Despite the unstoppable momentum of cross-over sales, compact sedans still have their place. They sit lower to the ground, offering a much better driving experience, and are typically more affordable without too much compromise in practicality. The 2021 Nissan Sentra tacks on a few more reasons why you might want to consider the alternative with luscious comfort and snazzy looks all within a bargain $20,000 price tag.
Yes, the Nissan Sentra can really be had for a sub $20k price point and for 2021, the model has received some minor cosmetic updates. The base S models come standard with a standard 7” infotainment system compatible with Android Auto and Apple Car play. The more preferred SV trim upgrades to a larger 8” infotainment touchscreen, adaptive cruise control and dual-zone automatic climate controls for an extra $1,000. The available SV Premium package comes with larger 17” aluminum wheels, heated front seats, quilted leather upholstery and power-adjustable driver’s seat and a sunroof. The highest SR trim gets a few additional luxury treatments including active noise-cancelling for the interior, driver’s side power lumbar support, leather-appointed seats, electronic navigation and a heated steering wheel.
All trims come equipped with a 2.0 liter four-cylinder engine producing a 149 horsepower. A continuous variable automatic transmission (CVT) handles all the gear shifts in a front-wheel drive configuration.
Initial debut of Nissan’s CVT transmission operated exactly as intended with infinite gears. However, customer feedback disliked the obnoxious noise and awkward feel of acceleration they were accustomed to conventional geared transmission. In response, Nissan now emulates a conventional geared transmission similar to that of a 6-speed automatic or manual transmission and the feedback has been significantly improved since.
Given its smaller-sized engine, the Nissan Sentra earns a respectable 29 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway. That makes the Nissan Sentra a top tier competitor in terms of fuel economy within its segment albeit the Toyota Corolla holds the throne at 31 and 40 mpg in the city and highway.
The interior remains one of the Sentra’s high points with surprisingly comfortable front seats – Nissan calls them Zero Gravity seats from its extensive research in both comfort and ergonomics. Our tester model with the SR badge comes equipped with quilted leather seats, an enlarged 8” infotainment touchscreen and a combination of soft and hard-plastic paneling that makes up the rest of the interior. The available sunroof on the SV Premium or SR package adds another layer of comfort with better airflow and added sunlight within the cabin space.
Base models get a standard 7” infotainment touchscreen while the SV trim and up receive a larger 8” screen. Both systems are conveniently compatible with Android Auto and Apple Carplay with both Bluetooth and USB connectivity located on the front dashboard or the rear seats. An 8-speaker Bose stereo system and Wi-Fi hotspot are also available as purchase upgrade options.
Despite its sporty appeal, the Nissan Sentra drive feels quite basic and familiar, with adequate handling capability. Rated at just 149 horsepower, the Nissan Sentra falls short of other competitors offering a more enthusiastic ride, like the Mazda 3.
Nevertheless, the 2021 Nissan Sentra gets the job done and the CVT transmission helps find torque when acceleration is needed. Ultimately, we really liked the super-comfortable interior. The available active-noise cancellation and exquisite interior all make for a practical and enjoyable ride at an affordable price point in the low $20k bracket.
