First Impressions and General Overview
A recent test drive of the new 2026 Nissan Sentra left positive impressions. Although the model is far from perfect, it offers an excellent price-to-quality ratio, starting from $22,400 excluding the destination charge of $1,245.
Sentra S Trim: Base Equipment
The base Sentra S level now features standard LED headlights, a glossy black grille, and 16-inch steel wheels with covers. The interior is simple, but drivers get a 7-inch instrument display and a 12.3-inch multimedia system with support for wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Additionally, there are cloth seats, power windows and locks, a four-speaker audio system, three USB-C charging ports, manual climate control, and a keyless access system with an engine start button.
A winter package is also available for $500, which includes heated front seats and heated exterior mirrors.
Safety Systems in the Base Version
Even in the base Sentra S trim, it is equipped with modern driver assistance systems, including Intelligent Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian and Bicycle Detection. Also present are Blind Spot Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition, and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.
SV Trim: The Optimal Choice
The Sentra SV trim, which starts at $23,170, is considered the most popular and worth the extra $770. It received 16-inch alloy wheels, improved interior upholstery, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, automatic climate control, and sun visors with extensions. A remote start, passive entry system, and security system have also been added.
The Convenience package for $990 for the SV includes heated mirrors with LED turn signals, an improved passive entry system that automatically locks the doors, a power-adjustable rearview mirror, a six-speaker audio system, and ambient lighting. Additionally – heated front seats, a wireless smartphone charger, and a heated synthetic leather steering wheel. A sunroof can be ordered for an additional $650.
Sporty SR Trim
The Sentra SR for $25,000 features a sporty exterior with a dark chrome grille, extended side sills, and a spoiler. There is also a unique rear bumper, a chrome exhaust tip, and an optional two-tone paint job. The model has 18-inch alloy wheels, advanced LED headlights, and mirrors with turn signals.
The interior received sport cloth seats with accent stitching, a synthetic leather steering wheel, a wireless charger, and a six-speaker audio system. A rear-seat ventilation duct, a center armrest with cupholders, and NissanConnect with a Wi-Fi hotspot have also been added.
Flagship SL Trim
The top of the line is the Sentra SL for $27,990, which has 17-inch alloy wheels and a power moonroof. The luxurious interior is equipped with a heated steering wheel and heated front seats with TailorFit fabric, a six-way power driver’s seat, dual-zone climate control, illuminated vanity mirrors, and a premium eight-speaker Bose audio system.
Additional safety systems have been added: Lane Keep Assist, Automatic Reverse Braking, and a Surround View Monitor with Moving Object Detection. A key feature is ProPILOT Assist, which combines adaptive cruise control with lane centering.
Engine and Transmission
All 2026 Sentra trims are equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 149 hp and 198 Nm of torque. The unit is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive.
2026 Nissan Sentra Prices
Model Price Sentra S $22,400 Sentra SV $23,170 Sentra SR $25,000 Sentra SL $27,990
Prices do not include the destination charge of $1,245.
The updated Sentra demonstrates how manufacturers can combine affordability with modern technology without a sharp price increase. The standard equipment of safety systems even in base versions is particularly impressive, making it competitive in the compact sedan market. Given current trends, such models could become key for brands seeking to maintain market share in the context of growing crossover popularity.