The full redesign of the 2016 Nissan Sentra brings a plethora of features, efficient fuel economy and one of the roomiest interiors of its class. Perhaps one of the best features is the economic pricing where the entry level S model starts at only $15,898. Since the S model is quite bare bones in terms of features, I would recommend going with the SV model priced at $18,698 to get the many useful features like rearview camera, heated seats, air conditioning, push button start and the 5 inch driver display.
ENGINE & DRIVE
All models of the 2016 Nissan Sentra feature the same engine – a 1.8L four cylinder making 130hp and paired with a continuously variable transmission, which has better fuel economy than the 6 speed manual transmission offered on the base model. The CVT allows for the best of efficiency and performance. It keeps power at hand when needed but cruises at a low RPM for quiet and efficient driving. Nissan even gives the driver more control by offering ECO, Normal or Sport modes for optimal driving experiences.
This engine and transmission combination produces a pleasant ride with adequate power, smooth accelerations and an overall balanced feel. The 2016 Sentra sees a revision to the suspension making for more confident handling with precision control. Overall the combination is a very enjoyable ride with smooth steering, accelerations and a balanced feel.
Although the 2016 Nissan Sentra has relatively low power when compared to its competition, I wasn’t expecting a performance ride from an everyday compact sedan. Also, I would gladly sacrifice some unneeded power for the efficient fuel economies that result. With posted stats of 8.0L/100km in the city and 6.1 L/100km on the highway, our 200km test drive yielded a combined 7.3 L/100km which fits in nicely between the stats.
Nissan’s Safety Shield Technologies are features to warn of potential dangers and work very well on the 2016 Sentra with minimal false alarms. There’s the Rear Cross Traffic Alert which warns for potential side impacts while reversing, the Blindspot Warning lights when changing lanes, the Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking when a frontal obstacle is approaching too fast and a rearview monitor for reversing with a full screen view. I would also include the Intelligent Cruise Control into this category which allows for adjustment in following distance relative to the vehicle in front.
EXTERIOR
The fully redesigned 2016 Nissan Sentra has a more aerodynamic exterior and is sleeker and sportier than previous models, however the design lacks the boldness of the 2016 Nissan Maxima or 2016 Nissan Murano redesign. The sporty and beefy exterior showcases a well rounded compact sedan with a roomy interior. There’s also a nice use of accent lines and curves to create a pleasing body shape.
INTERIOR
The surprisingly spacious interior of the 2016 Sentra is a huge selling feature and offers more rear legroom than the 2016 Ford Focus and many other comparables. The cargo area also offers a great deal of storage space and overall there’s no cramped feeling that usually comes with the compact sedan category. The versatile interior also offers folding rear seats and a fully reclining front passenger seat for transporting all kinds of awkward sized cargo.
The 2016 Nissan Sentra also features a nice combination of soft touch materials that don’t feel cheap like the price tag would suggest. If you opt for the leather, the seats are plush and comfortable and add a luxurious touch to the interior. The dash is straightforward and logical with a simple and easy to navigate touch display, while there’s ample storage around the cabin and an adjustable armrest to keep things comfortable.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Although many have criticized the 2016 Nissan Sentra for not being up to par on performance and quality, I have to disagree. Although you won’t be winning any races, the 2016 Sentra has more than enough power for everyday use and the CVT does a great job of smoothing out the accelerations and creating a pleasant drive. The 2016 Nissan Sentra earns the IIHS Top Safety Pick + category (highest safety category rating), offers a ton of premium features as standard and has an incredibly roomy interior and cargo area for a compact sedan. Add to all this, the low pricing and you have a perfect combination for those looking for great value in a compact sedan.
