Nissan unveils the all-new 2026 Nissan Sentra in the U.S.
28-09-2025 16:18 - MARKET NEWS
The all-new 2026 Nissan Sentra makes the everyday more exciting with a blend of elevated styling and effortless connectivity – building on over four decades of proven value and recently ranked as the top Compact Car in the J.D. Power 2025 U.S. Initial Quality Study (IQS). The all-new Sentra features standard Safety Shield 360 safety technologies, a spirited driving experience and a sporty SR grade.
Reaching showrooms across the U.S. later this year, the 2026 Nissan Sentra is available in S, SV, SR and SL grades.
Youthful, energized exterior design
Three words directed designers crafting the 2026 Nissan Sentra: daring, vitalizing, resonating. The new sedan appears more dynamic and more sophisticated, with sharp surfaces and a well-balanced character line. At the front the Sentra reveals an evolved V-motion grille, with lines extending into its lighting signature.
New slim projector LED headlights offer significantly enhanced light output, yet with a more subtle design that blends into the vehicle’s fascia. The available LED signature appears black when turned off, adding further subtlety. When Sentra is unlocked, a welcome pattern illuminates, incorporating the turn signals, high and low beams, and available signature lighting and giving the vehicle a high-tech, elevated feeling – before the driver even opens the door.
Sentra’s energetic surfacing and streamlined bodysides lend it a more premium appearance. The sleek cabin contrasts with sharp shoulder surfaces and strong fenders, creating a dynamic and eye-catching look. The well-balanced character line visually lowers the car, enhancing its sense of stability and presence.
Nearly every part of the vehicle’s exterior plays a role: the shaping of the trunk and rear fenders helps control air flow to reduce the rear wake behind the vehicle, the wheel opening areas have been reduced and the side-view mirrors are specifically shaped to reduce drag. Underneath, flat floor covers and tire deflectors further enhance aerodynamic efficiency.
The three wheel options for Sentra – 16, 17 or 18 inches in diameter – continue the striking design theme, with provocative, intersecting lines that add motion to the wheels, even when Sentra is standing still.
Sentra’s eye-catching color palette includes Imperial Bronze, Gun Metallic, Atlantic Gray Metallic, Super Black, Scarlett Ember, Aspen White and Fresh Powder. In addition, four colors are available with a Super Black roof: Aspen White, Bluestone Pearl, Atlantic Gray, and Energetic Ember.
Harmoniously connected cabin
Inside the all-new Sentra, designers worked to create a dynamic, harmonious space that feels open and premium. Available dual 12.3-inch displays and a touch-sensitive climate control panel result in a clean and modern dashboard, and soft door touchpoints elevate the cabin’s sense of comfort. Compared to the outgoing Sentra, the new, class-leading 12.3-inch infotainment display3 is two times brighter for easier reading in varied lighting conditions.
Alongside the modern dual-screen layout, Sentra retains several core physical buttons, and the display functions can be operated via steering wheel-mounted switches or by touching the center display. Three rectangular elements in the dashboard, two of which house air vents, reference the three circular vents on the outgoing Sentra.
Highly equipped for outstanding value
The standard 12.3-inch center infotainment screen features Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay®, and there are three USB-C ports for charging phones or other devices. SV grades and higher add wireless functionality for CarPlay® and Android Auto™. On SL grade and SR Premium package, an eight-speaker Bose® premium audio system delivers crisp, powerful music throughout the cabin.
Sentra’s interior is thoughtfully appointed with useful and unexpectedly premium features, such as an available power tilt/slide sunroof, class-exclusive 64-color customizable ambient lighting4, a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, Sentra-first wireless phone charging and soft-touch TailorFit™ upholstery. It has best-in-class front legroom5, helping drivers stay more comfortable behind the wheel.
Sentra is also available with SiriusXM’s most advanced audio entertainment platform: SiriusXM with 360L. SiriusXM with 360L combines satellite and streaming delivery to offer more channels, Artist stations and a more personalized listening experience, thousands of hours of on-demand content and more.
Simply functional for life
Nissan engineers paid close attention to the usability of the trunk. With one of the lowest trunk liftover heights in the class and an optimized opening shape, it’s easier to get large items, like golf bags or strollers, in and out. Sentra’s trunk is intended to handily fit three suitcases and two duffel bags, making weekend road trips or airport runs a breeze.
The new Sentra makes it easy to hop in and out when running errands throughout the day. Available Nissan Intelligent Key® with approach unlock/walkaway locking (standard, SR and SL; optional, SV) automatically detects the key fob, unlocking the doors without the driver ever having to reach in their pocket or purse. After reaching your destination, Sentra automatically locks as they walk away.
SR goes bolder
Well known by owners for its racier appearance, Sentra’s SR grade returns with an even sharper interpretation of the new sedan’s core design themes. A unique front fascia with blacked-out center section and a dark chrome V-motion element combine an SR-specific rear bumper, black side sills, a rear spoiler, 18-inch alloy wheels and a two-tone roof treatment. The most differentiated SR grade in Sentra’s history, its interior is enhanced with elements including ambient lighting and sport cloth with accent stitching.
Sentra SV, SR and SL feature a drive mode selector with a Sport mode option that delivers a more invigorating driving experience. It rewards drivers with sportier steering response, more performance-oriented transmission shifting and sharper throttle responses.
SL rejoins the family
The all-new Sentra reintroduces an SL grade featuring a heated steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, ambient lighting, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and a power tilt/slide sunroof. Visually, it stands apart with stylish 17-inch alloy wheels and asymmetrical-quilted TailorFit™ synthetic leather-appointed seats.
Extra peace of mind
The 2026 Nissan Sentra packs an impressive level of standard safety and driver-assistance technology to provide confidence and reassurance. The new Sentra adds Blind Spot Intervention2, which can actively help avoid a collision if the driver attempts to change lanes when a car is in the vehicle’s blind spot.
Intelligent Cruise Control2 is standard on all Sentra grades. The model’s complement of driver-assistance technology expands with the introduction of available ProPILOT Assist, which is ideally suited to those with commutes through stop-and-go highway traffic. The system eases the driver’s workload on long trips by helping control acceleration, braking and steering if necessary. It’s offered on SL grade or as part of the SR Premium package.
SL grade and the SR Premium package also feature class-exclusive Intelligent Around View® Monitor with Moving Object Detection6, helping ease the anxiety of parking.
Sentra’s complement of standard safety and driver assistance technologies includes Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, class-exclusive Intelligent Forward Collision Warning7, Lane Departure Prevention, High Beam Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition8 and more. With 10 standard airbags, Sentra offers the confidence that it can help keep everyone on board protected.
Dependable, proven powertrain
The all-new 2026 Nissan Sentra builds on a proven and reliable powertrain to deliver a dynamic, yet efficient driving experience. Under the hood is a standard 2.0-liter inline-four engine rated for 149 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque. Sentra has standard idle stop/start to help save gas in city driving.
The engine is paired with a proven Xtronic CVT that delivered confident performance in Sentra for several years. The CVT has been retuned for the 2026 model year to deliver a more natural, smooth acceleration feel. A new Sport drive mode (except S grade) was tuned in the U.S. for sharper throttle responses and more thrilling shifting patterns that help give the car a sporty feel.
Precision engineering throughout the vehicle makes Sentra more enjoyable to drive, while also being even quieter and more comfortable than the outgoing model. Sentra features an independent strut front and multi-link rear suspension, and standard rear disc brakes for confident braking performance. Thanks to significant reinforcement of the unibody, the all-new Sentra has 6% greater rigidity than its predecessor. The steering wheel features an enlarged dynamic damper that effectively reduces road vibrations, ensuring a more composed driving experience. New shock absorber valving helps better mute impact harshness from bumps. Finally, engineers reduced the size of body openings throughout the vehicle to help reduce sound levels. EPA fuel economy estimates will be announced at a later date.
1 AutoPacific Segmentation. 2026 Nissan Sentra vs. latest in-market competitors in the Mainstream Compact Class (excluding electric vehicles). Base models compared. Based on manufacturers' websites.
2 Driver-assist and safety features have limitations which affect how they function in certain situations. The driver must never rely exclusively on any vehicle feature to warn about, prevent, or lessen the severity of a collision. It is the driver’s responsibility to always be in control, monitor the surroundings, and safely operate the vehicle. Read your vehicle’s Owner’s Manual for further information.
3 AutoPacific Segmentation. 2026 Nissan Sentra vs. latest in-market competitors in the Mainstream Compact Class (excluding electric vehicles). Base models compared. Based on manufacturers' websites.
4 Available feature. AutoPacific Segmentation. 2026 Nissan Sentra vs. latest in-market competitors in the Mainstream Compact Class (excluding electric vehicles). Base models compared. Based on manufacturers' websites.
5 AutoPacific Segmentation. 2026 Nissan Sentra vs. latest in-market competitors in the Mainstream Compact Class (excluding electric vehicles). Base models compared. Based on manufacturers' websites.
6 Available feature. AutoPacific Segmentation. 2026 Nissan Sentra SR vs. latest in-market competitors in the Mainstream Compact Class (excluding electric vehicles). Based on manufacturers' websites. Intelligent Around View Monitor cannot eliminate blind spots and may not detect every object. Driver should always turn and check surroundings before driving. I-AVM includes Moving Object Detection. See Owner’s Manual for safety information.
7 AutoPacific Segmentation. 2026 Nissan Sentra vs. latest in-market competitors in the Mainstream Compact Class (excluding electric vehicles). Based on manufacturers' websites. Claim based on ability to see up to 2 vehicles ahead. Intelligent Forward Collision Warning cannot prevent collisions. See Owner’s Manual for safety information.
8 Traffic Sign Recognition may not detect and read all traffic signs in all conditions. Driver should monitor all traffic signs and obey all traffic laws. See Owner’s Manual for details.
Reaching showrooms across the U.S. later this year, the 2026 Nissan Sentra is available in S, SV, SR and SL grades.
Youthful, energized exterior design
Three words directed designers crafting the 2026 Nissan Sentra: daring, vitalizing, resonating. The new sedan appears more dynamic and more sophisticated, with sharp surfaces and a well-balanced character line. At the front the Sentra reveals an evolved V-motion grille, with lines extending into its lighting signature.
New slim projector LED headlights offer significantly enhanced light output, yet with a more subtle design that blends into the vehicle’s fascia. The available LED signature appears black when turned off, adding further subtlety. When Sentra is unlocked, a welcome pattern illuminates, incorporating the turn signals, high and low beams, and available signature lighting and giving the vehicle a high-tech, elevated feeling – before the driver even opens the door.
Sentra’s energetic surfacing and streamlined bodysides lend it a more premium appearance. The sleek cabin contrasts with sharp shoulder surfaces and strong fenders, creating a dynamic and eye-catching look. The well-balanced character line visually lowers the car, enhancing its sense of stability and presence.
Nearly every part of the vehicle’s exterior plays a role: the shaping of the trunk and rear fenders helps control air flow to reduce the rear wake behind the vehicle, the wheel opening areas have been reduced and the side-view mirrors are specifically shaped to reduce drag. Underneath, flat floor covers and tire deflectors further enhance aerodynamic efficiency.
The three wheel options for Sentra – 16, 17 or 18 inches in diameter – continue the striking design theme, with provocative, intersecting lines that add motion to the wheels, even when Sentra is standing still.
Sentra’s eye-catching color palette includes Imperial Bronze, Gun Metallic, Atlantic Gray Metallic, Super Black, Scarlett Ember, Aspen White and Fresh Powder. In addition, four colors are available with a Super Black roof: Aspen White, Bluestone Pearl, Atlantic Gray, and Energetic Ember.
Harmoniously connected cabin
Inside the all-new Sentra, designers worked to create a dynamic, harmonious space that feels open and premium. Available dual 12.3-inch displays and a touch-sensitive climate control panel result in a clean and modern dashboard, and soft door touchpoints elevate the cabin’s sense of comfort. Compared to the outgoing Sentra, the new, class-leading 12.3-inch infotainment display3 is two times brighter for easier reading in varied lighting conditions.
Alongside the modern dual-screen layout, Sentra retains several core physical buttons, and the display functions can be operated via steering wheel-mounted switches or by touching the center display. Three rectangular elements in the dashboard, two of which house air vents, reference the three circular vents on the outgoing Sentra.
Highly equipped for outstanding value
The standard 12.3-inch center infotainment screen features Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay®, and there are three USB-C ports for charging phones or other devices. SV grades and higher add wireless functionality for CarPlay® and Android Auto™. On SL grade and SR Premium package, an eight-speaker Bose® premium audio system delivers crisp, powerful music throughout the cabin.
Sentra’s interior is thoughtfully appointed with useful and unexpectedly premium features, such as an available power tilt/slide sunroof, class-exclusive 64-color customizable ambient lighting4, a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, Sentra-first wireless phone charging and soft-touch TailorFit™ upholstery. It has best-in-class front legroom5, helping drivers stay more comfortable behind the wheel.
Sentra is also available with SiriusXM’s most advanced audio entertainment platform: SiriusXM with 360L. SiriusXM with 360L combines satellite and streaming delivery to offer more channels, Artist stations and a more personalized listening experience, thousands of hours of on-demand content and more.
Simply functional for life
Nissan engineers paid close attention to the usability of the trunk. With one of the lowest trunk liftover heights in the class and an optimized opening shape, it’s easier to get large items, like golf bags or strollers, in and out. Sentra’s trunk is intended to handily fit three suitcases and two duffel bags, making weekend road trips or airport runs a breeze.
The new Sentra makes it easy to hop in and out when running errands throughout the day. Available Nissan Intelligent Key® with approach unlock/walkaway locking (standard, SR and SL; optional, SV) automatically detects the key fob, unlocking the doors without the driver ever having to reach in their pocket or purse. After reaching your destination, Sentra automatically locks as they walk away.
SR goes bolder
Well known by owners for its racier appearance, Sentra’s SR grade returns with an even sharper interpretation of the new sedan’s core design themes. A unique front fascia with blacked-out center section and a dark chrome V-motion element combine an SR-specific rear bumper, black side sills, a rear spoiler, 18-inch alloy wheels and a two-tone roof treatment. The most differentiated SR grade in Sentra’s history, its interior is enhanced with elements including ambient lighting and sport cloth with accent stitching.
Sentra SV, SR and SL feature a drive mode selector with a Sport mode option that delivers a more invigorating driving experience. It rewards drivers with sportier steering response, more performance-oriented transmission shifting and sharper throttle responses.
SL rejoins the family
The all-new Sentra reintroduces an SL grade featuring a heated steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, ambient lighting, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and a power tilt/slide sunroof. Visually, it stands apart with stylish 17-inch alloy wheels and asymmetrical-quilted TailorFit™ synthetic leather-appointed seats.
Extra peace of mind
The 2026 Nissan Sentra packs an impressive level of standard safety and driver-assistance technology to provide confidence and reassurance. The new Sentra adds Blind Spot Intervention2, which can actively help avoid a collision if the driver attempts to change lanes when a car is in the vehicle’s blind spot.
Intelligent Cruise Control2 is standard on all Sentra grades. The model’s complement of driver-assistance technology expands with the introduction of available ProPILOT Assist, which is ideally suited to those with commutes through stop-and-go highway traffic. The system eases the driver’s workload on long trips by helping control acceleration, braking and steering if necessary. It’s offered on SL grade or as part of the SR Premium package.
SL grade and the SR Premium package also feature class-exclusive Intelligent Around View® Monitor with Moving Object Detection6, helping ease the anxiety of parking.
Sentra’s complement of standard safety and driver assistance technologies includes Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, class-exclusive Intelligent Forward Collision Warning7, Lane Departure Prevention, High Beam Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition8 and more. With 10 standard airbags, Sentra offers the confidence that it can help keep everyone on board protected.
Dependable, proven powertrain
The all-new 2026 Nissan Sentra builds on a proven and reliable powertrain to deliver a dynamic, yet efficient driving experience. Under the hood is a standard 2.0-liter inline-four engine rated for 149 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque. Sentra has standard idle stop/start to help save gas in city driving.
The engine is paired with a proven Xtronic CVT that delivered confident performance in Sentra for several years. The CVT has been retuned for the 2026 model year to deliver a more natural, smooth acceleration feel. A new Sport drive mode (except S grade) was tuned in the U.S. for sharper throttle responses and more thrilling shifting patterns that help give the car a sporty feel.
Precision engineering throughout the vehicle makes Sentra more enjoyable to drive, while also being even quieter and more comfortable than the outgoing model. Sentra features an independent strut front and multi-link rear suspension, and standard rear disc brakes for confident braking performance. Thanks to significant reinforcement of the unibody, the all-new Sentra has 6% greater rigidity than its predecessor. The steering wheel features an enlarged dynamic damper that effectively reduces road vibrations, ensuring a more composed driving experience. New shock absorber valving helps better mute impact harshness from bumps. Finally, engineers reduced the size of body openings throughout the vehicle to help reduce sound levels. EPA fuel economy estimates will be announced at a later date.
1 AutoPacific Segmentation. 2026 Nissan Sentra vs. latest in-market competitors in the Mainstream Compact Class (excluding electric vehicles). Base models compared. Based on manufacturers' websites.
2 Driver-assist and safety features have limitations which affect how they function in certain situations. The driver must never rely exclusively on any vehicle feature to warn about, prevent, or lessen the severity of a collision. It is the driver’s responsibility to always be in control, monitor the surroundings, and safely operate the vehicle. Read your vehicle’s Owner’s Manual for further information.
3 AutoPacific Segmentation. 2026 Nissan Sentra vs. latest in-market competitors in the Mainstream Compact Class (excluding electric vehicles). Base models compared. Based on manufacturers' websites.
4 Available feature. AutoPacific Segmentation. 2026 Nissan Sentra vs. latest in-market competitors in the Mainstream Compact Class (excluding electric vehicles). Base models compared. Based on manufacturers' websites.
5 AutoPacific Segmentation. 2026 Nissan Sentra vs. latest in-market competitors in the Mainstream Compact Class (excluding electric vehicles). Base models compared. Based on manufacturers' websites.
6 Available feature. AutoPacific Segmentation. 2026 Nissan Sentra SR vs. latest in-market competitors in the Mainstream Compact Class (excluding electric vehicles). Based on manufacturers' websites. Intelligent Around View Monitor cannot eliminate blind spots and may not detect every object. Driver should always turn and check surroundings before driving. I-AVM includes Moving Object Detection. See Owner’s Manual for safety information.
7 AutoPacific Segmentation. 2026 Nissan Sentra vs. latest in-market competitors in the Mainstream Compact Class (excluding electric vehicles). Based on manufacturers' websites. Claim based on ability to see up to 2 vehicles ahead. Intelligent Forward Collision Warning cannot prevent collisions. See Owner’s Manual for safety information.
8 Traffic Sign Recognition may not detect and read all traffic signs in all conditions. Driver should monitor all traffic signs and obey all traffic laws. See Owner’s Manual for details.
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