Overview & Reviews

The Nissan Sentra has been vying for the wallets of economy-car shoppers since 1982. For most of that time, the Sentra's overall appeal and image have trailed the segment leaders. There have been periods, however, when this car has been one of the best choices available.

The latest Nissan Sentra is closer to the historic norm. It offers a roomy and high-quality interior and great fuel economy. On the other hand, it lacks the visual pizzazz and driver involvement of its competitors. Overall, this Sentra is a respectable ride, though it doesn't really stand out from the crowd. Much the same can be said of previous Sentra generations, but their good fuel efficiency and low upkeep costs make them solid budget-friendly options.

Current Nissan Sentra
The current Nissan Sentra comes standard with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder rated at 130 horsepower and 128 pound-feet of torque. Fuel economy is excellent and gets a hair better with the special FE+ model. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on the base model, but a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is specified on all other models.

There are four Sentra trim levels: S, SV, SR and SL. The base model S has air-conditioning, full power accessories and an auxiliary audio jack. The SV doesn't add much in the way of standard equipment, but rather increases the availability of options such as keyless ignition/entry, Bluetooth and a USB/iPod interface. The SR is essentially an SV with sporty design elements, while the SL comes standard with the SL's options, plus dual-zone automatic climate control. Other major options for the Sentra (depending on the trim level) include a sunroof, a premium audio system, a navigation system, smartphone app integration and leather upholstery.

In reviews, the Nissan Sentra has earned high marks for its interior. Nissan has taken a refined and conservative approach here, in contrast to many of its rivals with their youthful, funky vibes. Fit and finish is satisfactory thanks to decent materials and seemingly tight construction. The backseat deserves special mention for nearly matching midsize sedans in spaciousness. A comfortable ride quality is another plus. On the downside, however, the Sentra's acceleration is subpar, and in general it's not very involving to drive.

In total, the Sentra's pluses and minuses speak to the car itself. It's a more grown-up sort of small car that eschews look-at-me styling and zippy wannabe sports car dynamics for a sensible, comfortable and economical formula. It's not necessarily the stuff that dreams are made of, but we suspect it will appeal to many shoppers.

Used Nissan Sentra Models
The current, seventh-generation Nissan Sentra debuted for 2013. It's bigger, yet lighter than its predecessor, with a more refined style. The cabin boasts higher-quality materials, even more passenger space and a full roster of technology features. The engine actually has less power this time around, but it's more fuel efficient.

For the current Sentra's second year of production, Nissan implemented a handful of changes aimed at reducing noise and improving driving dynamics, while smartphone app integration was added via the NissanConnect interface. As such, shoppers considering a used 2013 Sentra would do well to sample a newer model, too, and see if the differences seem like they're worth paying for. We've noticed minor dynamic improvements in the revised version, including more athletic handling.

The previous, sixth-generation Nissan Sentra was produced from 2007-'12. It featured slightly larger dimensions than the fifth-generation model and employed Nissan's edgy design language of the time, giving it an extra serving of style. Thanks in part to its generous wheelbase, this Sentra had a roomier cabin than before, with adequate headroom and legroom for 6-foot passengers.

For much of this generation's production, there were six main trim levels: four variants based on the 2.0-liter engine (base, S, SR and SL) and two high-performance versions (SE-R and SE-R Spec V). All models but the SE-R got a 2.0-liter inline-4 that made 140 hp. The SE-R had a 2.5-liter four with 177 hp, while the SE-R Spec V had a modified version of the 2.5-liter engine that made 200 hp. A six-speed manual or CVT were the available transmission options, the latter available in all but the manual-only Spec V.

The base sixth-generation Sentra was pretty thin on features but did include power windows and locks as well as air-conditioning. Stepping up to the S added common items like power mirrors, a height-adjustable driver seat and an iPod interface (available for 2010 and later), while the SL went the extra mile with items like a leather-wrapped steering wheel, keyless ignition/entry and Bluetooth. The SL was also available with leather seating and a navigation system (2010 and later). The SE-R and Spec V trims featured performance-tuned suspensions, performance tires, larger brakes and sporty styling cues. The 2.0 SR introduced for 2009 essentially added a body kit and wheels inspired by the SE-R.
In reviews, we found that the sixth-generation Sentra offered an improved driving experience, although as with many of its predecessors, it could be described as being "close but no cigar" when compared to the best in class. The CVT made the engine drone noisily, and it provided no way for a driver to change or hold ratios on his own (except in the SE-R with its Manual mode). Another dynamic weakness was the car's suspension, which struggled to dampen bigger bumps and road undulations. The Spec-V was the one Sentra that provided stirring dynamics; it could run to 60 mph in just 6.7 seconds and offered plenty of grip during cornering. However, its tall body design introduced more body roll than expected from a compact car.

In terms of changes, sixth-generation Sentras made prior to 2010 had a different grille and headlights, and lacked standard stability control. There were also various standard and optional features added throughout its lifetime, many of which were high-tech items like Bluetooth that shoppers had come to expect. For 2009, the moniker "FE+" was affixed to all Sentras except the manual-transmission 2.0S and both SE-R trims. Ostensibly meaning "Fuel Economy Plus," the new name signified a 1 mpg increase in fuel economy for those Sentras via a tweak to the engine computer. These FE+ fuel economy improvements were standardized on all except the SE-R trims the following year.

Nissan's fifth-generation Sentra ran from 2000-'06. Available in sedan form only, it was initially available in base XE, nicely equipped GXE and top-of-the-line SE trims. All were powered by a 1.8-liter inline-4 with 126 hp, and power was sent to the front wheels via a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual gearbox. The sporty SE-R returned in '02, and there were two versions: the standard SE-R (165 hp, five-speed manual) and the hot rod SE-R Spec V (175 hp, six-speed manual, 17-inch wheels).

At the time, we praised this Sentra for its functional cabin design, nimble handling, many standard features and peppy SE-R trim level. Downsides included bland styling, an awkward driving position and a small backseat. This generation generally has a solid reputation as far as mechanical reliability, though anecdotal evidence suggests that the engine in the SE-R models was more trouble-prone.

The fourth-generation Sentra (1995-'99), with its low nose and high tail, was a styling departure from the straight-edged look of the previous car. Officially offered just as a sedan (the coupe version became the 200SX), this Sentra had more interior room than before. Trim levels consisted of a bare-bones base model, the slightly less stripped XE, the popularly equipped GXE, the luxury GLE and the sporty SE. All trims but the SE had a 115-hp engine, while the SE actually featured the same 140-hp engine as the previous SE-R.

The sporty SE-R debuted with the third-generation Nissan Sentra (1991-'94). Buyers had a choice of either a coupe or sedan, though both shared the same simple, boxy styling. With 140 hp, four-wheel disc brakes and a tuned, fully independent suspension, the Nissan Sentra SE-R coupe provided a lot of bang for the buck and was a favorite among driving enthusiasts. All other Sentras of this generation had a 110-hp engine and trims included the stripper E, base XE, sporty SE and well-equipped GXE.

Running from 1987-'90, the second-generation Sentra was available in a multitude of body styles, including a coupe, a sedan, a wagon, a hatchback and a Sport Coupe fastback. Engine output ranged from 69 to 90 hp, depending on the year.

User Reviews:

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  annoying but good - 2001 Nissan Sentra
  By thekid - December 23 - 10:00 am

  I bought my SE one year ago. Torn between hating it and loving it. Seems to have the consistent problems, squeaks, rattles, loose bumpers, weird noises. Problems I dont expect from a 16k car, even if its an economy car. But it starts every day, runs, handles great. Looks good. Paint does seem to chip and scratch very easily. Wish Nissan would acknowledge the common problems instead of the servicemen acting like I am the only one in the world with these problems. It is not quite like my old Civic SI, but then again my old Civic SI is not like the SE

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  Rear End Alignment - 2007 Nissan Sentra
  By BBG1 - December 21 - 6:20 pm

  I love the car. Never a days trouble with it... Except I was confused has to why I kept wearing through rear tires every 10-12k miles. Turns out the rear alignment is out and not adjustable. The dealer would not give me straight answer about fixing it under warranty unless I paid for a diagnostic check up for a hundred bucks. So I had a local garage install adjustable shims and do an alignment all for a $125 in one afternoon. No dealer hassle.

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  A great car, for a great price - 2006 Nissan Sentra
  By tthota - December 20 - 9:36 pm

  33+ mpg for 60% highway 40% local driving. 129@2400 torque delivers good acceleration, similar to VW Golf (122@2600), better than all other JPN, KRN and USA compact cars (about 120- 140@4000+). So, I dont have to floor the gas pedal and listen to the engine hauling at 4000 RPM all the time, as it is in a Civic. The Rockford audio system is super, worth $900, but included in the $433 special edition package, together with fog lights, spoiler, leather steering wheel, sporty grill and seats. The rear seats need more leg room, but most people use a Sentra as a 4-door coupe, with rear cup holders. As other compact cars, you can feel the wind, but very smooth ride in a nice day.

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  great car - 2000 Nissan Sentra
  By the technician - December 19 - 10:00 am

  A very good car.50,000 miles and no problems.A little slow off the line with automatic trans but over 60mph it flies.36 mpg highway,no complaints there.cant think of another car in this class I would rather have.I am a mechanic and have seen a lot more problems with Honda and Toyota.I am pleased.

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  Great car for the price - 2004 Nissan Sentra
  By ChaosKid420 - December 19 - 10:00 am

  Ive wanted this car since it first came out in 2002. Personally, I like the older body style a little better but the interior on the 2004+ is a lot nicer and is just more pleasing to the eye. Premium stereo isnt very premium. VERY quick car. LSD keeps it in line. 6- spd is quite fun. Stock tires lack grip in snow. Handles corners like a dream, minus the slight stiffness over some bumps. Beats most cars in its class.

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  Great 2006 Sentra - 2006 Nissan Sentra
  By MGD - December 18 - 9:06 am

  I am very pleased with my purchase. I have only had it for 1 month, but its a great car, fun to drive. stylish yet economical and after dreading a new car purchase for a long while, I am happy with all aspects of my purchase.

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  Very Happy With My Selection - 2008 Nissan Sentra
  By Unwind2 - December 15 - 5:43 am

  Bought the Sentra after looking at Honda Accord, Honda Civic, Toyota Carrola and Chevrolet Malibu. Im in my 50s so have owned several different makes, had a Nisson years ago that I kicked myself in the but for trading off. Ive been very happy with this Sentra. Some many things I like. Quiet ride, inteligent key...is real nice got spoiled to that in a hurry. I got the xm with fosgate stereo....awsome stereo.

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  My Sentra Rules! - 2007 Nissan Sentra
  By Poonhead - December 14 - 10:26 pm

  Ive had my Sentra for three weeks and have already put 1,500 miles on it. What a car! Its fuel efficiency overdelivers, if anything. I got 42 all the way to work today. It tends to perform best fuel-wise when youre going about 50-55 mph. I got the souped up version: sunroof, saddle colored leather seats, convenience package with bluetooth, trunk divider, CVT, etc. Its a pleasure to drive. I had a Saab 9-3 that was 7 year old and just completely falling apart with just 85,000 miles on it. I didnt even think Id be interested in a Sentra - went in to look at the hybrid Altima. But this car gets BETTER mileage than that hybrid, so whats the point? Buy a Sentra!

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  Great small car - 2006 Nissan Sentra
  By Jake - December 14 - 9:30 pm

  I just bought the 2006 Special Edition model for my daughter who is 19. I drove it home and that was the last Ive seen of it. The car is great to drive, the gas mileage is awesome and the SE package makes a big difference in looks. We compared it to several other cars and while a few others were just as good, no others could not even get close to the price.

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  Like my Sentra - 2001 Nissan Sentra
  By mchown - December 13 - 10:00 am

  This has been a reliable vehicle. I havent decided whether I will keep it when the lease is up or not. Have had 3 recalls, and the only other maintenance besides normal checkups, is getting front brakes replaced after 3 years. The tires are crummy, they definitely wont last another year, even with changing them over every Canadian winter! The fuel mileage is excellent, and its a safe and reliable touring car.