Let’s get to it: Nissan presents the perfect formula for practicality, value, and attractiveness without breaking the bank with the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR.
Exterior design leans aggressively sporty and I dig it. The 18-inch alloy wheels, LED signature headlights and taillights; a dark V-Motion grille, gloss-black rear spoiler, and sport-style rear bumper gift the Sentra SR with a sharper, more sinister presence in a good way. With a starting MSRP of $25,000, and as reviewed fully equipped including the recommended Premium Package going for just under $32,000, this version changes the game for compact sedans.
Under the hood, the Sentra SR is powered by a 2.0-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine producing 149 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque, paired with Nissan’s Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission. And while you might not be winning drag races with this sedan, the driving experience is more about maneuverability and balance, with an independent strut front and multilink rear suspension delivering optimal handling. The trio of different drive modes—Eco, Standard, and Sport—will help you get your customizing on. This version also comes with the standard Idle Stop/Start which is geared towards improving efficiency in especially daily commuting, but I usually turn it off when reviewing cars; I like to just get up and go without the millisecond delay, but that’s me.
Inside, the 12.3-inch dual-screen display is complete with a digital instrument cluster and intuitive infotainment interface. Nissan continues to not hold back, gifting passengers with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto; a wireless charging pad; ambient lighting; Bluetooth connectivity; and multiple USB-C ports to keep everyone happy. The aforementioned Premium Package includes leatherette sport seating, power-adjustable front seats with lumbar support, and what I always appreciate—premium sound; a Bose eight-speaker audio system to be exact. The slide-and-tilt moonroof with manual sunshade ($680) is worthy of consideration to enhance the cabin.
Safety gets some love as well, with the suite of Nissan Safety Shield technologies, including forward automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection; blind spot warning and intervention; rear cross traffic alert; and lane departure warning with prevention to name a few. Other features like traffic sign recognition, high beam assist, intelligent cruise control, and highly recommended intelligent around view monitor boost the confidence of whoever is behind the wheel. With all these applications, the Sentra SR is the perfect car for a first-time driver, college student, or couple starting up a family. Ultimately, Nissan made this automobile for anyone wanting to get the most bang for their buck and look good doing it
Fuel economy: 29 mpg city/36 highway /32 Combined
Price: MSRP of $25,000, and as reviewed fully equipped including the Premium Package going for just under $31,945
For more information, visit Nissanusa.com