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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  Surprisingly ...Great! - 2005 Nissan Sentra
  By rivasmmm - October 12 - 2:00 am

  I originally wanted the reliability that comes with buying a Honda...but the prices were outrageous! I went for a test drive in the Spec V and was blown away; excellent acceleration, planted feel, convenience of a sedan while offering handling like a coupe sports car. I love the Nissan brand now and recommend Nissans to all my friends! Ive had the car for one year and put 29000 worry-free and trouble-free miles on the car. The gas tank takes me about 300 miles +/- 50 miles depending on my driving style. Its agile, easy to park and easy to maintain myself. Acceleration is instantaneous and the interior feels like that of a more $$$ car. Very supportive

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  Excellent buy - 2008 Nissan Sentra
  By CTM - October 11 - 12:06 pm

  Wondering about MPG? If I keep my foot out of it I can average 30 mpg. Usual avg is 27. I get 36 mpg hwy in 6th going 55-60 mph. It can run on regular, no problems, but I use premium for more power. I installed an Injen CAI and it SIGNIFICANTLY made more power. Worth every penny and with about 3 months of use no problems. The seats are very comfortable on long trips. The trunk is huge. The glove box is huge. I outrun CooperS, GTI, VR6 no problems. The affordable price is great. Not as fast as a Speed3 but it costs $5-$6k less. Avoid the Rockford stereo. It sounds good when not moving. But roll windows down and it is easily drowned out. Tires are great dry, bad in snow.

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  Good Car, Bad Trim - 1996 Nissan Sentra
  By Mamajones - October 10 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car used with 39000 miles and have NEVER had a major problem. It now has 109K and shows no signs of slowing. The major gripe we have is the interior is not as well designed as we would like. It seems that every couple of weeks we find a "mystery" piece of plastic or molding that fell off from somewhere. Also has problems with exterior paint chipping and slight rust. Paint is bubbling and peeling in spots. Good gas mileage. Averaged 33 mpg on the last long distance trip. We average about 300 miles per tank for normal driving. Would recommend as a good basic car.

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  Fully Satisfied! - 2010 Nissan Sentra
  By Stephikins - October 5 - 5:30 pm

  I have had the car for over a month now and I love it. Great for someone who spends a lot of time driving. Best design and performance for its price. I average 30.8 mpg driving 35% highway 75% city. I looked at the Corolla, Fit, Versa, Elentra, Forte, and this one takes the cake in style, features, power, & ride. Best interior design with so much storage, easy access, & plenty of room. I went with the S style with the convenience package so I have the smart key that I highly recommend! Smoothest and quietest ride. You get the most car for your money! So relaxing to drive. The quality and extra features make me feel like I bought a much more expensive car. Nissans are reliable!

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  The smart choice! - 2002 Nissan Sentra
  By Niamhx - October 5 - 10:00 am

  Bought the car new 9/02, ripped 25k out of it as of 6/03 and its as good as new. Mechanically very sound little car, classy interior that blows Civic and Saturn away. Cant beat the price either and at 38mpg highway, its environmentally sound as well. Drove it from Charlotte NC to Washington DC during Presidents Day Storm and the traction is GREAT, I passed spun-out SUVs left and right. Worth your money.

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  Got what I paid for and more - 2003 Nissan Sentra
  By wwjd180 - October 5 - 10:00 am

  Considering the fact that my old Sentra drove 193,000 before someone turned into the front of it,I went out to purchase another one.I purchased it with the Synergy package and the side airbags/anti lock brakes.I do wish that Nissan would work on the overall build quality with the sentra.For example, the window trimming would become disaligned upon lowing the rear window.The dealer fixed it immediately.The car is quick in comparison to the others in its class. The car is certainly fun to drive, and the sound system is wonderful. Be careful however of the stiffer steering wheel which took me some getting used to, as well as the slight torche steer.

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  Not Satisfied - 2013 Nissan Sentra
  By 1srac - October 4 - 6:44 am

  Bought my Nissan Sentra Dec of 2012. A week later i took it back cause the rubber seal around the front window came off. Took it to go looked at cause i can never get my music to bluetooth. took it back again cause while driving it, it felt like it was going to bog out and die. (Friend drove my car and freaked out) they couldnt re create it! took it back again for a sensor re call in the passenger seat that linked to the air bags not deploying!! Got that fixed. Then took it back, cause i was driving it home and the car lost all power and would not go past 2000 RPM.(Couldnt find anything wrong) Ran out of space for everythingOverall I dont like the car. Gonna get me something else here soon.

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  Solid dependable car - 2002 Nissan Sentra
  By David Bustamante - October 2 - 5:30 pm

  This version of the Sentra combines nimble handling, quiet ride, plush interior, and great gas mileage. Zero mechanical problems in 20 months of driving. The improved engine is problem-free and provides plenty of power.

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  good car for the price - 2004 Nissan Sentra
  By punchie - September 28 - 10:00 am

  I just purchased my 1.8s loaded nissan 2 days ago and so far I am very impressed with the changes/updates to the Sentra! This is my 1st Nissan and my car looks like a smaller Altima to me!! So far so good but Ill be looking out for those aformentioned mechanical problems @ 60k.

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  The Great Experience - 2010 Nissan Sentra
  By Dino Hull - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I have had the Nissan Sentra for approximately two months and I have truly enjoyed my experience. It is such a smooth driving vehicle with a nick "kick" for a 4-cylinder. I particularly was amazed at the amount of interior space. We have already taken a few short road trips and the seating room was surprising. Most significantly, my wife and I had the most pleasurable car buying experience weve ever had. Salesman at Jim Keras was AWESOME! He was attentive to our needs. He did not play the cat and mouse game that car salesmen are known to play between the customer and the finance manager. There was no high pressure sales pitch to buy what we could not afford. I was thoroughly pleased.