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Nissan Sentra

The Nissan Sentra is a compact sedan produced by Nissan since 1982.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Nissan Sentra is a compact sedan produced by Nissan since 1982. It has been sold primarily as a four-door sedan and is known as an affordable, practical model in Nissan’s lineup. The 2026 redesign brought new styling and updated interior technology while retaining a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive.

History

The Sentra was introduced in 1982 as Nissan’s replacement for the Datsun 210. It marked an important step in Nissan’s brand transition, becoming the first model sold solely under the Nissan name.

Design and body styles

Over time, the Sentra has been offered as a coupe, wagon, hatchback, and sedan. In recent years, it has been sold only as a sedan.

Current generation

For 2026, Nissan redesigned the Sentra with new exterior and interior styling and updated technology. The model retains a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, CVT, and front-wheel drive.

Market position

The Sentra is positioned as Nissan’s compact, value-oriented sedan. It competes with long-running rivals such as the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla.

Key facts

  • The Sentra debuted in 1982 and replaced the Datsun 210 in Nissan’s lineup.
  • Earlier Sentra generations were sold in several body styles, including coupes, wagons, and hatchbacks.
  • The 2026 Sentra uses a 149-horsepower 2.0-litre engine with a CVT and front-wheel drive.
  • Trim levels for the 2026 model include S, SV, SR, and SL.
  • The Sentra remains one of Nissan’s more affordable passenger cars.
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Canadian context

The Sentra is relevant to Canadian buyers as a compact, value-oriented sedan in a segment that is popular for commuting and everyday use. Canadian readers may also encounter the model in the same small-car market as the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Nissan Sentra?
The Nissan Sentra is a compact sedan sold by Nissan since 1982.
When was the Nissan Sentra introduced?
The Sentra debuted in 1982.
What body style is the Sentra currently sold in?
The Sentra is currently sold as a four-door sedan.
What engine does the 2026 Sentra use?
The 2026 Sentra uses a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine rated at 149 horsepower.
Is the Sentra front-wheel drive?
Yes. The 2026 Sentra is front-wheel drive.
What trim levels are available on the 2026 Sentra?
The 2026 Sentra is offered in S, SV, SR, and SL trims.

References

  1. Car and Driver — https://www.caranddriver.com/nissan/sentra
    Supports: 2026 Sentra redesign, engine, transmission, drivetrain, body style, seating.
  2. CarGurus — https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/Nissan-Sentra-Overview-d249
    Supports: 1982 debut, replacement of Datsun 210, first Nissan-badged car, body-style history, sedan-only recent availability.
  3. Top Gear — https://www.topgear.com/car-reviews/usa/nissan/sentra-us
    Supports: 2026 Sentra engine output and front-wheel-drive layout.
  4. Edmunds — https://www.edmunds.com/nissan/sentra/
    Supports: 2026 Sentra trim levels, engine, transmission, compact-sedan positioning.
  5. Cars.com — https://www.cars.com/research/nissan-sentra/
    Supports: Sentra segment rivals and role as a practical compact car.
  6. Capital One — https://www.capitalone.com/cars/overview/nissan/sentra/2026
    Supports: 2026 trim levels, seating, cargo space, fuel economy, driver-assistance features, ninth-generation redesign.
  7. Edmunds — https://www.edmunds.com/car-news/2026-nissan-sentra-first-drive-review.html
    Supports: 2026 redesign and continued use of the 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine.