2016 Nissan Sentra First Look Review

Nissan has been on a mission to bring more cohesion to its lineup. Starting with the Nissan Murano crossover, the automaker introduced a new design language that has since made its way onto the new Maxima and Altima. Now the 2016 Nissan Sentra gets updated styling and technology in four models, the base S, the SV, the SR, and the top-of-the line SL, to share more with its upscale siblings.

Past Sentra models held less of a striking design compared to other models in the Nissan lineup, but now, that has changed. The new Nissan Sentra features an updated front fascia, grille, fenders, hood, and Nissan’s signature boomerang-shaped headlights. The low-beam headlights now feature LEDs, and the SR and SL models get LED accents. The new Sentra also gets a revised rear fascia with boomerang taillights. The SR and SL models come with two new 17-inch wheel designs, and the SV offers a new 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheel design.

New for 2016, Nissan has added a Blue Pearl exterior color. The SR model features more sporty options with unique 17-inch forked, five-spoke aluminum alloy wheels, foglights, side sill extensions, a rear spoiler with an integrated LED brake light, and a chrome exhaust tip finisher. The entire Sentra lineup features chrome door handles and window accents along with available heated outside mirrors with integrated turn signals.

Inside, consumers will find an updated design, starting with the steering wheel that draws inspiration from the Nissan 370Z. The automaker now offers a six-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar support on the base SV and SR models, and it comes standard on the SL. The Sentra also features a new center stack design and an updated center console and shift knob, and the seats are wrapped in more upscale fabric.

The infotainment system utilizes a TFT-type LCD flat panel display with better resolution. All models will also receive a 5-inch Advanced Drive-Assist display located between the tachometer and speedometer. New features for the 2016 model year include a soft-touch instrument panel and door armrest. Leather-appointed seats are available, as is a Bose premium audio system, keyless entry and push-button start, a rearview monitor, and dual-zone climate control.

The 2016 Nissan Sentra will be powered exclusively by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder with a six-speed manual transmission on the S model; other models also have the option of an Xtronic transmission with a sub-planetary gear. The updated engine and the CVT system give the Sentra better fuel efficiency. The suspension has also been tuned to provide better handling with a 10 percent increase in spring and damper rates.

For 2016, the Sentra features more safety technology, including NissanConnect Services. This system offers emergency preparedness, remote access, customizable alerts, and more through a SiruisXM subscription. Siri Eyes Free Voice Recognition is also new for the model year and comes standard on the SV, SR, and SL models. For the first time, the Nissan Sentra will now offer available forward emergency braking, intelligent cruise control, blind-spot monitor, and rear cross traffic alert.

The 2016 Nissan Sentra will make its official debut at the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show before hitting dealers next year with a starting price of $17,605, including destination charges.

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