2003 Nissan Sentra Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.40/5 Average
206 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

For 2003, there is a new 2.5 Limited Edition trim, which includes GXE front fascia styling, the 165-horsepower QR25 4-cylinder engine, standard automatic transmission, standard Antilock Braking System (ABS) and side-impact supplemental airbags. The Sentra CA model is no longer available as all 1.8-liter engine-equipped Sentra XE and GXE models sold with California emission specifications offer zero evaporative emissions and meet SULEV (Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicles) standards. Other changes this year include a new power steering ratio for XE and GXE, a revised six-speed manual transmission for SE-R Spec V model and a new bright yellow exterior paint color for the SE-R and SE-R Spec V.

Pros:
  • Pleasing cabin design, SULEV emissions for California-sold cars, 165-horsepower SE-R sport version, fun to drive.
Cons:
  • Generic styling, Limited Edition and SE-R Spec V models command premium price.

User Reviews:

Showing 121 through 130 of 206.00
  • 2003 Sentra - 2003 Nissan Sentra
    By -

    I have had my Sentra for only 4 months now, but so far like it very much. I owned a Stanza previously for 17 years and that car was worth every penny. I am hoping that this one will carry on the tradition of dependability and quality build.

  • my first car...and im glad i bought it! - 2003 Nissan Sentra
    By -

    one car mag review described the se-r as "you never forget its a little car with a big engine", and i have to agree. ive gotten some positive comments on its appearance (i purchased mine in black). fuel economy isnt as good as the models with the smaller engine (id say it gets about the same MPG as the base model altima). no problems so far(except two factory recalls). the back seat could be a little roomier, but aside from that, it does perform well for its size and class.

  • Spec-V-iagra - 2003 Nissan Sentra
    By -

    If it wasnt for the fact that I managed to get myself smacked with $400 for what amounts to an economy car, Id be much happier. But I literally sold the car to myself so I shouldnt complain. This cars closest competition costs $5000 or so more (RSX type-S, Cooper-S.) I LOVE flying past Honda kids as theyre getting pulled over by Johnny Law. Thats until I got pulled over myself - doing 92 in a 50. Other than the temptation of impending traffic violations, this car is a fun, well built and thrifty little beast.

  • For the price, y not - 2003 Nissan Sentra
    By -

    i got this car in jan 2003 simply out of necessity. i had a 93 altima that was giving more problems as each day passes. budget was a concern so the cheapest, reliable vehicle was what i was looking for, looked at other sedans like civic and corrola but we stopped in nissan first and got a convinng salesman so we got it. pick up is slow, bumper sags, my nissan dealership likes to rip people off so i will not buy a nissan anytime soon.

  • Leoivench - 2003 Nissan Sentra
    By -

    The best small car on a market

  • A wolf in sheeps clothing - 2003 Nissan Sentra
    By -

    This is one of the most well made economy cars on the road today, with is sleek front end styling to its high spoiler this vehicle its a force to be reckoned with. I purchased this car after having an accident in my 97 BMW 328i and was forced to quickly find a cheap replacement... the anwser SE-R Spec V. This car delivers exceptional performance from quick take offs from a red lights to satisfying the urge to pass the slow driver on the interstate while in 6th gear... just give the gas a push and the car will respond well beyond your expectations. This is a great car for the $ and I would highly recomend it to anyone who likes to drive a car that will suprisingly eat a lot of others 4 lunch!

  • Best in its class - 2003 Nissan Sentra
    By -

    Had the car for 5 months now. Extremely fun to drive. I must say that my expectations were to high for this car, consequently I was disappointed with the tourque of the engine. Handling and braking are its bests points. Fuel consumption and rear leg room are its draw backs. For the price I paid, there is nothing that beats it. It is a beautiful car and it passed the Canadian test... starts at -45 degrees C, eh!

  • My review - 2003 Nissan Sentra
    By -

    My Nissan Sentra Spec-v has to be the funest car that i have ever driven and is also really relaible. The 6 speed transmission is really easy to shift and the clutch isnt to stiff or to soft it is just right.

  • Practical and fun. - 2003 Nissan Sentra
    By -

    I bought a used 2003 Spec V in April 2005. The car has 60,000km on it. I researched many cars and tried to decide which one was best for my situation. As a recent grad with a new condo, the Spec V was the best bang for the buck. Low profile tires make noise on bumpy roads. Handling is very good, low body roll. 4 doors make it practical. I looked at the 1.7 Acura EL and was turned off when I had 4 passengers, the car bottomed out whereas the Spec V does not with 4 passengers. Gas mileage not as good as anticipated but it could be the way I drive. Stereo sounds good. The brakes are good. Torque-steer not an issue unless youre driving too hard. I would reccommend this car to anyone.

  • GXE 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 4A) - 2003 Nissan Sentra
    By -

    I have no complaints with this vehicle. I traveled across country in it going an average of 65mph (following a moving truck) with the AC on and got over 40mpg. Doesnt handle well in the snow or on ice, but has been a terrific little car. Not much leg room in the rear, but fairly comfortable in front.

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