Once Nissan's smallest car in the US, the Sentra has had to make room for newer models like the Versa and Cube at the bottom of the lineup. Once known for its enthusiast oriented versions, the Sentra has bulked up on advanced features and creature comforts while cutting costs by equipping some models with drum brakes and twist-beam rear suspension. Most models are powered by a 2.0L four-cylinder rated at 140-bhp. When equipped with the CVT transmission, fuel economy is a respectable 26 city/34 hwy. The performance-oriented SE-R adds a larger displacement 2.5L engine, disc brakes and upgraded tires. With a MSRP of over $20,000, the SE-R is no longer the performance value that it once was.

The Sentra sees a number of revisions to trim levels and option packages. Anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control are now standard.