grille insert, and 18-inch aluminum wheels, the Corolla presented a sporty and appealing aesthetic, especially in Celestite metallic paint. However, some design elements, such as the hood shut line and the over-styled rear bumper, were seen as detracting from its overall appearance. The Corolla offered a range of trims, including the more anonymous L, LE, and XLE, as well as a hybrid version. The sporty SE and XSE trims featured a more powerful engine and sportier styling, with the XSE test car priced at approximately $30,771 Canadian, including destination and fees. Inside, the Corolla XSE's interior was praised for its quality materials and minimalist design, though it lacked practical storage solutions.

The 2021 Nissan Sentra, entering its eighth generation, showcased an athletic exterior with crisp lines and a bold V-Motion grille. Available in six exterior paint colours, including vibrant options like Monarch Orange Metallic, the Sentra's design was further enhanced by two-tone paint schemes on the SR trim. The Sentra's interior featured a layered dash with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen on SV and SR trims, and a flat-bottomed steering wheel added a sporty touch. The second row offered ample space for two passengers, though the centre seat was less comfortable. The Sentra's trunk provided 404 litres of cargo space, with a 60/40 split rear seat for additional flexibility. Overall, the Sentra's design and interior features were well-received, offering a balance of style and practicality.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla SE and XSE models were equipped with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. The Dynamic Shift CVT, paired with paddle shifters and a Sport driving mode, provided a smooth driving experience, with the option of a six-speed manual gearbox on the SE trim. The Corolla's TNGA platform contributed to its low centre of gravity and enjoyable driving dynamics, with electric steering and a MacPherson strut front, multi-link rear suspension. Despite its modest power, the Corolla XSE offered predictable handling and a fun driving experience, with fuel efficiency rated at 7.0 litres per 100 kilometres combined.

The 2021 Nissan Sentra featured a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated engine, delivering 149 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive with an Xtronic CVT provided adequate performance for daily driving, with manual transmission options available for the S and SR trims. Weighing between 1,349 and 1,411 kilograms, the Sentra was relatively lightweight, contributing to its fuel efficiency of 7.1 litres per 100 kilometres combined for S and SV models. The Sentra's suspension and steering offered tidy road manners and cornering, making it a practical choice for commuting and city driving.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla XSE offered several interior upgrades over the SE trim, including SofTex leatherette seats, heated rear seats, and an eight-way power driver's seat. While the front passenger seat lacked height adjustment, it provided good thigh support. The rear seats offered decent support but limited headroom and legroom, with no climate control vents for rear passengers. The Corolla's trunk provided 371 litres of cargo space, with no interior handle for closing the trunk lid.

The 2021 Nissan Sentra's interior was praised for its well-placed features, including an infotainment touchscreen and traditional gear selector lever. The Sentra offered ample storage options, such as big door pockets and a roomy glove compartment. The Zero Gravity front seats provided comfort for long drives, with heated front seats standard and a power-adjustable driver's seat available on the SR Premium grade. The Sentra's interior design and features contributed to a comfortable and practical driving experience.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla came standard with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth connectivity, along with a year of Safety Connect services. The SE trim featured an 8-inch touchscreen, while the XSE added Service Connect and Remote Connect, offering features like remote engine starting and vehicle alerts. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with physical knobs and buttons for easy navigation.

The 2021 Nissan Sentra offered a standard audio system with AM/FM/USB and four speakers, upgraded to six speakers and SiriusXM capability on SV and SR trims. A premium Bose system was available on the SR Premium. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with a 7-inch touchscreen on the S trim and an 8-inch touchscreen on SV and SR trims. While navigation was not available, smartphone connectivity provided access to navigation apps.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The addition of rear side-impact airbags and a blind-spot warning system with rear cross-traffic alert enhanced safety. The Corolla received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA for the 2020 model.

The 2021 Nissan Sentra included a comprehensive array of safety features, such as dual-stage front airbags, side-impact airbags, and a tire pressure monitoring system with Easy-Fill Tire Alert. Nissan Safety Shield 360 offered features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot warning. The Sentra received a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS.