The 2020 Nissan Sentra is all-new as it enters its eighth generation since it was first introduced back in 1982. Over 6 million units of this compact sedan have been sold and this latest update is designed to maintain the popularity of the Sentra amid declining sedan sales.
Power for the Sentra comes from a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 149 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque paired to a continuously variable automatic transmission. That engine provides 20 percent more horsepower and 17 percent more torque than the outgoing engine.
While this doesn’t turn the Sentra into a performance car, it does provide a more responsive ride. Merging into high-speed traffic is not a challenge and there’s enough power for passing slower moving vehicles without effort.
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The ride overall is smooth and quiet without an excess of engine noise intruding into the cabin. This can be a problem in more affordable vehicles, but the Sentra has a quiet interior. Road and wind noise are also minimal so passengers enjoy a relaxing ride.
Adding to that interior comfort is an updated design and improved materials. There are metal accents, contrast stitching, and a sport-style steering wheel that all give the Sentra a more upscale feel.
While there’s room for five, this is a compact sedan. Three passengers can fit in the rear seats, but it’s tight for anything other than a quick trip. Front passengers, however, will find plenty of room. Even those who are taller will find ample leg and head room so the cabin doesn’t feel confining.
Standard on every Sentra is a 7-inch color touchscreen so those who purchase the base model don’t have to struggle with a small screen. They will, however, have to go up one trim from the base if they want Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
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The Sentra also has a solid suite of safety features with Nissan Safety Shield 360 standard across the lineup. It includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, lane departure warning, high beam assist, and rear automatic braking. Rear door alert, which reminds you to check the rear seats, is also a standard feature on the Sentra.
The 2020 Nissan Sentra is available in a range of three trims. The base S starts at $19,090 while the mid-range SV comes in at $20,270. Sitting at the top of the lineup is the SR with a price of $21,430. That makes the Sentra an affordable choice that’s easy to fit into the budget.
Regardless of which trim you choose, the 2020 Nissan Sentra has plenty to offer. A wide range of standard safety features, more powerful engine, stylish exterior, and comfortable interior make it a good choice for those looking for a compact sedan.
