The Sentra is a complete transformation from the previous model, as evidenced by its strong road-test score.
It also shed its dowdy look and mediocre performance to become one of the best-driving sedans in the compact class.
The 149-hp four-cylinder and continuously variable transmission combine to provide pleasantly unobtrusive acceleration.
The more sophisticated rear suspension facilitates a comfortable ride and nimble handling.
The interior looks upscale, especially in the SR and SV trims; buyers can even get a power driver's seat, leather upholstery, and heated front seats.
We found the rear seat to be relatively roomy, and the infotainment system is easy to use.
The redesigned 2020 Sentra is a complete transformation.
It shed its dowdy look and overall driving mediocrity to become one of the best sedans in its class.
The engine and transmission are a pleasant combination that provide unobtrusive acceleration.
The more advanced rear suspension facilitates a comfortable ride and nimble handling.
The interior looks upscale, especially in the SR and SV trims; buyers can even get a power seat, leather upholstery, and heated seats.
The rear seat is relatively roomy, and the infotainment system is easy to use.
All trims except the base version have Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capabilities.
Nissan's Safety Shield 360 is standard and includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, and blind spot warning, but lane keeping assistance is not offered. Updates for 2021 include standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for all trims. The 2022 model added a new Midnight Edition Package on the Sentra SR and a new All-Weather Package for the SV. A 2024 refresh included a new CVT and auto start/stop system that improved fuel economy slightly. There were no significant changes for the 2025 model year.
The 2013 remake diminished steering feel and left ride quality below par.
Equipment levels are good, but the interior feels cheap and the engine is a bit noisy.
Stability control, traction control, and antilock brakes are standard.
Fuel economy with the CVT rose to a respectable 29 mpg.
If you're seriously shopping Sentra, the SV trim line is the way to go.
The base S is too stripped-down, while the higher SR and SL lines are just gilding a mundane basic sedan.
The SV Driver Package brought push-button start and the Navigation Package included a backup camera.
Changes for 2015 included a standard USB port and Bluetooth on all models. Updates for 2018 included standard automatic emergency braking and forward collision warning on most models.
A redesign in 2007 brought a roomier rear seat, a civilized and quiet ride, and easy cabin access.
Interior storage is generous, thanks primarily to an extremely large, lighted and locking glove compartment.
The box goes deep into the dashboard and is capacious enough to hold a small laptop.
The Sentra also has simple controls, despite a rich list of readily available features such as iPod control, Handling is sound with the optional ESC, but without it the Sentra can fishtail too easily.
The driving position is high and most drivers found plenty of room.
Visibility is good to the front and sides, but limited to the rear.
The pre-2007 Sentra was one of the more pleasant small sedans with a spirited powertrain, decent handling, and a reasonably quiet, well-designed interior.
There are numerous nooks and bins, as well as large map pockets in the front doors.
Major controls are well designed and easy to use, plus the instruments are legible in all light conditions.
However, the steering wheel obscures the instrumentation dimmer switch and power-mirror control.
Dynamically though, this version of the Sentra had fallen behind most competing small cars.
Ride quality is a bit too stiff and braking falls a bit short.
Further, the rear seat is cramped and this version of the Sentra received a Poor rating in the IIHS side-crash test without the optional side airbags.
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