2026 Nissan Sentra SR Review -- Bold

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A transcript, cleaned up by AI and edited by a staffer, is below.

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Transcript:

And here I am, back in Arizona in the exact same spot where I recently filmed the RAV4—go check out that video.

Today, I have the all-new 2026 Nissan Sentra, a bestselling compact sedan that gets a number of updates for 2026. Up front, there are new LED lights and a completely redesigned grille. This is the top-spec SR with the Premium package, which adds lighting across the front and a sleeker, more modern look overall. For this segment, the styling feels especially sharp.

I don’t have pricing yet, but that should be coming soon.

Under the hood, the engine remains the same for 2026, producing 149 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque. However, Nissan has improved the CVT and reduced ride noise, resulting in smoother acceleration and a more refined driving experience. So while it’s not a full overhaul, there are meaningful updates.

Inside, it’s very comfortable. The Sentra continues to use Nissan’s Zero Gravity seats, which I’ve always liked. They’re soft and supportive, developed using technology inspired by NASA. I remember the first time I experienced them—likely in a Pathfinder or another Nissan SUV—and they stood out immediately. Now, every time I get into a Nissan, I look forward to that same level of comfort.

On this top-spec model, you get 18-inch wheels. These may differ slightly in Canada, but they are available as an option. The Sentra also has a coupe-like, fastback profile, although it still features a traditional trunk.

For 2026, the trunk opening is now lower and wider, making it easier to load and unload cargo. While the overall cargo space hasn’t changed, accessibility has improved. There are also rear seat release levers back here for the 60/40 split-folding seats. With the seats down, there’s a surprising amount of space—enough to fit something like a 55-inch TV.

Inside the cabin, everything is new for 2026. On higher trims, you get dual 12.3-inch screens. Lower trims pair a 12.3-inch display with a 7-inch screen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included on the top trims, along with Nissan’s infotainment system.

ProPILOT Assist—Nissan’s advanced adaptive cruise control—is also available, and it works very well. Other features include capacitive-touch dual-zone climate controls, heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a push-button start.

The center console is well laid out, with a solid gear selector, two USB-C ports, a 12-volt outlet, good-sized cupholders, and a crisp, clear 360-degree camera system. The center armrest is also well-sized.

The seats in this SR Premium trim stand out, with unique design details and red stitching that carries over to the steering wheel and gear selector. The flat-bottom steering wheel adds a sporty touch. This trim uses leatherette upholstery, while base models come with cloth. The SR trim also features perforated seat surfaces and additional red accents.

In the rear, there’s a center armrest with cupholders, LATCH anchors for child seats, and decent space. For reference, I’m 5'1", and this is set to my driving position, so there’s plenty of room. Top trims also include a sunroof and a USB-C port for rear passengers. Materials are what you’d expect for the segment—mostly plastic, but well put together.

A couple of additional features worth mentioning: this top trim includes 64-color ambient lighting, which is hard to see in daylight but a nice touch for a compact sedan. There’s also an animated lighting sequence in the front headlights when approaching the car with the key fob, something you’ll notice more at night.

The intelligent key system allows the car to lock as you walk away and unlock as you approach, which is always convenient. This trim also gets an eight-speaker Bose premium audio system, while lower trims come with a four-speaker setup.

Overall, the new styling feels more modern and slightly more aggressive, which suits the car well.

As for pricing, I don’t have details yet. Both pricing and availability are expected later this year, and I’ll update that information once it’s available.

Let me know what you think—feel free to leave a comment or question, and don’t forget to subscribe. You can also find me on social media at XOConnie Peters. I’ll see you in the next one.