The 2015 Nissan Sentra ranks 29 out of 42 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of published reviews and test drives of the Nissan Sentra, as well as reliability and safety data.
The 2015 Nissan Sentra is ranked: #29
in Affordable Small Cars #17
in Affordable Compact Cars
Critics don't think the 2015 Nissan Sentra is particularly powerful or entertaining to drive, but they note that its high fuel economy and large interior make it a decent option for daily commutes.
Most reviewers write that the 2015 Sentra's four-cylinder engine lacks power, noting that highway passing is particularly difficult. The Sentra comes standard with a manual transmission, and an automatic (CVT) is available. According to the EPA, the 2015 Nissan Sentra gets 29/39 mpg city/highway with the automatic, which is high compared with the fuel economy of other compact cars. Most test drivers write that the Sentra has a generally comfortable ride, though a few wish for a more forgiving suspension over rough roads. The Nissan Sentra also has a fair amount of body roll through turns and lacks the handling agility that is offered by a number of rivals, according to most critics.
Test drivers report that the 2015 Nissan Sentra's rear seats are spacious, though they think its front seats could offer more support. The Sentra also has a large trunk for the class, and critics praise the Sentra's handsome, low-key interior styling and premium materials. A USB port and Bluetooth are standard. Options include a rearview camera, an eight-speaker Bose audio system, proximity key, navigation and the NissanConnect infotainment system with a 5.8-inch touch screen. Critics report that the infotainment system is easy to operate and that it is easy to pair a phone via Bluetooth.
"The Nissan Sentra offers compact sedan buyers a well-trimmed interior, generous rear seat and trunk space, and excellent fuel efficiency. A slightly anemic engine and mellow chassis tuning mean that the Sentra is hardly the quickest or most exciting of its competitive set, but for those simply seeking comfortable and economical transportation, it fits the bill quite nicely." -- Left Lane News
"If you're looking for a turbocharged engine, aggressive handling or a manual transmission on more than just the base car, you'll need to look to the Dodge Dart, Mazda3 or Ford Focus. Hyundai's Elantra is also a premium player in the bang-for-the-buck game." -- Kelley Blue Book
"The 2015 Nissan Sentra places small-car value into a roomy and efficient package that borders on midsize sedan comfort and style." -- AutoTrader
"Adequate, then, is the right word for this car. It gets you from point to point and does so pretty efficiently. It's not exciting to look at or to drive, but it's not trying to be. It's easy to drive and live with, and if you're looking for a good commuter car, you're in the right place." -- Motor Trend (2013)
The Mazda3 is one of the most fun-to-drive cars in the segment, according to reviewers. They rave about its nimble handling and ample engine power, as well as its upscale cabin materials, and it gets good fuel economy for the class.
Like the Sentra, the Chevrolet Cruze has a spacious trunk and earns praise for its roomy back seat. Reviewers like its balanced ride and handling, and with its available diesel engine, the Cruze has ample power and gets great fuel economy.
Compare the Sentra, Mazda3 and Cruze »
Details: 2015 Nissan Sentra
The 2015 Nissan Sentra seats five and has front-wheel drive. A 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and six-speed manual transmission are standard. A continuously variable transmission is optional. There are five trim levels: S, the fuel economy-oriented FE+S, SV, SR and SL. The Sentra has received few substantial changes since its last redesign for the 2013 model year. As a result, this overview uses applicable research and reviews from the 2013 to 2015 model years.
