What are the differences between the 2021 Sylphy and the 2020 model?

[DeMariana]

Sylphy 2020 model and 2021 model have the following differences: 1. Different dimensions. The 2020 Sylphy has a length, width, and height of 4641mm, 1815mm, and 1450mm respectively; the 2021 model measures 4631mm, 1760mm, and 1503mm. 2. Different engines. The 2020 Sylphy is equipped with a 1.6L 139 horsepower L4 engine; the 2021 model features a 1.6L 122 horsepower L4 engine. The 2021 model's engine has a maximum power of 99kw, maximum torque of 159 N·m, top speed of 186 km/h, 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 12 seconds, and rear brake type of disc. The 2020 model's engine has a maximum output power of 102kw, maximum torque of 169 N·m, top speed of 190 km/h, 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 11.5 seconds, and rear brake type of drum.

[OWillow]

I recently researched these two models, so let me talk about the upgrades in the 2021 Sylphy. Exterior-wise, the 2021 model features a bolder front grille that looks more spirited, and the wheels have been updated to a new design. The interior changes are even more significant—the 2021 model comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen across all trims, whereas the 2020 base model only had a 7-inch screen. The new Nissan Connect system is a standout addition, allowing voice control for navigation and music playback, as well as remote air conditioning activation via smartphone, which is especially handy in summer. The manual transmission has been discontinued across the lineup in favor of automatic transmissions, making it much more beginner-friendly. Safety features have also been upgraded, with higher trims gaining pre-collision braking and automatic high beams, though the price is a few thousand higher than the 2020 model. The 1.6L engine remains unchanged but now meets the stricter China VI-B emission standards for better environmental performance. If your budget allows, I’d recommend going straight for the 2021 model—the tech upgrades are very noticeable.

[OWalter]

As a family car user, I find the 2021 model more worry-free compared to the 2020 version. The upgrades focus on daily practical features: the standard 8-inch central control screen is more user-friendly, while the 2020 base model had a smaller screen without navigation. The Super Smart Connect system is quite handy—I can turn on the air conditioning via my phone before taking the kids out, so the car isn't stuffy when we get in. Safety-wise, the auto-hold function has been added, so I don't have to keep pressing the brake at red lights, which reduces foot fatigue. There's an extra USB charging port in the back row, so no more fighting over the front ports for charging. The exterior hasn't changed much, but the 2021 model's headlights have a sharper design. The engine remains the 1.6L naturally aspirated, with fuel consumption staying about the same—sufficient for city commuting. A notable difference is that the 2021 lineup is all automatic; if you want a manual, you'll have to look for a used 2020 model.

[DeJackson]

The 2021 Sylphy mainly updates its configuration list. The infotainment screen is upgraded to 8 inches across all trims, with voice control for music and navigation. The Nissan Connect system supports smartphone app remote control, allowing pre-starting the air conditioning—super practical. For safety features, higher trims add IEB pre-collision system, while gaining auto hold and adaptive headlights over the 2020 model. Exterior tweaks include redesigned grille chrome accents and new wheel designs. No major changes to the powertrain, though the 1.6L engine is tuned for better fuel efficiency. The biggest shift is the discontinuation of manual transmission across the lineup, with slightly refined interior craftsmanship. A downside: fog lights are removed from base trims. We recommend focusing on the ProPILOT edition—about ¥5,000 pricier than equivalent 2020 trims but packed with significantly more features.

[Kaylee]

After driving my friend's 2020 model and then switching to my 2021 Sylphy, I immediately noticed the upgraded details. The steering wheel now has a soft wrap, making it more comfortable to grip. The automatic air conditioning is such a thoughtful addition—the 2020 model required manual temperature adjustments. The most pleasant surprise was the remote control feature; by the time I finished brewing coffee at home in winter, the car seats were already heated. The rear USB ports are incredibly convenient for charging, ensuring my phone never runs out of battery when I'm out with the kids. Externally, the V-shaped chrome grille on the 2021 model is more three-dimensional, and the body-colored door handles add a touch of sophistication. Although the engine and transmission remain unchanged, the elimination of the manual option in favor of an all-CVT lineup makes for a smoother drive. The suspension seems to have been optimized as well, reducing the bumpiness over speed bumps. The only downside was the stronger new car smell compared to the 2020 model, which took a while to dissipate.

[DeEmerson]

Focus on the core component changes in the 2021 Sylphy. The engine remains the HR16 1.6L, but the ECU software has been upgraded to meet the latest China 6b emission standards. The manual transmission option has been discontinued across all trims, which simplifies maintenance. The body structure sees no major modifications, though the front crash beam appears reinforced. Significant updates were made to the electrical system with the addition of a remote control module, potentially complicating aftermarket wiring modifications. Auto Hold comes standard, protecting the transmission during traffic stops. Electronic features see notable upgrades—even the base model gets an 8-inch touchscreen. Prices are slightly higher than the 2020 model, but maintenance costs remain comparable. The mid-trim 2021 model is recommended, as its added Super Intelligent Connect system offers great value over the equivalent 2020 version.