Nissan Sentra New Cars 2010

The just-introduced sixth-generation Nissan Sentra has grown up. It's larger, especially inside, very well-equipped, yet still reasonably priced and offers a more upscale experience than expected from a compact sedan.

The debut of the smaller and less-expensive Versa as the new entry-level Nissan has allowed the Sentra's increased stature and status. Underneath its recognizably Nissan styling lies the company's new "C" front-engine, front-wheel drive platform. With a 5.9-inch increase in wheelbase but only a 2.3-inch growth in overall length, and greater height and width, the new Sentra emphasizes passenger space.

Power is from a new 140 horsepower, 2.0-liter engine, which, unusually, is matched to either a six-speed manual or optional continuously-variable (CVT) transmission. The chassis is standard for the class, a front-engine, front-wheel drive unibody with independent strut front suspension and a torsion beam axle in the rear, but the suspension tuning is better than average, providing both a comfortable ride and good handling.

There are three trim levels, base, S, and SL. The base model is well-equipped, with power windows and door locks, microfilter air conditioning, an AM/FM/CD audio system with an auxiliary input jack for external audio players, a 60/40 split flip and fold rear seat, and side-curtain airbags among its standard features. The S adds to that with larger, 16-inch, wheels, power outside mirrors, an upgraded audio system, interior upgrades, and available options. The SL is almost a pocket luxury cruiser, with leather-trimmed seats and most of the options available in the lesser models as standard equipment. These include the CVT, antilock brakes, the "Intelligent Key" keyless ignition and entry system, hands-free wiring for Bluetooth¨-equipped cell phones, and convenient touches like a CD holder behind the driver's sun visor and the "Divide-N-Hide" trunk partition system. Either XM or Sirius satellite radio systems are available in the S and SL trim levels.

Entry level it is not, but with prices ranging from $14,750 for the base model through $15,650 for the S and $18,400 for the SL, the 2007 Nissan Sentra is not a budget-killer, either. I've just spent a week with a well-equipped S model with the manual transmission. It was a spacious and comfortable car with a sporty personality.

Nissan Sentra
Nissan Sentra
Nissan Sentra
Nissan Sentra
Nissan Sentra