2022 BMW 3 Series vs 2023 Nissan Versa

The 2022 BMW 3 Series, particularly the M340i model, was a blend of performance and style. It featured a turbocharged six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, offering a dynamic driving experience. The exterior boasted a special-order Barbera Red paint, complemented by Cognac-color SensaTec upholstery, giving it a sophisticated look. The M Performance design elements, including exclusive grille and bumper designs, Shadowline trim, and blue brake calipers, added to its sporty appeal. Inside, the cabin was a mix of quality materials and technical design, focusing on driving enjoyment rather than luxury.

In contrast, the 2023 Nissan Versa adopted the design language of its larger siblings, the Sentra and Altima, giving it a more upscale appearance. The Versa SR model, with its Gray Sky Pearl paint and new wheel design, looked mature and stylish. The interior was creatively designed for a budget model, with large round air vents and an elaborate dashboard. Despite being an economy car, the fit and finish were commendable, and the SR trim added red stitching and upholstery inserts for a touch of flair. The Versa aimed to make daily commuting pleasant with its comfortable ride and decent handling.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series M340i was equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter 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, delivering power to the rear wheels through an M Sport differential. The M340i accelerated to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds, offering a thrilling driving experience with its precise steering and adaptive suspension. Despite its performance focus, it achieved 24.9 mpg on the evaluation route, close to the EPA rating of 26 mpg.

The 2023 Nissan Versa, on the other hand, was powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 122 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque. It came with a five-speed manual transmission on the base S model, while a CVT was optional on the S and standard on the SV and SR trims. The Versa's handling was satisfactory, with notable grip and responsive steering, though it exhibited body roll in corners. It provided a comfortable ride, making it a practical choice for daily commuting.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series offered a balance of driving satisfaction and passenger comfort. The M340i featured power-adjustable front sport seats with excellent support and a driver-focused cockpit. Rear seat passengers had adequate legroom, though the center rear seat was less practical. The 3 Series included a three-zone automatic climate control system and a 17 cubic-foot trunk with a 40/20/40-split folding rear seat for added utility.

The 2023 Nissan Versa, available only as a sedan, provided 14.7 cubic feet of trunk space in the base S trim and 15 cubic feet in the SV and SR trims. It offered more cargo space than some competitors, though a 60/40 split-folding rear seat was not standard. The front row felt spacious, with good visibility, but storage space was limited. The Versa's interior was practical, with a low dashboard and side glass aiding outward visibility.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series came standard with Live Cockpit Professional, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 10-speaker HiFi sound system. The iDrive 7.0 system was intuitive, with multiple control options, though the gesture control system was inconsistent. The M340i also offered a head-up display and advanced driver assistance features through optional packages.

The 2023 Nissan Versa S trim included a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and three USB ports. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available with the S Plus Package or higher trims. The SV added a 7-inch driver information display and wireless charging, while the SR featured an 8-inch touchscreen and six-speaker audio system. Despite its tech features, the Versa's touchscreens were small, and the graphics appeared outdated.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series included Active Guard, offering forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and city-speed automatic emergency braking. Optional packages added features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The 3 Series earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Nissan Versa excelled in standard driver-assist tech, with automatic emergency braking and lane-departure warning on the base S trim. The SV added blind-spot monitoring, and the SR included adaptive cruise control. The Versa received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, though updated IIHS ratings were not available.