Quick Spin
WHAT IS IT?
The mildly refreshed 2010 Nissan Sentra (new lights, front fascia, wheels) is a little car that can be a lot of things to a lot of people, including enthusiasts. At the base level, the Sentra 2.0 is pretty stark, although it does come with way more standard goodies than are available on the Versa, which has usurped the Sentra’s role as the cheapest of the cheap in the Nissan lineup. The 2.0SL model adds upscale features, including newly available leather seats, as well as an in-dash navigation system (come January 2010) that will cost just $400. Finally, the SE-R continues to serve the enthusiast population with its 177-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder, with horsepower climbing to an even 200 when joined by the “Spec V” suffix, which also brings a six-speed stick in place of the SE-R’s continuously variable transmission. All non–SE-R Sentras get restyled lights and noses, and all Sentras regardless of trim get standard electronic stability control.
HOW DOES IT DRIVE?
With its 140-hp four-banger and CVT, the Sentra 2.0SL is quite quiet and subdued, but alas, it doesn’t like to boogie. If you want more scoot and a more responsive chassis, don’t stop until you see SE-R on the decklid. Bummer we didn’t get a chance to drive one during our brief preview in San Diego.
HOW DOES IT STACK UP?
For the money, the Mazda 3 is far more charismatic from behind the wheel. Indeed, the Sentra SE-R Spec V flopped in a 2007 comparison test of five pocket rockets when it was all-new, and not a lot has been done to liven it up since. The value story remains strong, but as a driver’s car, we’re afraid it’s slipping toward the back of the pack.
WHAT’S THE COST?
The Sentra starts at $16,140 for the base model and rises to just over $20,000 for the SE-R. A new model, the 2.0SR, combines the look of the SE-R with the frugality of the base Sentra’s 2.0-liter and CVT powertrain for $17,880. The focus of Nissan’s refresh effort was on the 2.0SL, which effects a $1100 price reduction compared with a comparably equipped ’09 model. SE-Rs are also down more than a grand. All are on sale now.
