2022 BMW 3 Series vs 2022 Nissan Sentra

The 2022 BMW 3 Series offered a range of models, including the 330i, 330e, M340i, M3, and M3 Competition, with base prices starting at $44,990 and reaching up to $93,500, excluding a $2,480 destination charge. Each variant featured a distinct powertrain, with the 330i xDrive sedan and 330e equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the M340i boasted a turbocharged six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology. The M3 and M3 Competition were the high-performance options. The M340i xDrive, tested in Barbera Red paint, featured Cognac-colour SensaTec upholstery and included packages like the Advanced Driver Assistance and Premium Enhanced. The M Performance exterior design, 19-inch wheels, and Shadowline trim added to its appeal. Inside, the SensaTec upholstery and technical design emphasized driving enjoyment over luxury.

The 2022 Nissan Sentra, redesigned in 2020, maintained its modern, coupe-like appearance, resembling a smaller Altima. It was a significant improvement over previous models, with a well-executed design language. The interior stood out with a simple yet functional layout, featuring easy-to-use controls and a central touchscreen. The Sentra offered trims like S, SV, and SR, each with varying features. The base S trim included essentials like a 7-inch touchscreen, while the SV added a larger 8-inch screen and additional conveniences. The SR trim featured sportier elements and special editions like the Midnight Edition, which added dark accents and unique styling.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series M340i was equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine, producing 382 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission with Sport mode and paddle shifters, and BMW's xDrive AWD system was standard. The M340i achieved 9.4 litres per 100 kilometres on the evaluation route, slightly above the official rating. It accelerated to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds, offering impressive speed and handling. The M Sport suspension and brakes contributed to its dynamic performance, making it a thrilling car to drive.

The 2022 Nissan Sentra featured a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 149 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque. It came with a six-speed manual transmission and FWD as standard, with a CVT available. The CVT managed power well, providing satisfactory low-end acceleration and highway performance. The Sentra's steering was well-weighted, and its suspension handled most road conditions adequately. While not a performance standout, it offered consistent performance for commuting and road trips.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series M340i provided power-adjustable front sport seats with excellent support and a perfect driving position. Rear seat passengers had adequate legroom, making it suitable for four tall individuals. The three-zone automatic climate control and heated seats added comfort. The 481-litre trunk and 40/20/40-split folding rear seats offered practicality, though a sports wagon variant would have been preferable.

The 2022 Nissan Sentra offered 404 litres of trunk space, expandable with a 60/40 split-fold rear bench. The trunk could be remotely opened, though it lacked a power-opening feature. The Sentra's two rows of seating provided ample headroom and legroom, with comfortable front seats. Interior storage included large in-door trays and cupholders, enhancing practicality.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series featured the optional Digital Cockpit Professional with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. BMW iDrive 7.0 was intuitive, offering multiple control options, including gesture control. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 10-speaker HiFi sound system. The Connected Package Pro added BMW Remote Services and the Intelligent Personal Assistant. A head-up display and advanced driver assistance features were available.

The 2022 Nissan Sentra came with a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the SV and SR trims offered an 8-inch screen. The system was user-friendly, with hard buttons and dials for navigation. However, it lacked wireless connectivity options. The graphics could use updating, but the system was functional and straightforward.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series included Active Guard, featuring forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and city-speed automatic emergency braking. The Traffic Jam Assistant and Emergency Stop Assistant were available for enhanced safety. The 3 Series earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, ensuring high safety standards.

The 2022 Nissan Sentra offered standard driver-assistance features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and blind spot monitoring. Additional features included a surround-view parking monitor and adaptive cruise control. The Sentra received a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS, with high ratings for crash safety and driver-assistance effectiveness.