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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  One of the Worst cars ever owned - 2003 Nissan Sentra
  By themanindbox - March 17 - 9:51 pm

  I have owned over 18 cars thus far in my life. The worst by far either this car or the Cadillac I owned. I purchased this car used in 2005 with 27K miles on it. I only owned it till 2006. I sold it with 35K miles on it. It was a terrible car. (6 months) What broke in a year. Power windows (new motors) Door would not open due to cheap plastic clips in the door for the connection to the handle. Rattles in all the plastic Motor was burning oil due to bad piston rings. Seat adjuster broke and would not hold the recline adjustment. (I weighed at the time 135LBS) MPG was awful even when compared to a Roush Mustang. Left me stranded twice

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  2008 Nissan Sentra - 2008 Nissan Sentra
  By Lee - March 16 - 6:13 pm

  This car screams cheap build quality. Gas mileage is poor 25-28 mpg mostly highway. Uncomfortable driving position found this out over time (needs a telescoping wheel). Gray plastic interior shows every scratch from my fingernails. Looking to dump this car already. Looks great but looks are deceiving. The ride over small bumps knock you around like a wooden roller coaster.

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  Best Car Ever - 2001 Nissan Sentra
  By sentradriver - March 16 - 5:16 pm

  Purchased 12/18/2000. I dont drive much so my sentry only has 150k but it has been a great car. No motor or tranny probs. Recently developed a small intermittent starting problem that I believe to be fuel pressure regulator.love this car. Hate the 07-12 body style. Love the 13 so I might go with a 14

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  3Months - Not Raving but - 2008 Nissan Sentra
  By grif_57 - March 11 - 10:26 pm

  Second Review here. After 3500 miles. Here is how we feel about the car. Its very smooth. Period. The CVT is not bad to drive once you get used to pushing the throttle and letting it do its thing. I have had zero problems. Everything is working like day 1. Now a few suggestions. The arm rest stinks and the seat is a little soft but I like the height adjustment. Averaging over 30mpg, but I expected more. The readout on the dash is about 1.5 mpg optimistic. Got better with my VW Passat. The electric power steering feels a little soft. Overall I would still recommend this car.

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  What a subcompact!!!! - 2010 Nissan Sentra
  By bryandd08 - March 7 - 6:20 pm

  Maybe one day America will build a strong reliable subcompact!! Chevy cobalt??Test drove it,what junk!!Ford focus??Test dove it,I hit a small indent at a intersection at 35 mph,you had to hear the strut bang coming off the front left wheel!!Dealer pretended he did not hear anything!!!Honda civic,excelent car,but over-priced!! Toyota corolla, excellent car,but again over-priced!! Nissan sentra-S 2010,solid car,great quality,quiet,great build,and yes a strong history of strong reliability!! Had to wack the dealer somewhat,but eventually came close to my price!! What a car!!!! NISSAN DELIVERS!!

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  Better than an SUV or ordinary Compact - 2003 Nissan Sentra
  By MARCUS - March 4 - 10:00 am

  An exceptional car for the price. Gives you a real sports car feel. The 175 horse engine and 6 speed stick really move. The 17" performance tires and sports suspension hug the road like a tight leather glove. The interior is functional and user friendly and is enhanced by the Rockford Fosgate stereo. Bottom line - The Toyota Corolla is "cute", and the average SUV is so big you feel like youre sitting in your living room. This car ROCKS and makes you appreciate driving again.

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  Love my Sentra - 2003 Nissan Sentra
  By rbw - March 4 - 10:00 am

  Ive owned this car since late December. I have a little over 5,000 miles as of late April. I have had NO problems what so ever. My mileage has varied between 30 and 39. I commute 39 miles a day each way. Most of my miles are freeway miles with few hills. Im a big guy, 63" 230lbs. The car is comfortable. I got the synergy package. Its an incredible value. I also test drove a Toyota Corolla and a Mazda Protege. I liked those cars too. But, I got more car for the money with the Sentra. PS: It is a fun car to drive.

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  Love my Sentra - 2003 Nissan Sentra
  By RBW - March 4 - 10:00 am

  Ive owned this car since late December. I have a little over 5,000 miles as of late April. I have had NO problems what so ever. My mileage has varied between 30 and 39. I commute 39 miles a day each way. Most of my miles are freeway miles with few hills. Im a big guy, 63" 230lbs. The car is comfortable. I got the synergy package. Its an incredible value. I also test drove a Toyota Corolla and a Mazda Protege. I liked those cars too. But, I got more car for the money with the Sentra. PS: It is a fun car to drive.

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  SE-R Spec V < the sum of its parts - 2002 Nissan Sentra
  By Brandon Apmann - March 2 - 1:06 am

  I purchased this car spanking new and enjoyed its strong engine with gobs of torque (for 2.5 liters), loved the limited slip differential, lots of grip from the tires and suspension. I was excited to finally own a new car I could pamper and keep minty fresh. Well, the honeymoon didnt last very long. From day one, literally, I kept fresh (every 3,000 miles) Mobil 1 oil in it, but despite my efforts, the car burnt more oil than any car Ive ever owned, 2quarts every oil change. Also at about 30k to 40K the car lost a lot of power, started blowing black smoke which made it impossible to keep the bumper clean. Also, the clear coat started to peel @ 50K, making the car quite ugly.

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  Proud to say its ours - 2008 Nissan Sentra
  By rosey - February 21 - 4:20 pm

  We purchased this car from a used car shop and it only had 8,000 miles. We love the roominess and the wide front window. We have a black car and it looks so nice when we walk up to it somewhere. The real problem for us is that there is only a key entry on the drivers side. This is extremely inconvenient. If you are parked and want to put your elderly parent, young children, packages, poochie into the car you have to leave them there and go around into traffic. It was a stupid design "feature" and Nissan wasnt aware of it when I called. Go figure. They are to get back to me but I doubt it. Otherwise for driving around town it is pretty good.