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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  Average Small Car, but reliable - 2004 Nissan Sentra
  By mags - June 2 - 2:00 am

  Bought the car new, so far im pleased. Havent had any problems with it unlike my previous 2 cars. Powerful lil car for a V4. The 180watt sound system is amazing. For a small car though, it really eats up gas. For an automatic u can really tell when it is switching gears cause u feel it big time. Itll shake or jerk itself which is a real annoyance. Overall though, its a reliable little car. Needs some improvements though.

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  Pleased as can be - 2001 Nissan Sentra
  By Pleased as can be. - June 1 - 10:00 am

  I got this car right before I left for college, brand new. It has been absolutely wonderful. I have had to take it in a couple times for minor, car particular problems (ie cruise control cover came off, drivers side window started acting crazy). I think its a nice looking car and heads above the competition. We looked at Corollas as well and they arent near the car the Sentra is. I love the interior; I think it doesnt look like the inside of a base, economical compact car.

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  Yummie + more.... - 2002 Nissan Sentra
  By FriarTuck - June 1 - 10:00 am

  Nice power machine for a price. Recommended to any one whos looking for fun drive for under 20K. Needs restyling of the rear lights. A bit ugly. Overall very fun car to drive. Needs bigger gas tank thou.

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  Good Car for the Money - 2001 Nissan Sentra
  By PirateJake - May 31 - 6:20 am

  Lots of headroom for tall people, peppy SR20 engine, sure it rattles and is noisy but it cost next to nothing and is pretty quick for what it is. 105k miles no real problems. Low quality paint. I have had it since the showroom floor and plan to keep it for quite a while longer. Excellent college student car. I commute into Minneapolis every day in it. Civic reliability with Saturn prices. Go for the 5 speed in the charcoal grey or black. Replace the Firestone tires with some Yokohamas. I hit a deer years ago and the car still runs like the day it was new. Five stars for the money.

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  my first new sentra - 2004 Nissan Sentra
  By deborah cox - May 28 - 10:00 am

  my new car is great!!! It drives and handles like a luxury car. This is my 3rd nissan and I would not hesitate for a second to get another one.

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  What a deal! - 2006 Nissan Sentra
  By Jenny V - May 27 - 11:33 am

  I knew the 2007 Sentra was a complete redesign, and I always wanted a 2.5 Sentra. The dealer had a SpecV that listed for almost $20,000, but after all the incentives I saved thousands. This car ROCKS. Runs like a rabbit and still gets great gas mileage. Stereo sounds super. People call it outdated, but I still think the SpecV looks awesome. Mine is the Volcanic orange color. I recommend snapping up one of the 06 models before the 07 hits the lots. The dealers are selling a great little car for a song to make room.

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  Love most of it - 2005 Nissan Sentra
  By sammy63 - May 24 - 6:16 pm

  I bought this car used, and bought it mostly for the gas mileage. I figured if its smaller and less sporty than I wanted it would make up the difference in the mileage. As of today, I am very happy with the purchase, I love the gas mileage it gets (34-40) each tank gets about 37 mpg average. The features are great and so far the only money I have put into this car is for oil changes, brakes and a sensor (which was a bit pricey) for the fuel injector (car had a hard time starting). I now have over 70,000 on it and plan on taking it on a 1200 mile trip, but from reading other reviews, I am concerned about the head gasket. Well... Im going to take the trip and hope for the best. Great car!!

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  Happy SE-R owner - 2008 Nissan Sentra
  By Darren - May 24 - 12:30 am

  I picked up the SE-R in May of 2008 to replace my 2000 Grand AM GT. This car is well worth it. Excellent mileage. It looks great, not too over the top. Acceleration is brisk, but not rocket fast. It handles well with a sporty feel, corners better than my Grand Am GT ever did. The interior is roomy and can fit 3 booster seats for kids across the back row (tight fit, but it works). Front seats are great. Trunk is large and easy to access. Upgraded Rockford Fosgate Stereo is powerful and clear. 6 Disc changer is a nice feature, but most will use their MP3 players in the aux jack more than the changer. Gripes are few, no cup holders in the rear and back bench does not split or fold.

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  The Best - 2006 Nissan Sentra
  By schnauzerlover - May 23 - 4:33 pm

  We just bought a new Nissan Sentra 1.8S with the special edition package. I love this car. It has a really perky engine. The sound system is great...it has the 7 in dish CD player and the extra speakers. It is really sharp with the spoiler. For the price...you cant beat it. I plan on having this car for a long time. So many people have stoped me to tell how great and sporty it looks.

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  Perfect Starter Car - 1996 Nissan Sentra
  By Marchy - May 19 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car used with 34,000 miles already on it. It now has a WOOPING 101,000 miles and I am still using this car on a daily basis to commute in the Northern VA/DC area. The only major problems I have had were the brakes. My car is wonderful, runs well still (I am still make it with the fast cars on in the interstate), still is very quiet, and gets great gas milage. I am in the process of purchasing again, and it well be a Nissan for sure!