2021 Nissan Sentra Review: Trim Levels, Specifications, New Packages, Pricing and More

The 2021 Nissan Sentra is proof that you don't have to break the bank to get a reliable set of wheels. The pragmatic sedan, which has just undergone a complete redesign, scored highly in the JD Power 2020 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) study, scoring 42 points above the segment average. The Sentra has also been named one of the auto trader "Best New Cars of 2020" and "Top 10 Cars for Recent College Graduates."

Here's a sneak peek at the 2021 Nissan Sentra.

How much does a 2021 Nissan Sentra cost?

The new Sentra is available in three trim levels: S, SV and SR. Here are the starting figures for the suggested retail price for each (including the $925 destination fee).

• Sentra S: $20,335
• Sentra SV: $21,395
• Sentra SR: $22,675

The Sentra sits between the Versa and Altima in Nissan's lineup.

Nissan Sentra 2021. Photo: Nissan North America.

Transmission and fuel economy

Under the hood is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 149 horsepower and 146 lb-ft. torque. Direct injection and variable valve timing systems in the engine help improve performance and fuel economy. The Nissan Xtronic transmission sends power to the front wheels.

As of this writing, EPA fuel economy estimates for the 2021 Nissan Sentra are not available online. fueleconomy.gov . However, the 2020 model returns nearly 40 mpg back on the highway. We expect the 2021 Sentra to perform similarly.

All-wheel drive Nissan Sentra

Unfortunately no. The 2021 Sentra is only available with front-wheel drive. However, given the price, that's probably okay. While all-wheel drive has its advantages, it would also increase the Sentra's cost (both initially and in long-term maintenance) and reduce fuel economy. However, all-wheel drive is available on the larger Altima sedan.

A MacPherson strut (front) with twin-tube shock absorbers helps improve ride quality along with independent rear suspension. Electric power steering and Nissan Intelligent Trace Control technology are standard. Photo: Nissan North America.

2021 Nissan Sentra: specs and safety features

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on every trim level, while the SR has the option for NissanConnect Services and NissanConnect with Wi-Fi hotspot. The SV and SR models include two front USB ports (type A and type C) and one rear charge-only USB port (type A). The S model has one front USB port (type A) with an iPod interface. A 12V DC outlet is standard on every 2021 Sentra.

Safety features include seat-mounted driver and front passenger side airbags, roof curtain side airbags with a rollover sensor, and driver and front passenger knee airbags. The LATCH system (lower anchors and harnesses for children) is standard on every Nissan Sentra. Body side reinforcements, hood creases and an energy-absorbing steering column all provide additional protection in the event of an impact.

Besides, Nissan Safety Shield 360 standard on all 2021 Sentra models. The package includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, lane departure warning, high beam assist and rear automatic braking.

The interior of the 2021 Nissan Sentra. Photo: Nissan North America.

Specifications and options by trim level

Cloth seats are standard on the S model, while leather-trimmed seats are available on the SV. Prima-Tex leatherette seats are optional on the SR. Heated seats are also available in SV and SR trims.

A seven-inch touchscreen is standard on the S model. SV and SR trims get a larger eight-inch touchscreen. An eight-speaker premium Bose stereo system is available for the Sentra SR. SiriusXM is standard on the SV and SR, but not available on the S. Dual-zone automatic climate control is standard on the SV and SR, but not available on the S.

Extra Premium Packages

AT SV Premium package includes 17-inch alloy wheels, sunroof, quilted leather seats (front and rear), six-way power driver's seat with two-way lumbar support, heated front. seats and leather shift knob.

SR Premium Package includes LED headlights with LED daytime running lights, sunroof, heated steering wheel, heated front seats, Prima-Tex seats, hex-adjustable driver's seat with 2-way lumbar support, Bose audio, Surround View Smart Monitor and rear view mirror with auto dimming, as well as other functions.

The rear seats are 60/40 split and fold down. A rear center armrest with cupholders is standard on the SV and SR. Photo: Nissan North America.

Warranty coverage

Every new Sentra comes with a three-year, 36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 5-year, 60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Depending on how much you drive, you may benefit from a Nissan Extended Warranty.

2021 Nissan Sentra Competitors

The Nissan Sentra is a good deal, but it has stiff competition. The Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla and Mazda3 are firm favorites, as is the new Hyundai Elantra. Hyundai has given the Elantra an extensive redesign for 2021 and even dropped the sporty N Line variant in early 2020. We recommend testing each of these vehicles and seeing which one best suits your preferences.

Given the features and options available, we probably would have skipped the Sentra S. While it has a great price, it's too basic for us. For example, the lack of satellite radio, heated seats, dual-zone climate control, and limited USB ports are breaking the rules for us. Although they are a bit more expensive, the SR and SV provide more standard features and have more options available. Any of these trim levels will be the best option for your investment.

Carl Anthony is the Managing Editor of BlogAvto and a member of the Midwest Automotive Media Association and the Society of Automotive Historians. He is on the board of directors of the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, a former president of the Detroit Working Writers, and a devoted fan of the Detroit Lions.

2021 Nissan Sentra Gallery

Photo and source: Nissan North America.