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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  very satisfied - 2004 Nissan Sentra
  By ccrick43218 - March 23 - 2:00 am

  my second sentra good value great car, dont forget to compare this car with others in this class.

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  great handling, fun to drive - 2005 Nissan Sentra
  By Pete from Houston - March 22 - 5:03 am

  Had it for 3 years and have driven it hard. Two sets of tires and one set of brakes in 83K miles. You cant ask for more. Would have liked to have gotten better MPG (avg of 24 combined), but hey its a performance car. Nissan did their homework on the handling, and the engine is very responsive.

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  WHITESENTRA - 2004 Nissan Sentra
  By SONIAJW - March 16 - 2:00 am

  STEARING IS NOT VERY SMOOTH. SEATS ARE NOT VERY COMFORTABLE AN ARM REST WOULD BE HELPFUL. CENTRAL CONSOLE IS VERYSMALL SO YOUR ARE UNABLE TO USE IT AS AN ARMREST. I FEEL LIKE I AM IN AN UNCOMFORTABLE BED WITH NO POSITION THAT IS COMFORTABLE. FREEWAY DRIVING IS QUIT NOISEY,NOT AS QUIET AS MY SISTERS COROLLA.

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  2002 Spec-v - 2002 Nissan Sentra
  By Ed Wheat - March 15 - 10:00 am

  I must say this car hits the spot for bang for the buck. I just replaced my first spec-v after it was totaled from a head on collision at 35+mph. I walked away with only sore muscles and nothing else. The whole front end was smashed in but there was not damage done to the interior. I must hand it to Nissan for building such a safe car.

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  Not good as expected - 2011 Nissan Sentra
  By stevenzhuli - March 13 - 8:08 pm

  Like CVT acceleration, smooth. but not as expected as a new car feeling. especially low speed, don feel smooth move. Dealer said ABS is working. But I should not feel that thing is working.

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  Too many defects - 2006 Nissan Sentra
  By blair - March 13 - 9:16 am

  This was my 2nd Sentra and our familys 6th Nissan since 1988. I also purchased the same model/year for my daughter, which was clearly a mistake. This will be my last Nissan as both the quality and reliability have decreased tremendously! My daughter and I both have problems with the fuel pumps needing replaced multiple times because of a defect. We are getting ready to take our vehicles back to the dealership for the 3rd time for fuel pump issues. Belts had to be replaced at 20k miles, because as dealership said, "theyre inferior". Back window jammed due to defective part in door (back window was hardly used). These arent quality cars anymore.

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  Buy what you really want - 1997 Nissan Sentra
  By New Dad - March 11 - 10:00 am

  This is a smart, practical choice for a low-budget commuter with a small family. Gas mileage experienced was 3- 4 MPG above EPA estimates. Repairs were infrequent and inexpensive. You can put 4 tires on this car for $100! That being said, all 5-speed Sentra / 200SX have a design flaw in the gearbox. Third gear is notoriously weak, even in the SE-R. A new replacement transmission can run as high as $2,200. You may be able to get a used transmission installed for as little as $800, but thats on a car whose trade-in value is only $1,800.

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  WORST CAR EVER HAD - 2007 Nissan Sentra
  By too_swift - March 2 - 3:31 pm

  WHERE DO I START....THIS CAR HAS GIVEN ME PROBLEMS SINCE A WEEK FROM ME DRIVING IT OFF THE LOT. I BOUGHT THE CAR WITH 6 MILES ON IT AND IVE HAD THE FOLLOWING PROBLEMS..GAS COVER STUCK, 3RD TRANSMISSION, DEFECTIVE AIRBAGS, LIGHTS NOT WORKING INSIDE OF THE CAR, SHIFTER IN THE CAR CAME APART... MY SISTER HAS THE SAME CAR AND HAS HAD MOST OF THOSE PROBLEMS PLUS REPLACING HER STEERING COLUMN...NISSAN GAVE ME A HARD TIME TO FIX THESE ITEMS(THAT WERE UNDER WARRANTY) THE CAR IS NOT WORTH THE PRICE. IT HAS HAD MORE WEAR-N-TEAR DAMAGE COSTS THEN THE ACTUAL WORTH OF THE CAR. HAVE IT FULLY MAINTAINCED BEFORE BUYING THAT YEAR OF SENTRA. I TRADED IT IN WITH 46,000 MILES ON IT BECAUSE IT WAS TOO MUCH $!

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  Handling & Acceleration for Less - 2003 Nissan Sentra
  By tjsmithiii - February 25 - 2:00 am

  I got my fully loaded (sunroof, audio, abs, mats, & microfilter) 03 Spec-V a week ago and have no doubt that I made the right decision. Paid $18,064 /w $500 cash back at 1.9% APR. Acceleration and handling are fantastic, as well as the look /w the mesh grills and 17" wheels. Seats are comfortable yet supportive. Fosgate stero is incredible. Overall a great choice.

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  I love this car - 2008 Nissan Sentra
  By LovesHerSentra - February 24 - 8:20 pm

  The Sentra had everything I was looking for, fantastic fuel economy, power, economy and great styling. I drove the corolla as well, and there was just no comparison in how it felt. Upon taking the test drive, I knew immediately this was the car for me. The fuel economy is very good as well. Ive been getting 28-30 mpg on average with mixed driving, and up to 35 during pure highway driving. Did I mention its fun to drive? The CVT is so smooth and I feel that Im getting better fuel efficiency without sacrificing power. The styling is great. I think it looks like a much more expensive car. The convenience package is definitely a must.