New 2026 Nissan Sentra: A Sleek & Smart Civic Rival Arrives!
The 2026 Nissan Sentra is making waves as a redesigned compact sedan aimed at budget-conscious car buyers. With the potential discontinuation of the Versa after 2025, the Sentra is poised to become Nissan's entry-level model, making this refresh even more crucial.
What's New on the 2026 Sentra?
While the engine remains familiar – a 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 149 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque paired with an Xtronic CVT – the 2026 Sentra boasts a completely redesigned exterior. The new look features an evolved V-motion grille extending into slim headlights and incorporating aerodynamic improvements like smaller wheel openings and drag-reducing side mirrors.
The dimensions have also been tweaked; the new Sentra is slightly longer and taller, although the wheelbase is a tad shorter. Nissan is estimating fuel economy at 29 mpg city, 38 mpg highway, and 33 mpg combined, which is a slight decrease compared to the 2025 model.
Trim Levels and Features
Nissan is expanding the Sentra lineup to four trims: S, SV, SL, and SR. Wheel options range from 16 to 18 inches. Inside, a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay comes standard, along with a 7.0-inch meter.
- Engine: 2.0-liter four-cylinder (149 hp, 146 lb-ft torque)
- Transmission: Xtronic CVT
- Fuel Economy (estimated): 29 mpg city / 38 mpg highway / 33 mpg combined
- Infotainment: 12.3-inch touchscreen with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
The 2026 Nissan Sentra aims to be a strong contender in the affordable compact sedan market, offering a fresh design and enhanced features to attract value-seeking consumers in South Africa.