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. The Sentra has bulked up in size and content, while cutting costs by equipping most models with drum brakes, steel wheels and a twist-beam rear suspension. All models are powered by a 1.8L four-cylinder rated at 130-bhp. When equipped with the CVT transmission, fuel economy is a 30 city/39 highway, which is near the top of the segment. With a MSRP under $20,000, the Sentra is competitive in value and style, but no longer offers the standout performance credentials of past models.

The Sentra has revised styling outside and in for 2016. Exterior changes include new front and rear fascias, grille, hood, headlights and tail lights. Interior changes include a new steering wheel, center cluster and updated instrument panel.