2020 Nissan Sentra
Redesigned entirely for the 2020 model year, Nissan is back and better than ever with its long-running Sentra compact sedan. The fuel economy superstar is now in its eighth generation after having debuted in 1982 and becoming one of Nissan’s best-selling vehicles to the tune of six million units sold and counting. Some updates include an advanced safety technology suite, access to the brand’s more exclusive features such as the floating roof for top-tiers, and much more.
149
Max. Horsepower
2.0-liter Inline-Four
Avail. Engine Type
8″
Avail. Touchscreen
Performance
Style
Technology
Performance
What’s new for 2020?
The 2020 Sentra model offers plenty of visual nods to the Altima and Maxima models, while also borrowing design cues from the Kicks and Rogue models as well. The entry-level compact features the same V-motion grille as the rest of Nissan’s lineup, with slim LED headlights available as an upgrade. Additionally, the 2020 Sentra even features the floating roof that’s found elsewhere in the Nissan family. Buyers who opt for the top-tier SR trim can enjoy a Sentra equipped with a sport-style rear spoiler, larger 18-inch alloy wheels, darkened chrome on the grille, and black-painted side mirrors.
Engine
Buyers interested in the 2020 Sentra have the option to choose from three different trims: S, SV, and SR. Under the hood, Nissan upgraded to a more powerful 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine to replace the outgoing 1.8-liter engine. The new engine generates 149 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque, a 20 percent and 16 percent improvement over the outgoing 1.8-liter. There’s also a new “Xtronic” continuously variable transmission that’s paired to the all-new four-cylinder engine. Fuel efficiency numbers are believed to be improved, but no actual figures are available yet.
Style
Exterior Features
The 2020 Sentra is offered in eight different colors: Brilliant Silver Metallic, Gun Metallic, Aspen White, Electric Blue, Super Black, Rosewood Metallic, Fresh Powder, and Scarlet Ember. Nissan also offers three two-tone paint options — Super Black/Aspen White, Super Black/Gun Metallic, and Super Black/Monarch Orange. Nissan also amped up the Sentra’s platform to reduce the car’s height by 2.2 inches while extending its width by 2.0 inches. With these improved proportions, the 2020 Nissan Sentra has a more prominent stance and is an improvement over the last generation.
Interior Features
On the inside, the Sentra’s new cabin features a straightforward dashboard complete with user-friendly switchgear. The 2020 Sentra features improved materials, chrome detailing, a more organized dash, and contrast seat stitching. Materials range among trim levels, varying from cloth to leather upholstery, but even the cloth options are a significant improvement when compared with the previous-generation Sentra. The top-tier Sentra offers a leather trim option with Nissan’s signature “Zero Gravity” seats available as an upgrade. Optional features include ambient interior lighting, heated front seats, a power sunroof, and memory settings for the driver’s seat.
Technology
Entertainment
The Sentra S trim comes with a standard 7.0-inch infotainment touchscreen display, while the SV and SR trims feature a larger 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen display instead. All Nissan Sentra vehicles, regardless of trim, come complete with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities as well as handsfree Bluetooth connectivity. There’s even a customizable main menu for personalization. Upgrades include a built-in navigation system, and a dealer-installed 4G LTE mobile hotspot. There’s even an available Active Noise Cancellation feature as Nissan improved the window, body, and door sealing so that everyone can enjoy a quieter cabin.
Safety Features and Warranty
When it comes to safety equipment, Nissan didn’t skimp and offers its Nissan Safety Shield 360 as a standard regardless of trim. The safety suite includes features such as Rear Cross Traffic Alert, High-Beam Assist, Automatic Rear Braking, Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, and Blind-Spot Monitoring. Although the IIHS hasn’t issued a safety rating for the 2020 Nissan Sentra, the outgoing generation had exceptional ratings and experts are positive that the addition of the Nissan Safety Shield 360 is sure to add to the vehicle’s safety rating as well.
All Nissan vehicles are covered by a 3-year or 36,000-mile basic warranty, a 5-year / 60,000-mile powertrain warranty, respectively whichever comes first. The 2020 Nissan Sentra has a starting MSRP of $19,090 (plus destination fee).
