2010 Nissan Sentra Review

The 2010 Nissan Sentra is offered in six separate trims: 2.0, 2.0 S, 2.0 SR, 2.0 SL, SE-R and SE-R Spec V. All 2.0 trims feature a MR20DE 2.0L 140hp 147 lb ft 16 valve DOHC 4 clylinder engine coupled with an Xtronic 6-speed CVT transmission. A 9.7 to 1 compression ratio provides ready power while achieving a Tier 2, Bin 5 emissions rating. It carries over once more with minimal changes since its complete redesign in 2007.

The Sentra from Nissan is classified as a compact car, but it doesn't feel that small. In a larger class than the likes of the Honda Fit, 2009 Nissan Versa and Toyota Yaris, it sits in competition with the Toyota Corolla, Chevrolet Cobalt LS, Ford Focus S and the Honda Civic DX. Manufacturer's suggested retail pricing ranges from $15,420 up to $20,080. All trims are 4-door, front wheel drive sedans with no hatchback offered. Interior finishing standards are quite refined and create the ambience of a considerably more expensive vehicle. And if you fold down the rear seating, there's actually enough room inside for two people to sleep.

The SE-R Sentra from Nissan features a higher performing 2.5L 177hp 4 cylinder and a paddle shifter version of the Xtronic CVT. The SE-R Spec V comes to you with a 2.5L 200hp engine mated to a 6-speed close-ratio manual tranny and sport tuned suspension system. Overall vehicular dimensions for 2.0 trims measure 179.8 x 70.5 x 59.5 inches in length, width and height respectively and ride atop a 105.7 inch wheelbase. Additionally, the ground is cleared by 5.7 inches. With less than 100 pounds difference between trims, the curb weight of the new Sentra is roughly 2900 pounds.

Drivers and passengers remain adequately comfortable inside of the 2010 Sentra with 41 inches of frontal headroom (37 in the rear), 57 inches of frontal shoulder room (55 rear), 54 inches of front hip room (53 rear) and 42.4 inches of frontal legroom (34.5 rear). 13.1 cubic feet of cargo capacity is presented along with standard seating for five full grown adults. The Sentra can also tow up to 1000 pounds behind it. 17.7 feet of radius is required for turning. EPA estimations for fuel efficiency range between 24/31 MPG up to 26/34 MPG trim dependent. All models come with a 14.5 gallon fuel tank.

The 2010 Nissan Sentra is also well-loaded with standard safety features. It has earned a 5-star frontal crash test rating from the NHTSA due largely to the Nissan Advanced Airbag System, vehicle dynamic control (VDC), traction control system (TCS) and its Zone Body crumple-resistant construction standards. All creature features are included including Bluetooth connectivity, available navigation, auxiliary input jacks, iPod interface, mp3/WMA/CD stereo and more. Overall customer satisfaction rates are very appreciable and Nissan continues building its successful history with the nearly iconic Sentra.