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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  EX-Car Salesman - 2008 Nissan Sentra
  By EX-CAR Salesman - August 20 - 5:23 am

  After selling KIAs for about a year, my wife and I decided to purchase a new car for our new beginning family, I researched all vehicles, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Ford, Hyundai, KIA, Chevy, etc. We fell in love with this one and purchased the Blue tooth, I have never been happier in my life, it has helped especially having a one year old son. Great handling and speed, we feel safe in the car, I would highly recommend this car, and I had a 1995 Nissan Altima with 224,000 Miles and traded it in, Nissan makes a great car, although it could use a better warranty like a KIA or Hyundai. Its safe reliable, and it has the most turn and interior room of its class!

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  2001 Nissan Senra XE - 2001 Nissan Sentra
  By ROBERT LINS - August 2 - 1:26 am

  Great car, reliable, dependable, and comfortable. The selling dealer tried to cover up cosmetic flaws poorly (they show up now) but overall the car is great. Love the mechanical durability and the timing CHAIN. Wish it had a tachometer.

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  Great little car, cute. - 1999 Nissan Sentra
  By Sue - July 25 - 5:26 pm

  This is my first car and I bought it at 6 years old about 5 months ago. It had no problems when I bought it and still has no problems although Ive taken it on a several road trips since .. Pittsburgh to Philly, Philly to DC and back. It feels comfortable and is nice to drive and its small so its great for parking but not too small as to get intimidated on the highways. I love my car :)

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  Love it! - 2006 Nissan Sentra
  By good vehicle - July 24 - 6:56 pm

  I love this car. It was the first brand new car Ive ever purchased on my own. Its perfect for my budget (Im a college student) and its incredible reliable. I had a 98 Sentra in high school and had not a single problem. So far Ive had no problems with this car. I absolutely love it.

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  Go for it - 2009 Nissan Sentra
  By chacama - July 24 - 3:40 pm

  These current Sentra models are mid The new Sentras rock!. CVT is real smooth and have not had any problems with what some call "rubberband effect" (have not experienced it on this car yet!). Before deciding for this car i drove the Mazdas 3 & 5, Toyota Yaris & Camry, a VW and the Nissan Versa but ultimately decided for this car because its good mileage, driveability and specially comfort... the lines looks somewhat similar to a Lexus.

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  Discrepancies of the 04 Sentra SE-R - 2004 Nissan Sentra
  By Ephram - July 24 - 2:00 am

  I myself am a proud owner of a 2004 Nissan Sentra SE-R Auto. The car is unbelievably fast for my taste. Not knowing how to drive a manual didnt prevent my purchase from the Spec-V model but the auto version is much more at ease due to its convenience of gas and brake go. The interior design is useful, not too sporty yet not too dull either. Interior controls seem to be right or close to the right places for convenience. Rear-seat room could definitely have been improved. The only drawbacks I found w/this car was exterior front design, rear-seat room, and it being a four-door vehicle. Wouldve preferred the vehicle to be a coupe.

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  An Honest to Goodness 200K car - 2000 Nissan Sentra
  By joelw1957 - July 22 - 2:00 am

  I drive 91 miles (one way) to work. I bought this car for economy and reliability. I expected durability from Nissan. I have 85K miles on this car and have had one repair bill of $116. This car averages 30 mpg in town and 33-37 mpg on the highway (A/C causes the lower number). I have a 20 year-old son and a 17 year-old son. Keeping them out of my car is almost impossible.

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  The All New Sentra Rocks! - 2007 Nissan Sentra
  By Eric - July 21 - 8:56 am

  The Only Thing that is the same with last years Sentra is the Name. The Sound system Rocks. The ride and feel is great, The Best Sentra EVER! This is a real CAR. It is much more than a ride from point a to point b vehicle. This a REAL CAR.

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  Nice Car for this price - 2004 Nissan Sentra
  By suraj - July 18 - 2:00 am

  this is best commute car for the money you pay. very reliable and good build

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  best car in the world!!!!!!!!!! - 2004 Nissan Sentra
  By toes442 - July 18 - 2:00 am

  love it alot great ride