2007 Nissan Sentra

Small cars used to be just that; small and simple. But today’s newest compacts offer buyers space and features that rival mid-size family sedans. That’s the recipe for the all-new 2007 Nissan Sentra. With the new Sentra, buying small, may no longer mean coming up short on anything! 

With the addition of the Versa subcompact into the bottom of Nissan’s car lineup, the long-standing Sentra is no longer low man on the brand’s U.S. totem pole.  Having room to move up in both size and features, the all-new 6th generation 2007 Sentra is determined to become the do-everything four-door for the active, urban demographic.

Planted with a more assertive stance, the Sentra’s design has become beefier and more orb-like. Design cues from the larger Altima and Maxima, can be clearly seen in the front fascia, headlights and grille.

But its angular lines and thickish rear panels appear more Renault-inspired, and give the Sentra a newfound, if not totally pleasing athletic flair.  Especially when sitting atop 16 inch alloy wheels, optional on the S level trim, but standard on the upgraded SL. Larger in all directions, the Sentra’s wheelbase is up by a substantial 5.9 inches to 105.7 inches. We use to call that mid-size.

Our first experience in the new Sentra was at the sprawling bayside of San Francisco and the challenging roads around it.  The venue highlighted how Nissan has rejuvenated the front-wheel drive Sentra’s power-center with a larger 2.0 liter DOHC inline 4. Output stands at 140 horsepower and 147 pound-feet of torque. Combined, that’s 12.5% more power than the previous 1.8-liter.

The drive train includes either a standard 6-Speed manual transmission or an available Xtronic continuously variable automatic.  It’s smooth and responsive, but the powertrain generates a fair bit of noise under acceleration and at highway speeds.

Government Fuel Economy ratings are 29 City/36 Highway with the CVT. So even with more power, the new Sentra goes further on a gallon of regular than last year.

Built on Nissan’s new “C” platform, the Sentra is supported by an independent strut front suspension and semi-independent torsion beam rear suspension. This configuration delivers a comfortable and stable, if not inspiring, driving experience. The new variable assist Electric Power Steering System reacts well if with little feedback. Braking is enforced by standard ABS and Electronic Brake Force Distribution on the S and SL models.  Both safeguards are optional on the base Sentra.

But the true testament to Sentra’s makeover is found within its ballooned shell.  Nissan labored to create an interior space that achieves both versatility and functionality but without sacrificing trendy styling. 

The instrument panel is nicely trimmed with bright accents, clear round gauges, and a compact center stack with large read outs,  centralized controls, and gear shift jutting out just below climate and stereo. Standard safety is across the board with a hailstorm of airbags including front side impact and side curtain airbags, plus tire pressure monitoring.

All three trim levels are well equipped with power windows and locks, air conditioning, tilt wheel, and a useful center console. We also got seat time in the top drawer SL with leather upholstery, a 340-Watt Rockford Fosgate Stereo, Bluetooth capability, Intelligent Key, and an innovative headliner CD holder for clutter-free access to your favorite discs.  A definite crowd pleaser for the young and hip.

Along with room for three, the spacious rear seat delivers convenient storage and a double folding 60/40 split seatback feature. Trunk room has also swelled to 13.1 cubic feet.  A clever trunk divider system creates a unique hidden storage compartment to keep valuable cargo separate.

Though we didn’t have specific pricing when we went to tape, MSRP for a nicely-equipped base Sentra is expected to be about $15,000.  A compact level sticker for an almost mid-size offering.

Since 1982, the Nissan Sentra has been quietly evolving and growing. Each generation seems to define its purpose with more detail. Now aimed squarely at satisfying the youthful Echo-boom culture, the all-new 2007 Sentra has undergone its most pointed changes yet.  And possibly the ones most poised, for big success.