2026 Nissan Sentra Gives a Recent Face for a Acquainted Pal

Nissan’s Sentra has been round for greater than 40 years and has outlived lots of its compact sedan opponents. It debuts in 2026 with a clear design and a cabin that feels each new but previous on the identical time.

Nissan’s exterior designers took inspiration from the glossy Ariya SUV and gave the Sentra a clear look. The V-motion grille is broad and flows into slim LED headlights that mild up with a refined welcome sample if you open the automotive. The sporty SR trim will get 18-inch wheels, a rear spoiler and a two-tone roof in enjoyable colours like Energetic Ember or Aspen White.

Beneath the shiny exterior, the Sentra’s mechanical story is much less thrilling. The two.0-liter four-cylinder engine returns with 149 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque by an Xtronic CVT. It’s dependable and easy with a retuned transmission for 2026 that feels extra pure underneath acceleration. A brand new Sport mode on the SV, SR and SL trims sharpens the throttle and dealing with, however don’t anticipate thrills – 0-60 takes 9 seconds or extra. Gas financial system estimates are down barely from final 12 months’s mannequin at 29 mpg metropolis, 38 mpg freeway, 33 mpg mixed.

Inside, the Sentra feels prefer it belongs in the next class. On most trims, a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment show dominates the dashboard and on larger grades, an identical 12.3-inch driver show is included. It’s a clear design that’s twice as shiny because the earlier mannequin’s display screen so you’ll be able to learn it within the solar or at evening. Bodily buttons for essential features stay, it’s all about performance over flash and the local weather controls at the moment are touch-sensitive for a extra streamlined look. The SR trim has purple accents and ambient lighting with 64 coloration choices so you’ll be able to set the temper for a late evening drive. The SL grade has quilted artificial leather-based seats, a heated steering wheel and a sunroof that opens up the cabin to the sky.

Practicality hasn’t been forgotten, beginning with the trunk which is designed for on a regular basis use with a low liftover peak so you’ll be able to load groceries or golf luggage with ease. Nissan says it could match three suitcases and two duffel luggage so it’s good for airport runs or weekend getaways. The optionally available Clever Key know-how opens the doorways as you strategy and shuts them as you stroll away, a small comfort that feels luxurious when you’ve gotten your arms full. Three USB-C ports preserve your units charged and the SL and SR Premium trims have a wi-fi telephone charger and an eight-speaker Bose audio system that sounds nice all through the cabin.

Nissan’s Security Protect 360 is normal on all Sentras and contains automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure prevention and excessive beam help. Blind Spot Intervention, launched in 2026, will nudge you again into your lane when you’re about to sideswipe somebody. The SL and SR Premium trims get ProPILOT Help, a semi-autonomous system that controls steering, braking and acceleration in stop-and-go visitors, making every day commutes simpler. An Round View Monitor with shifting object detection makes parking stress free, particularly in metropolis visitors, whereas ten normal airbags provide you with peace of thoughts.

The Sentra’s chassis tells a distinct story. With 6% extra physique rigidity the automotive feels extra planted and the upgraded shocks easy out bumps with stunning ease. The dynamic damper within the steering wheel reduces street vibration and the lowered physique apertures cut back cabin noise for a extra relaxed driving expertise. Rear disc brakes and multi-link rear suspension present good dealing with and the Sentra feels extra agile than its low engine output suggests. It’s not a sports activities sedan nevertheless it’s composed and comfy, hits the best steadiness for every day driving.

Pricing hasn’t been introduced however anticipate the bottom S trim to start out simply above the 2025 mannequin’s $22,785 together with vacation spot. There are 4 trims – S, SV, SR and the returning SL – to suit your finances.