Nissan Sentra Stacks Up Well

Nissan's unassuming Sentra sedan is an unexpected surprise, delivering great fuel economy and exceptional value at a suggested retail of $16,040. The current model - redesigned just a year ago - has the look of a scaled-down Altima, but with softer lines and compressed into a tidy package that feels quite solid.

First introduced in 1982, the Sentra was Nissan's welcome replacement for the B210 model in the compact segment. Now, six generations later, the latest model introduced in 2007 is classified as a mid-size sedan to accommodate the entry level Versa in Nissan's model lineup. Typically, we don't like to see vehicles grow in size with each generation, but the Sentra is an exception and seems to hit a sweet spot. This car certainly never seems too big and the added size improves overall function in many respects.

Power comes from a double overhead cam, 16-valve 2.0-liter four cylinder engine that produces 140 horsepower at 5,100 rpm and 147 lbs-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. A sportier SE-R model can also be ordered with 177 horsepower 2.5 liter four, or a potent SE-R Spec V that produces 200 horsepower. The standard engine is a well-rounded powertrain that is reasonably quiet and refined, with adequate punch to vault the Sentra ahead of traffic when needed.

Transmission choices include a six-speed manual or a CVT (continuously variable transmission). Our test car was fitted with the CVT automatic, which, while not as much fun as the six-speed manual, provides a higher EPA fuel economy rating. The manual achieves an EPA rating of 24 mpg city and 31 mpg highway, while the CVT is 25 mpg city and 33 mpg on the highway. Our real world fuel economy test was one of the unexpected surprises. Cruising conservatively on a trip from our Ohio base to Detroit allowed us to coax nearly 36 mpg out of the Sentra. We found the car to deliver fuel economy averages very close to, and in some cases better than, the slightly smaller Versa. Add a generous 14.5 gallon fuel tank and the Sentra is a traveling machine with serious legs for extended cruising.

Overall ride and handling qualities are pleasing and comfortable, but not what we would call sporty. To minimize parasitic drag on the engine, Nissan fitted the Sentra with electric power assisted steering. The system is more efficient than hydraulic power steering but lacks the road feedback and steering feel than its traditional counterpart. Even with the rather vague steering, the Sentra is fun on a two-lane stretch of blacktop and offers easily defined limits. This isn't a demanding car to drive. Quite the opposite, it does what's expected with little fuss or bother. The Sentra also earned a five star front-impact safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Nissan's Sentra isn't a flashy car to own or operate and nobody will accuse you of buying this car to get noticed. That said, we found a great deal of satisfaction in the overall functionality of the Sentra. This is a vehicle that simply does everything asked of it without a whimper. The four door sedan configuration is straightforward with good access to all seats and room to fit four adults comfortably, and five in a pinch. Rear seat legroom is a bit tight with the front seats in their rearmost position, but that's to be expected in this vehicle class.

Today's green car market place is full of surprises. The sixth generation Nissan Sentra is an unpretentious alternative that makes sense for a wide range of transportation needs.

The Good: Great fuel economy and exceptional value
The Bad: Vague steering feel and tight accommodations for a fifth passenger
The Rating: 8 (out of 10)