2026 Nissan Sentra Review

2026 Nissan Sentra – Overview

The 2026 Nissan Sentra debuts with a completely refreshed design, both inside and out, continuing its tradition of offering a solid set of features and comfortable driving at an accessible price. While compact four-door sedans may seem less exciting to buyers drawn to SUVs, the Sentra’s bold styling and upgraded technology help it remain competitive with long-standing rivals such as the Honda Civic.

Performance, however, remains modest. The new Sentra carries over the outgoing model’s 149-horsepower four-cylinder engine paired with a CVT, so don’t expect a thrilling drive.

Expert Insight: Although the Sentra delivers respectable fuel efficiency, it can’t match the mileage of hybrids like the Toyota Prius. Still, with a base price that’s considerably lower, it provides a level of value that few other compact sedans can rival.

When Is the 2026 Nissan Sentra Coming Out?

The latest Sentra is expected to hit dealerships in late 2025, with exact dates varying by region. Early buyers can anticipate pre-order options and potential launch incentives.

What’s New for 2026 Nissan Sentra?

The 2026 Nissan Sentra receives a comprehensive refresh, both inside and out, giving the sedan a more refined, mature look. Inside, the previously simple interior gets a noticeable upgrade with higher-quality materials, modern design touches, and updated technology—including a standard 12.3-inch infotainment display.

The top-tier SL trim returns, now standard with a power sunroof, heated steering wheel, automatic climate control, faux-leather seats, and alloy wheels. Driving dynamics are improved thanks to updated CVT tuning and revised suspension dampers. Additionally, Nissan introduces its Pro-Pilot driver assistance system to the Sentra lineup for the first time.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

The 2026 Nissan Sentra is expected to start at around $23,000, with fully loaded models topping out near $28,000, depending on trim and options.

While final pricing hasn’t been confirmed, Nissan appears set on keeping the Sentra highly affordable. The SV trim is likely to remain the sweet spot, offering a balanced mix of features and value. For 2026, the SV adds wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also includes a drive mode selector with Sport mode, which sharpens engine and steering response and makes the CVT’s simulated shifts feel quicker and more engaging.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

• Engine: 149-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder

• Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive

The 2026 Nissan Sentra carries over its existing powertrain with minimal changes, so don’t expect major gains in performance or fuel efficiency. That also applies to acceleration times, such as the 0–60 mph figures. However, Nissan notes several updates aimed at improving driving dynamics, including a six-percent stiffer body structure, revised dampers, and a larger steering damper designed to reduce unwanted vibrations. We’ll provide full performance details once we have the 2026 Sentra in for testing.

0–60-MPH Times

• C/D 60-mph Test: 8.9 seconds

For context, the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR recorded the same 8.9-second 0–60 mph time, matching the base Honda Civic but falling behind other competitors like the Mazda 3. With the 2026 Sentra carrying over its current powertrain, we don’t expect significant gains in acceleration. We’ll update this section with official testing numbers once the 2026 model is evaluated.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

• EPA City Rating: 30 mpg

• EPA Highway Rating: 40 mpg

Official EPA fuel economy figures for the 2026 Nissan Sentra haven’t been released yet. For reference, the 2025 model achieved 30 mpg city, 40 mpg highway, and 34 mpg combined. We’ll update this section once the EPA publishes the official numbers and we complete our real-world testing. visit the EPA’s website.

In Comparison: Within the compact-sedan segment, the Toyota Corolla leads with 32 mpg city and 41 mpg highway, placing the Sentra slightly behind the most fuel-efficient competitors.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

First Row: Nissan reports that front-seat legroom, hip room, and shoulder room are all within two-tenths of an inch compared with the previous model, meaning the 2026 Nissan Sentra maintains a comfortably spacious interior for full-sized adults. Keep in mind that the available sunroof reduces front passenger headroom by just over an inch.

Second Row: Rear dimensions remain largely unchanged. While compact sedans don’t offer generous rear space, two average-sized adults should sit comfortably. Fitting three passengers in the back is a tighter squeeze, even for children, though this is typical for the segment.

Cargo Capacity: Trunk space stays at 14 cubic feet. In practical terms, the previous Sentra’s trunk accommodated seven carry-on suitcases—one more than the Toyota Corolla sedan—making it a solid choice for everyday hauling.

Infotainment and Connectivity

• Infotainment: 12.3-inch touchscreen standard; optional secondary 12.3-inch display

• Connectivity: Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wireless on all but base S model)

• Audio System: 4-speaker stereo standard; 6-speaker or 8-speaker Bose optional

The 2026 Nissan Sentra replaces some of the outgoing model’s physical controls with touchscreen functionality, but steering wheel controls and direct-access buttons for the HVAC system remain. Nissan says the new infotainment screen is twice as bright as before, enhancing visibility in all lighting conditions. Three USB-C ports are standard, and wireless charging is available, keeping the cabin well-connected and tech-friendly.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The 2026 Nissan Sentra comes well-equipped with a suite of standard driver-assistance technologies. Adaptive cruise control is included on all trims, while higher trims can be optioned with a 360-degree camera system and Nissan’s ProPilot driver-assist technology.

• Standard Safety Features: Automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning

• Optional Safety Features: Nissan ProPilot driver-assist suite

For detailed crash-test results, refer to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The 2026 Nissan Sentra comes with a standard warranty package that’s modest compared with some competitors. Kia and Hyundai, for example, offer more extensive coverage. Nissan has also discontinued its previous maintenance program, which provided up to three complimentary oil changes over two years or 24,000 miles.

• Limited Warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles

• Powertrain Warranty: 5 years or 50,000 miles

• Complimentary Maintenance: None

2026 Nissan Sentra Specifications

Final Verdict

The 2026 Nissan Sentra remains a solid choice for drivers seeking a reliable, fuel-efficient compact sedan with modern tech and strong safety features. It’s a practical daily driver with enough style and comfort to appeal to a wide range of buyers.

2026 Nissan Sentra Video