2016 Nissan Sentra Review
Price Estimate: $11,990 - $14,990





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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Spacious backseat and trunk for the class
- priced lower than many rivals
- high fuel economy that's easy to achieve in the real world
- easy-to-use tech interface with useful infotainment features.
Cons
- Slow acceleration
- Bluetooth audio isn't standard on base models.
What’s new
Revised front and rear styling aligns the 2016 Sentra with the current Altima and Maxima sedans. Inside, there's a new steering wheel and some revised dashboard elements, while a high-resolution driver information screen is added to the SV, SR and SL trims. Newly available features include a power driver seat, adaptive cruise control and a few safety technologies (automatic emergency braking, a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert and NissanConnect emergency telematics).
Edmunds says
There are a lot of excellent compact cars available today, all with their own strengths. What you get with the 2016 Nissan Sentra is practicality. It's roomy, fuel-efficient and a great value for your money. Read more to learn about what else Nissan has to offer on the 2016 Sentra.
For sale nearby
424 listings
- $8,950fair price$112 above market
- 111,388 miles
- 1 accident, 1 owner, personal use only
- 29 City / 38 Hwy MPG
- Payless Car Rental (338 mi away)
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Keyless Entry/Start
- Upgraded Headlights
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
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Located in Omaha, NE
2016 Nissan Sentra... Super clean and super nice car with good miles runs and drives fantastic! For more information call 3**-5**-2*** or stop by toda...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
32 Combined MPG (29 City/38 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 3N1AB7AP0GY323986
Stock: 3502
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 08-05-2024 - $8,999fair price$107 above market
- 117,000 miles
- No accidents, 4 owners, corporate fleet vehicle
- 29 City / 38 Hwy MPG
- Greenline Motors (347 mi away)
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Keyless Entry/Start
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- USB Inputs
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Located in Bellevue, NE
Special Financing with LOW APR and 0 Money Down with qualifying credit. We have relationships with lenders to help you get approved even if you have ...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: No
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
32 Combined MPG (29 City/38 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 3N1AB7AP4GY241422
Stock: M25-352
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 07-08-2025
Vehicle overview
The 2016 Nissan Sentra doesn't necessarily stand out in the compact sedan segment, but that doesn't mean it's a penalty box. Perhaps most notably, the Sentra's backseat delivers space and comfort that rival some midsize sedans, and the trunk is just as generous. On the road, the Sentra certainly isn't thrilling, but its powertrain is fuel-efficient and generally unobtrusive. We gave the Sentra a respectable "B" rating before its 2016 refresh, and all of the improvements this year aren't likely to hurt our impression of this little sedan.

The 2016 Nissan Sentra gets aggressive front-end styling that evokes the larger Altima and Maxima.
Indeed, that refresh turns out to be pretty thorough. The exterior styling has been overhauled and is now appreciably more upscale, while the revised interior trim and new technology and safety features give shoppers further food for thought. Alas, the relatively underpowered 130-horsepower four-cylinder engine soldiers on unchanged, though Nissan says the continuously variable transmission (CVT) has been retuned for better responsiveness, as has the car's suspension. Overall, the various nips and tucks don't transform the Sentra into a segment leader, but they certainly sweeten the pot, especially given the enduringly strong EPA fuel economy ratings of 30-34 mpg combined.
Depending on your needs, the Sentra might be a terrific choice in the segment. If you're looking for something with a more involving driving experience, both the Ford Focus and Mazda 3 offer trims that will meet those needs. A particularly strong contender is the Honda Civic, which is all-new and vastly better this year. If you're in the segment for value, then the 2016 Hyundai Elantra might be your huckleberry. But no matter which way you slice it, the 2016 Nissan Sentra is no slouch.
Performance & mpg
Every 2016 Nissan Sentra gets a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 130 hp and 128 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on the S and FE+ S trims, while a CVT is optional on those models and standard on all other Sentras.

Available rear spoiler notwithstanding, the 2016 Nissan Sentra is one of the slowest cars in its class.
In Edmunds testing, a Sentra SL accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 10.1 seconds, which is among the slowest times for this class of car.
The EPA estimates that the six-speed manual Sentra will achieve 30 mpg combined (27 city/36 highway). Opting for the CVT ups fuel economy to 32 mpg combined (29 city/38 highway). The FE+ S model achieves an impressive 34 mpg combined (30 city/40 highway).
Safety
The 2016 Nissan Sentra comes standard with antilock brakes, stability control, tire-pressure monitoring, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and active front head restraints. A rearview camera and Nissan's Easy Fill Tire Alert system (which uses audible and visual signals to help you achieve the correct pressure when adding air) are standard starting at the SV trim level. The SL comes standard with a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, while available features include a forward collision mitigation system with automatic braking: an unusual perk in this class.
More basic Sentra models come with rear drum brakes, but rear disc brakes are standard on the SR and SL. However, in Edmunds brake testing, a Sentra with the less costly rear drum brakes stopped from 60 mph in 118 feet, a better-than-average distance for the segment. A Sentra SL stopped in 113 feet, which is almost unheard of for a compact economy sedan.
In government crash tests, the 2016 Sentra earned an overall rating of four stars (out of a possible five), with four stars for frontal impact protection and five stars for side-impact protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the 2016 Sentra its best rating of "Good" in its moderate-overlap and small-overlap frontal-offset impact tests. The Sentra also earned a "Good" rating in the side-impact, roof-strength and seat and head restraint (whiplash protection) tests.
Driving
The 2016 Nissan Sentra's 130-hp engine is pleasantly muted while accelerating moderately and cruising at freeway speeds. The CVT is one of the better offerings on the market, as there's little of the stomach-churning "rubber-band" effect during acceleration that's common to many transmissions of this type. Partly, that's down to Nissan's simulated stepped-shifting, which approximates the feel of a traditional automatic transmission with discrete gears. Just don't be in a hurry, because with so little power under the hood, the Sentra never is.

We like the Sentra's comfortable ride, but aren't enamored with what's under the hood.
It finds an agreeable middle ground in the ride quality department, however. For the most part, this Nissan's ride is fairly smooth and sophisticated. Handling around turns is respectable, and the Sentra has responsive, reassuring steering. The brakes are also more than adequate and provide plenty of stopping power, along with an intuitive pedal feel.
Interior
Taller passengers will love sitting in the Sentra. Both its front and rear seats are class-leading when it comes to space. In fact, the rear accommodations are so spacious that the Sentra practically feels like a midsize sedan from the backseat.

The 2016 Sentra's cabin is distinguished by its expansive roominess front and rear.
Although the Sentra's conservative overall interior design isn't going to wow you, the cabin gives the impression of being well-made overall. Standout features include smartphone-app integration via NissanConnect, which allows you to do Google searches via the car's 5.8-inch touchscreen interface in navigation-equipped models. SV and higher trims offer Siri Eyes Free voice recognition, which allows iPhone users to utilize any Siri function via a button on the steering wheel. In Sentras without navigation, you can still stream Internet radio (Pandora or iHeartRadio) and monitor text messages and social media.
Luggage capacity is generous for the class. At 15.1 cubic feet, the Sentra's trunk volume is comparable to that of some midsize sedans.
2016 Nissan Sentra models
The 2016 Nissan Sentra is a compact five-passenger sedan offered in S, FE+ S, SV, SR and SL trim levels.
The base Sentra S comes with 16-inch steel wheels, automatic headlights, remote keyless entry, air-conditioning, a height-adjustable driver seat, a sliding front armrest, 60/40-split folding rear seatbacks, a tilt-and-telescoping steering column, cruise control, full power accessories and a four-speaker sound system with a CD player, a USB port, an auxiliary audio jack and Bluetooth phone connectivity.
The FE+ S version largely shares the S trim's equipment, but it prioritizes fuel economy with low-rolling-resistance tires, a rear spoiler and underbody aerodynamic deflectors.
A step up is the SV, which adds keyless entry and ignition, upgraded cloth upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a 5-inch driver information screen, a 5-inch central touchscreen, a rearview camera, NissanConnect integrated smartphone applications (including hands-free text messaging capability), Siri Eyes Free voice controls for Apple devices, satellite radio, Bluetooth audio connectivity and a six-speaker sound system.
The sporty SR gains 17-inch alloy wheels, rear disc brakes, a sport body kit, foglights, heated mirrors with integrated turn signals, sport cloth upholstery and heated front seats.
The top-grade SL loses the SR's sport-themed flourishes but gets 17-inch alloy wheels of its own plus the rear disc brakes, a six-way power driver seat (with power lumbar), leather upholstery, a larger 5.8-inch touchscreen with navigation, dual-zone automatic climate control and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. A blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert is also standard on the SL.
The All Weather package (SV only) includes heated front seats and heated outside mirrors. The Style package (SV only) adds a sunroof, unique 16-inch alloy wheels, illuminated vanity mirrors and LED interior lighting. Optional for the SR and SL is the Premium package, which adds the Style package's contents (minus the 16-inch wheels) plus an eight-speaker Bose audio system and (for the SR only) the upgraded 5.8-inch touchscreen with navigation, the blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, leather upholstery and the auto-dimming rearview mirror.
The Technology package (available on SR and SL models) includes adaptive cruise control, a forward collision mitigation system with automatic emergency braking and NissanConnect emergency telematics.

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Compare 2016 Nissan Sentra trim levels
Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota
$128/mo for Sentra S
Sentra S
vs
$164/mo
Avg. Midsize Car
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
4 out of 5 stars4/5Excellent
#16 out of 46 among Compact Cars
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
$401/yr
vs. $416/yr
for Average Compact Car
for Average Compact Car
Frequency
0.94x/yr
vs. 1.01x/yr
for Average Compact Car
for Average Compact Car
Severity
11.2%
vs. 10.4%
for Average Compact Car
for Average Compact Car
powered by RepairPal
Nissan Sentra Owner Reviews
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Most Who Review For A Living Lose Touch Sometimes
4 out of 5 starsRob, 03/03/2017
2016 Nissan Sentra SV 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT)
I read reviews on cars in this category before I went searching and, unlike Edmunds review, most have the Sentra as a near last "resort". I went to a Nissan/Kia dealer and drove a Sentra after being shown one. It was attractive enough and felt comfortable so I drove it and ultimately bought one. I was proud of the deal , but before taking delivery was wondering if I made a mistake … given the reviews I read. Now that I have owned it long enough to be objective enough, I can say that I made a good choice, not just because the price. It is not flashy by any stretch but, again, looks good. The compliments I have got on the look (gunmetal with the tinted windows) have been surprising. The interior has really grown on me. For me, it is give and take with net "take". The radio display is not the largest and does not have the best display (with the radio on), but sounds very good (it processes the XM radio signal very, very well). The reverse camera is very clear. The climate control area does not have a fancy layout and that has grown well on me. No having to examine the area to figure out how you want to set it. The drivers display has grown on me, too. The large speedometer and tach are great for driving. The 5" drivers display is a standout. The SV doesn't have all of the functions, but is enough and the color display is pleasing. The gas mileage has been better than I expected. Pretty darn thrifty. It is a slow accelerating car with a small gas tank, but the cost of driving it has neutralized the lack of acceleration. I am a bigger guy and find the seats very comfortable. I found them comfy when I drove it relative to other cars I drove. They are not sport seats, but for me do not need to be. Just nice cloth and really comfy. The one thing that stood out when I drove it and has remained my favorite part of the car is the steering wheel. This is a car I paid a little over $16,000 for and considering the price the steering wheel is of a sport diameter and thickness. The steering and handling are not sporty but the car it rides smoothly. Quiet in the city, quite a bit of road noise on the highway. The Conti tires may be part of the reason. i had them on my previous car and interior noise went down a lot when I got new tires. Overall, my Sentra is quite the nice car to spend my days in. I drive quite a bit. A lot of car magazines rip the car for what it is missing. My perspective is, it deserves kudos for what it does give, quite a bit of passenger room, nice ride, maneuvers well, a feeling of safety, comfortable seats, simple dash and controls (a stately look), great instrumentation, very nice gas mileage and a fantastic steering wheel (the first time I have ever admired the feel of a steering wheel on a car). The ease on the pocket book when buying one is a bonus.
More than just affordable, reliable transportation
4 out of 5 starsTR, 08/23/2016
2016 Nissan Sentra S 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 6M)
I purchased my car as a family sedan to seat 4, sometimes 5. The best feature is the interior room and trunk space. The next best feature is fuel economy. Don't be afraid to get the 6 speed manual transmission. It is smooth as silk and allows you to baby the engine or squeeze some power out when you need to. I know the CVT auto's claim to fame is better acceleration and economy but … at what cost?? The CVT likes to rev the engine up pretty high even below 20 mph just to accelerate faster. I keep the rpm's lower with the 6 speed. And by the way I get above the 35 mpg rated highway mileage cruising on the interstate. On a 400+ mile trip I averaged over 40 mpg at an average speed of 65 mph (traffic slowed me down some). In any event the Sentra 6 speed manual gives you a lot of bang for your buck in a reasonably roomy family sedan. Don't expect a lot of fancy electronics. Options and controls are basic but uncluttered and easy to operate.
2016 Nissan Sentra SR Faster than what's said
5 out of 5 starsFrank, 10/03/2016
2016 Nissan Sentra SR 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT)
I bought this car with 4 miles, I have put over 1000 miles on it and it has decent pickup, it's not a mustang or a high end sports car, but I didn't buy it for racing. Car has tight suspension, great tire size 17" Wheels, low profile 50r, continentals. I drive the car in Chicago, where it's a hustle and I have had no problems changing lanes or enjoying the drive. I like this car, and … hearing negative reviews makes me laugh. All I did was put in a K&N air filter, that's all and put in 89 octane gasoline and the car runs like a gem.
If I just would know this upfront
3 out of 5 starsRafael, 11/05/2017
2016 Nissan Sentra SR 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT)
This vehicle has serious transmission issues, only a year with It and already transmission problema are popping up. The finishing also is poor. Not sure what is the sound on the trunk, but very antique way of closing and opening (check the trunk inside). Also the door handler are very weak easy to break (driver side already getting loose).
2016 Nissan Sentra video
2016 Nissan Sentra Walkaround Review | Los Angeles Auto Show
A refreshed 2016 Nissan Sentra made its debut at the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show and Edmunds was on hand to see if it has what it takes to challenge the Honda Civic, Mazda 3 and Ford Focus that have recently been redesigned or updated.
2016 Sentra Highlights
S
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $16,780 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 30 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $128/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 15.1 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Sentra include:
- Back-up camera
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
NHTSA Overall Rating
4 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall4 / 5Driver4 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover11.8%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestGood
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
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