2026 Nissan Sentra Gets Fresh Look and Tech, Keeps Same Engine
The Nissan Sentra ushers in a new generation for the 2026 model year. First previewed by a series of photos from China earlier in September, the car today made its official debut and will hit the market by the end of 2025.
Before we go any further, let's just say that the Japanese compact sedan isn't a bad car. User-friendly, affordable and fuel-efficient, it was named best in its class in J.D. Power's most recent Initial Quality Study, and Consumer Reports even picked the Sentra as one of its 10 Best Vehicles of 2025. However, sales are slightly below average: only the Subaru Impreza sold fewer units in Canada during the first half of the year.
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Evolved But Not Transformed
Three words guided designers of the 2026 Nissan Sentra: daring, vitalizing, resonating. When looking at the end result, however, we can’t talk about a serious transformation. The biggest change is the more beveled shapes, especially at the front, which is reminiscent of the all-new 2026 Nissan LEAF or even a Peugeot 508. The new headlights with available LED signature naturally grab most of the attention.
At the rear, the redesigned taillights now get the full-width treatment and are very reminiscent of those of the Honda Accord. Available in a size of 16 or 18 inches, the various wheel designs feature bold, intersecting lines. Meanwhile, revised body colour selection includes two-tone options with a black roof on some models, which makes for a more dynamic appearance.
Dual 12.3-Inch Displays
Unsurprisingly, the 2026 Nissan Sentra's interior emphasizes technology. At the top of the lineup, dual 12.3-inch displays face the driver. There’s wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration except in base trim. A wireless phone charger is now available, with three USB-C ports serving as an alternative.
The steering wheel has been redesigned and has only two spokes, while the HVAC controls are largely located on a touch-sensitive panel. The latter results in a cleaner layout, for sure, but can cause distraction for the driver.
By the way, the new Sentra is available in S, SV Premium and SR Premium trim levels. The last one is sportier looking both inside and out, not to mention more luxurious with synthetic leather seats, a Bose audio system, a power sunroof and a garage door opener, among other features. Nissan has also enlarged the trunk’s opening for easier loading.
Same Engine, Still No Hybrid
We had to see this coming, of course, but we can’t help but feel disappointed that the 2026 Nissan Sentra retains a single engine option, namely the same 2.0-litre four-cylinder as the outgoing generation, which is rated at 149 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque. The sole transmission is a continuously variable Xtronic unit, apparently revised and improved for smoother and more responsive acceleration. We'll see how it performs when we test it. Most Sentra models also offer a drive mode selector, including a Sport mode that firms up the steering and shortens throttle response.
Fuel consumption figures will be announced at a later date. However, given the nearly identical powertrain, expect them to remain largely unchanged. The CVT-equipped 2025 Sentra achieves a combined 6.6 or 6.9 L/100 km depending on the trim level, making it one of the most efficient non-hybrid sedans in the segment. Unfortunately, it looks like a Sentra Hybrid is still a few years away.
In other news, Nissan engineers have increased the Sentra's structural rigidity by 6 percent for greater stability on the road. At the same time, new shock absorber valving helps mitigate harshness from bumps, and the steering wheel features an enlarged dynamic damper that effectively reduces road vibrations. That's not all: tighter body openings throughout the vehicle help reduce noise levels in the cabin.
As for safety and driver assistance, the comprehensive arsenal includes a new feature called blind spot intervention. In other words, if the driver attempts to change lanes despite the presence of another vehicle in a blind spot, the Sentra will apply the brakes and/or make subtle steering adjustments to stay in the lane. ProPILOT Assist is now available to simplify stop-and-go commutes by handling acceleration, steering and braking.
How Much?
Canadian pricing for the 2026 Nissan Sentra will be announced closer to its on-sale date in late fall. Since there's no longer a manual transmission, the entry price is expected to rise significantly. As a reminder, the 2025 lineup ranges from $23,898-$31,148 (MSRP).