2017 Nissan Sentra
Pros
- Spacious backseat and trunk for the class
- Priced lower than many rivals
- Easy-to-use tech interface
Cons
- Slow acceleration on most models
- Bluetooth streaming audio isn't standard on base models
2017 Nissan Sentra pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Edmunds' Expert Review
Overall rating
Got space? If you're buying a 2017 Nissan Sentra, the answer is an emphatic "yes!" This compact sedan stands out in its class by virtue of its uncommonly spacious interior, with a rear seat that rivals those of many midsize models in terms of head- and legroom. The same can be said of the Sentra's trunk, which offers nearly as much cargo capacity as those of some full-size sedans.
Nissan has been hard at work boosting the Senta's overall appeal, too. Last year's Sentra gained a more upscale look and feel to its cabin, along with a number of desirable standard features and options that make this affordable sedan seem less like a car you'd settle for and more like a car you'd actually want to drive. For 2017, the most notable upgrade is the new SR Turbo. Fitted with the 188-horsepower turbocharged 1.6-liter engine from the Nissan Juke crossover, it should liven things up quite a bit, as will its sport-tuned suspension, reworked steering and upgraded front brakes.
In short, there's a lot to like about the Sentra, especially considering its favorable pricing. But it's still a good idea to check out some other small sedans. One of our top choices this year is the Honda Civic, which has comparable turbocharged performance and interior room and is a little more stylish and fuel-efficient than the Sentra. If you want a sedan that's more refined and packed with more of the latest tech, check out the Mazda 3. We also recommend the Kia Forte if you're mostly after a sensible sedan that packs in a lot of features for your money.
The 2017 Nissan Sentra comes standard with antilock brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags and side curtain airbags. A rearview camera is standard starting at the SV trim level. The SR and SL trim levels can also be had with blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert (standard on SL) and adaptive cruise control with automatic emergency braking.
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 slightly 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 2017 Sentra earned an overall rating of four stars (out of a possible five), with four stars for front-impact protection and five stars for side-impact protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the 2017 Sentra its best rating of Good in its moderate-overlap and small-overlap front-impact tests. The Sentra also earned a Good rating in the side-impact, roof strength and seat/head restraint (whiplash protection) tests as well as a Superior rating for the effectiveness of its optional forward collision mitigation system.
2017 Nissan Sentra configurations
The 2017 Nissan Sentra is a five-passenger compact sedan offered in S, SV, SR, SR Turbo 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, 60/40-split folding rear seatbacks, a tilt-and-telescoping steering column, cruise control, Bluetooth phone connectivity and a four-speaker sound system with a CD player, a USB port and an auxiliary audio input jack.
Stepping up to the SV gets you keyless entry and ignition, upgraded cloth upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a 5-inch driver information screen in the instrument cluster, a 5-inch central touchscreen, a rearview camera, NissanConnect, Bluetooth audio connectivity and a six-speaker sound system with satellite radio.
The SR gets 17-inch alloy wheels, rear disc brakes, a sport body kit including a rear spoiler, LED headlights (low beams), foglights, heated mirrors, upgraded cloth upholstery and heated front seats. The SR Turbo adds a more powerful engine, a sport-tuned suspension, recalibrated steering, upgraded front brakes and a sunroof. Both the SR and SR Turbo are available with the Midnight Edition package, which adds black 17-inch wheels, black mirror caps and a black spoiler, as well as special floor mats.
The top-of-the-line SL loses the SR's sport-themed flourishes but adds unique 17-inch alloy wheels plus the rear disc brakes, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, a six-way power driver seat (with power lumbar adjustment), an auto-dimming rearview mirror and a larger 5.8-inch touchscreen with navigation and voice controls. A blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-path alert is also standard.
The All Weather package (SV only) includes heated front seats and heated outside mirrors. The Style package (SV only) adds distinctive 16-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, illuminated vanity mirrors and LED interior lighting.
The SR Premium Technology package starts with the contents of the Style package then tacks on the leather upholstery, power driver seat, auto-dimming mirror and bigger touchscreen with navigation from the SL. You also get adaptive cruise control with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert and an eight-speaker Bose audio system. The SR Turbo Premium package includes these same features.
The SL Premium Technology package adds the contents of the Style package (minus the 16-inch wheels) plus adaptive cruise control with autonomous emergency braking and the eight-speaker Bose audio system.
The 2017 Nissan Sentra comes equipped with one of two engines. A 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 130 horsepower and 128 pound-feet of torque is standard on the S, SV, SR and SL models. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on the S, and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is optional on that model and standard on all other Sentras.
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 new SR Turbo gets a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder, which puts out 188 hp and 177 lb-ft, mated to a choice of a six-speed manual or a specially calibrated CVT with manual-shift mode.
Driving
On the road, the 2017 Nissan Sentra suspension delivers a comfortable ride around town and on the highway. It's not a particularly engaging car to drive, though opting for the sportier SR Turbo model this year should push handling, steering feel and brake performance up a couple of notches. It's unknown whether the car's firmer suspension tuning and ride quality will be a turnoff for some buyers; we'll update this review once we've tested the new SR Turbo.
On the performance front, the standard 130-hp four-cylinder is suitable for everyday driving, but nothing more. Trying a highway pass or hitting the gas from a standstill results in lethargic acceleration. The CVT is a good match for this engine, at least, largely because it seems free of the tiresome "rubber band" and droning qualities that so often plague this type of transmission.
Interior
The 2017 Nissan Sentra offers an interior that's bigger than seems possible when viewed from the outside. Both front and rear seats offer excellent headroom and legroom, even for 6-footers.
The cabin's design is nothing fancy, but the quality of both materials and construction is good. Other noteworthy strengths include NissanConnect, a system that allows the driver to take advantage of smartphone-based apps such as Google search using the available 5.8-inch touchscreen. The touchscreen's simple menus make it easy to use, but there's no denying that it's one of the smallest screens in its class, and the resolution of its graphics is underwhelming.
The Sentra's trunk is spacious, with 15.1 cubic feet of stowage. Folding down one or both sections of the 60/40-split rear seatbacks expands cargo capacity further.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2017 Nissan Sentra.
Most helpful consumer reviews
2017 Nissan Sentra video
TRAVIS LANGNESS: I'm Edmunds editor Travis Langness. And this is an Expert Rundown of the 2017 Nissan Sentra. For 2017, the Nissan Sentra gets an all-new 1.6-liter turbocharged engine. And it's really a welcome addition. The base 1.8-liter engine is one of the slowest in the class. And the CVT transmission, the automatic transmission that it comes with, drones on pretty badly when you step on the accelerator. So we're happy to see that it's got a new, more powerful motor. One of the great things about the Sentra is that it's priced lower than most of its rivals. If you're looking for a bargain compact car, this is probably a good one to look at. Unfortunately, it doesn't come with a lot of good equipment. Base trim levels don't even come with Bluetooth streaming audio. So if you want more equipment, go for one of the mid-level trims. In the back seat, there's lots of room in the Sentra. The trunk is also one of the largest in the class, with over 15 cubic feet of space. And the Sentra's pretty comfortable on the highway. It has good seats and it'll last well on a road trip. Some of the problems with the Sentra include the slow, droning bass engine and the CVT as well as inferior materials quality on the inside. Basically, it just feels nicer in cars like the Mazda 3 and the Honda Civic. Bottom line. The Sentra's a good bargain and it provides good space. But we'd recommend looking at some of the other class leaders before you make a decision. For more reviews of key competitors, go to YouTube and check out more of the Edmunds Expert Rundowns.
2017 Nissan Sentra Expert Rundown Review
Looking for a roomy and fuel-efficient compact? The 2017 Nissan Sentra might be worth checking out. Here's a quick rundown of what we like, what we don't and the bottom line from the Edmunds editors.
Features & Specs
Safety
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See your car's valueThe 2017 Nissan Sentra keeps up this popular sedan's reputation for offering plenty of value. With lots of interior room and trunk space, the Sentra could be considered a small car with midsize ambitions, and a wide range of trim levels and optional packages and accessories allow buyers to make it more of a premium car experience.
Having undergone a refresh last year, the Sentra has been only mildly tweaked for 2017. Changes include more comfortable seats, a larger center console and a quieter ride, courtesy of thicker window glass and better insulation. But the big news is the addition of the new SR Turbo model, which features a high-output engine, a six-speed manual transmission or a specially calibrated automatic CVT, and sport-tuned suspension.
Inside, there's a surprising amount of room for passengers and plenty of storage space for their belongings in numerous cubbies and the 15.1-cubic-foot trunk. Nissan prices the Sentra pretty aggressively, which will appeal to value-conscious shoppers, and available features still include such niceties as dual-zone automatic climate control, leather seating, a premium sound system and the NissanConnect system, which facilitates the use of smartphone-based apps.
All 2017 Sentra trim levels except the SR Turbo come with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 130 horsepower. The new SR Turbo model is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine that increases output to 188 hp. The base S model is equipped with a standard six-speed manual gearbox, and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is an option on the S and standard on all other trims, except the Turbo, which offers a choice of the two transmissions.
Power with the base engine is adequate but not particularly impressive when compared to many competitors. The standard suspension is tuned more for comfort and stability than handling, so although it provides a decent ride, cornering requires higher-than-average steering input and results in considerable body roll. Buyers seeking a bit more performance might want to test-drive the SR Turbo with its free-revving engine, which offers improved low- and mid-range zip. But even with its firmer suspension, the SR Turbo still doesn't excel in the handling department.
The best fuel economy in the Sentra lineup is achieved with the standard engine and the CVT, which returns an EPA rating of 32 mpg combined (29 city/37 highway). The lowest-rated model is the SR Turbo equipped with the manual transmission at 28 mpg combined (26 city/32 highway).
The base Sentra S comes very well equipped with features such as automatic headlights, air-conditioning and cruise control. Moving up to the SV trim level brings some extra comfort and technology items, while the SR adds on a number of sporty touches. The top-of-the-line SL piles on more luxury and convenience. Finally, the SR Turbo gives drivers more performance, as well as some unique styling touches and a host of additional features. Whatever your preference, let Edmunds help you find the 2017 Nissan Sentra that best meets your needs.
2017 Nissan Sentra Overview
The 2017 Nissan Sentra is offered in the following submodels: Sentra Sedan, Sentra NISMO. Available styles include S 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT), SV 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT), SR 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT), SR TURBO 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo CVT), SL 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT), S 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 6M), SR TURBO 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6M), NISMO 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6M), and NISMO 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo CVT).
What do people think of the 2017 Nissan Sentra?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2017 Nissan Sentra and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2017 Sentra 3 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2017 Sentra.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2017 Nissan Sentra and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2017 Sentra featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2017 Nissan Sentra?
2017 Nissan Sentra SR TURBO 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
The 2017 Nissan Sentra SR TURBO 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6M) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $23,075. The average price paid for a new 2017 Nissan Sentra SR TURBO 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6M) is trending $4,005 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $4,005 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$19,070.
The average savings for the 2017 Nissan Sentra SR TURBO 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6M) is17.4% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 3 2017 Nissan Sentra SR TURBO 4dr Sedan (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6M) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2017 Nissan Sentra SL 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT)
The 2017 Nissan Sentra SL 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $22,845. The average price paid for a new 2017 Nissan Sentra SL 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT) is trending $3,665 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $3,665 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$19,180.
The average savings for the 2017 Nissan Sentra SL 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT) is16% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 1 2017 Nissan Sentra SL 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl CVT) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
Which 2017 Nissan Sentras are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2017 Nissan Sentra for sale near. There are currently 5 new 2017 Sentras listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $21,875 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the Carfax and Autocheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2017 Nissan Sentra. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $4,066 on a used or CPO 2017 Sentra available from a dealership near you.
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Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2017 Nissan Sentra?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
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