The all new 2020 Nissan Sentra brings a sportier new design, new technology and a new engine to help push it back to the top of the compact sedan class. The shorter and wider stance gives the Sentra a sleek new look that brings it more in line with the rest of the Nissan lineup and particularly the 2020 Altima. Recent years have shown that Nissan is really making a push to try and regain their top positioning and the 2020 Sentra is a clear leap in that direction.
SPORTY EXTERIOR
The 2020 Sentra underwent a radical redesign when compared with the previous model year. The shorter and wider stance of the new Sentra gives way to a more athletic look to match the sportiness of the Maxima and Altima, but in a smaller package. The front fascia gets an updated version of the V-Motion grille as before, but the entire front bumper has been tweaked. The air opening in the middle is a lot taller and wider and it gives the car a more aggressive appearance. The LED foglights are now a rectangular strip and have been integrated into the air vents on each side and there’s even a sporty aftermarket-like diffuser at the bottom.
The sideview showcases the sportiness of the design when compared with the previous year’s exterior. The longer hood and sloping roofline makes the Sentra appear to be longer even though it’s actually shorter than before. A small design change to add a black c pillar gives way to a pleasing floating roof look and some accent lines at the bottom by the side skirt and on the rear haunches help drive home the sporty and aggressive look. The rear end has been updated to match the rest of the design and sports some new wider and narrower tail lights, a subtle rear spoiler, a single chrome tipped exhaust and a diffuser-like section at the bottom of the bumper.
SLEEK INTERIOR
Just as the exterior has had a much-needed overhaul, the interior has been significantly upgraded as well. The quality and design of the 2020 Nissan Sentra’s interior is miles ahead of the previous dated design. Top notch soft touch materials come together in a refined and sleek design throughout the interior, but especially noticeable is the red double stitching on the leather dash to help elevate the overall appearance.
A multi tiered, leather stitched dash surrounds a raised touch screen, a well thought out centre console and the unique and classy rounded, propeller-like air vents. The steering wheel sees an enormous upgrade in both style and functionality. The previous clunky wheel is replaced by a four spoke, racing inspired steering wheel with moulded grip sections at 10 and 2 and a flat bottom.
A lot about the interior of the 2020 Sentra is more efficient than before, including a push on/off parking brake pedal which helps to free up some space on the center console allowing for more storage and a more modern look. Having the touchscreen raised instead of embedded into the dash frees up space for more storage and better climate controls. Also, the roomy rear seats make the Sentra a great choice for a family car in the compact sedan class.
PERFORMANCE & DRIVE
The 2020 Nissan Sentra comes equipped with a single option for an engine. The practical yet powerful 2.0L four cylinder engine generates 149hp to the front wheels and is paired with Nissan’s signature continuously variable transmission. This powertrain can deliver smooth and quiet acceleration without lacking power when needed. Most drivers will find the fuel savings from the CVT the real draw to the Sentra as it achieves 8.0L/100km in the city and 6.0 L/100km on the highway.
The 2020 Sentra has a noticeably sportier driving feel than before and those looking to push it to the limits will enjoy the sport-tuned suspension and the sharper, more responsive electronic power steering. For the majority who will drive the Sentra more modestly, the suspension tuning will help isolate you from the bumps and jarring impacts. New for 2020 is the customizable Eco Mode which helps promote fuel efficiency over performance.
Nissan’s line of safety features has been ever-growing and evolving with the times. The 2020 Sentra is a great example to showcase the full breadth of safety technology. Even base models are equipped with the Nissan Safety Shield 360 safety tech suite, which includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, high-beam assist and rear automatic braking.
FINAL THOUGHTS
The new and sportier look has really propelled the 2020 Sentra to a top contender of the competitive compact sedan class. With the 2020 Nissan Sentra starting at only $18,798 there’s so much value and technology packed into this pleasing and sporty package. Add the two tone exterior colour option and your Sentra will really stand out from the crowd. Overall, the sportier driving experience the sleeker exterior and the more luxurious interior will all play a role in making the all new 2020 Nissan Sentra a true success.
