2010 Nissan Sentra

The 2010 Nissan Sentra ranks 25 out of 31 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 63 published reviews and test drives of the Nissan Sentra, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

To begin with, the 2010 Sentra received a slightly updated exterior with new headlights, taillights and a redesigned grille. All trims also received higher quality cloth interiors compared to previous model years.

The "2010 Nissan Sentra" has a lot going for it -- decent gas mileage, a comfortable and roomy cabin and an impressive list of interior features -- so reviewers agree that it's a good choice as a daily driver. If you're looking for a higher quality interior with a similarly long list of features in the same general price range, have a look at the Volkswagen Golf.

The Sentra's four basic trims (2.0, 2.0 S, 2.0 SR and 2.0 SL) are offered with a two-liter four-cylinder engine while the two more upscale trims (SE-R and SE-R Spec V) boast stronger engines.
The Nissan Sentra has been vying for the wallets of economy-car shoppers since 1982.

For automotive enthusiasts, a key point in the Nissan Sentra's history came with the introduction of the SE-R version that debuted in 1991. Current Nissan Sentra
The Nissan Sentra small sedan is available in six main trim levels: 2.0, 2.0 S, 2.0 SR, 2.0 SL, SE-R and SE-R Spec V. All models but the SE-R get a 2.0-liter inline-4 that makes 140 hp. The 2.0 SR is essentially a 2.0 S with an SE-R-inspired body kit and 16-inch alloy wheels. We've found this Sentra to be comfortable, roomy, economical and peppy. The SE-R, especially in Spec V form, provides stirring performance. Used

Nissan Sentra Models
Nissan's fifth-generation Sentra ran from 2000-'06. Available in sedan form only, it was initially available in base XE, nicely equipped GXE and top-of-the-line SE trims. The sporty SE-R returned in '02, and just like today, there were two versions: the standard SE-R (165 hp, five-speed manual) and the hot rod SE-R Spec V (175 hp, six-speed manual, 17-inch wheels).

At the time, our editors praised this Sentra for its functional cabin design, nimble handling, many standard features and peppy SE-R trim level. (Notably, independent rear suspension has never returned to the Sentra line -- today's sixth-generation car continues on with a rear torsion-beam setup.) All trims but the SE had a 115-hp engine, while the SE actually featured the same 140-hp engine as the previous SE-R.

The sporty SE-R debuted with the third-generation Nissan Sentra (1991-'94). With 140 hp, four-wheel disc brakes and a tuned, fully independent suspension, the Nissan Sentra SE-R coupe provided a lot of bang for the buck and was a favorite among driving enthusiasts. All other Sentras of this generation had a 110-hp engine and trims included the stripper E, base XE, sporty SE and well-equipped GXE.