Nissan didn’t hold back with its 2020 redesign of the Sentra, metamorphosing the dowdy-looking, also-ran sedan into one that now stands with the top models in the compact sedan class. This is the best Sentra we’ve ever tested, with its comfortable ride, nimble handling, great fuel economy, roomy cabin, and intuitive controls.
The upgraded powertrain is a pleasant 149-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that replaced the rougher and older 1.8-liter. The continuously variable transmission acts like a refined conventional automatic transmission and ensures a predictable, unobtrusive power delivery. Together, they endow the Sentra with relatively quick acceleration and commendable fuel economy of 32 mpg overall. Still, it’s only 1 mpg better than Nissan’s larger Altima midsized sedan.
The lower stance, combined with more advanced rear suspension improves both the ride and handling characteristics. The Sentra is now enjoyable to drive. It feels responsive in corners and remains utterly secure even when pushed to its limits on our track. The ride is steady and absorbent, and feels supple and composed over bumps. But, we would caution that the wider, lower profile tires on the SR trim take away from comfort.
By the class standards, the interior looks upscale, especially in the upper trim versions. Buyers can even get a power seat, leather upholstery, and heated seats. The Sentra’s driving position provides unobstructed outward visibility. Drivers found that the front seats became too soft over longer drives, losing support. But the power seat, part of a pricey options package, provides better lower-back support and cushion height adjustment.
The rear seat is surprisingly roomy, which is not a given in this category.
Our testers found that the infotainment and climate controls are a model of simplicity and a snap to use. All trims come with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capabilities. We were rather dismayed however, with the antiquated foot operated parking brake, which is very easy for the driver to bank his or left shin into.
Nissan's Safety Shield 360 is standard and includes forward collision warning (FCW), automatic emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian detection, blind spot warning (BSW), and lane departure warning (LDW) but unlike some competitors, it does not include lane keeping assistance (LKA) or lane centering assistance (LCA).