2026 Nissan Sentra Is A Very Tempting Honda Civic Alternative

While the outgoing Sentra was far from dull, this new one is far more exciting to look at. Nissan describes it as "daring, vitalizing, and resonating," three words that could also describe the new electric Leaf.

That bold styling is paired with an improved interior, both in terms of material quality and technology. Nissan's latest infotainment suite is found here, and the company brought back the SL trim to act as a more premium offering now that the Altima will soon be eliminated from the lineup along with the Versa. Under the hood, last year's engine remains unchanged, as Nissan focused its efforts elsewhere to maximize value.

SL And SR Grades Return
You may recognize the Sentra's distinctive new front end, as it bears some resemblance to the new Leaf with Nissan's latest digitalized V-Motion grille. The overall shape is very curvaceous, but there are many sharp edges and strong lines. Slim LED headlights give a premium appearance, and upper trims even include a lighting pattern when the vehicle is unlocked or when the turn signals are used. Small aerodynamic changes reduce drag, which should improve the fuel economy (announced at a later date).

Nissan will offer four trims: S, SV, SR, and SL. The Sentra will come in seven colors – Imperial Bronze, Gun Metallic, Atlantic Gray Metallic, Super Black, Scarlett Ember, Aspen White and Fresh Powder – plus four two-tone combinations with a black roof – Aspen White, Bluestone Pearl, Atlantic Gray, and Energetic Ember. Energetic Ember (orange) is by far the most eye-grabbing, but we couldn't help but notice that Imperial Bronze (shown on the SL trim) looks a bit like the R34 GT-R's Millenium Jade, which was also offered on the R35 GT-R.

Three wheel sizes are available, depending on the trim level: 16-inch, 17-inch, and 18-inch. The SR trim is the sportiest flavor, adding a unique front fascia with a dark chrome grille, black accents, rear spoiler, 18-inch wheels, and two-tone roof. The SL trim rides on 17-inch wheels, but most of its enhancements are found inside.

Sentra Gets More Luxurious 
As with other affordable Nissan models, like the Kicks, it's hard to believe the Sentra packs so much technology even at the lowest trim levels. A 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system comes standard (replacing the outgoing seven- and optional eight-inch screens) with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, while wireless functionality is added on the SV trim and higher. A 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster is available (seven-inch information display standard) to complete the futuristic cabin, as is a touch-sensitive climate panel.

Nissan says the infotainment system is twice as bright as the outgoing system, which was often hard to see in direct sunlight. Four speakers are standard, the SR gets six, while the SL includes an eight-speaker Bose audio system (optional on SR).

Nissan focused on adding more soft-touch materials throughout the cabin, and you can feel that especially on the higher trims. The SL trim rejoins the lineup, featuring TailorFit synthetic leather with a diamond pattern, a heated steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, ambient lighting, an auto-dimming mirror, and ambient lighting. The SR also gets a unique interior with sport cloth and orange accent stitching. Nissan wanted to bring more features to more customers, so features like heated seats are available even on the base S trim.

Adaptive cruise control comes standard on all trims, and ProPilot Assist is finally available on the Sentra with the SL or SR Premium Package. Those same trims also get a class-exclusive HD Intelligent Around View Monitor. Other nice conveniences include the available Nissan Intelligent Key (standard on SR and SL, optional on SV), which unlocks the car as you approach it and locks it as you walk away. The infotainment system also features a myQ Universal Garage Door Opener, which can control up to three garages and can use geofencing to open the door when you approach or depart.

Power Stays The Same 
While the styling and interior quality have improved dramatically, there haven't been any improvements under the hood, where the powertrain is a full carryover from the previous generation. A 2.0-liter four-cylinder continues to produce 149 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque. That's not a lot, even compared to some of the base engines in the compact sedan segment.

Power continues to go out to the front wheels only through a continuously variable transmission, but Nissan did as a stop/start feature to improve fuel economy. Despite shutting down the engine to improve efficiency, the new Sentra loses an MPG or two in the city (depending on trim), two MPG on the highway, and one MPG combined. These numbers are based on Nissan's estimated numbers; actual EPA fuel economy may vary.

Nissan also says it has made tuning improvements to the CVT that deliver a smoother, more natural acceleration feel. All trims except the S receive a sport drive mode, which delivers a sharper throttle response and quicker shift simulated patterns. This new Sentra is also 6% more rigid than before, which should make it more entertaining to drive. Nissan even took the time to reduce body openings, which should make the cabin quieter at highway speeds.

Pricing has not been announced, but Nissan says the 2026 Sentra shouldn't have a huge increase compared to the 2025 model.