Nissan Updated the Sentra's Appearance for 2026 but Retained the 2016 Performance | Carscoops
Nissan has given its longstanding Sentra a significant visual makeover for 2026.
The refresh introduces a face reminiscent of the Ariya and features a widescreen infotainment display.
At launch, the only available drivetrain is a carryover 149 horsepower 2.0-liter engine paired with a CVT.
Many once-prominent nameplates have disappeared over the past 40 years, yet the Nissan Sentra continues to thrive. For 2026, it returns with refreshed exterior styling and a completely updated interior, indicating that this compact sedan still has vitality. It may soon become the last remaining car in Nissan’s U.S. lineup, as the Versa is set to be discontinued at the end of the year and the future of the Altima remains uncertain.
Additionally, Nissan has outpaced Tesla in offering a $25,000 EV that Elon Musk claimed was improbable.
We recently got a preview of the 2026 model through images of its Chinese counterpart, the Sylphy, which we shared a few weeks ago. Now, Nissan has revealed details about the U.S. version of the Sentra, including images of the significantly enhanced dashboard and infotainment system.
Edgier Appearance While Retaining Familiar Shape
In comparison to the previous year's Sentra, the new model sports a more technology-oriented front end that is reminiscent of the Ariya electric SUV, particularly appealing in the sporty SR trim's blackout edition. Since the Ariya is being phased out of the U.S. market this season, it seems less necessary.
Other notable visual modifications include a redesigned C-pillar (the waistline no longer rises at the rear of the back door) and the addition of a horizontal light bar across the rear. The SR trim also features a trunklid spoiler, black sills, 18-inch wheels, and a two-tone roof.
Screens at the Forefront
Inside, the updates are unmistakable. The traditional gauge cluster and rectangular tablet touchscreen from the MY25 Sentra have been replaced with a seamless glass slab connecting the gauge display and a new 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment system on most trims. Base models lack the 12.3-inch driver display (though all include Android Auto and Apple CarPlay), while the SR trim adds red accents and a drive mode selector.
Familiar Mechanical Components
Despite the fresh look, the Sentra is not a completely new vehicle. Beneath the sleek exterior, it remains based on the same platform and retains the outdated mechanical components of its predecessor. The only drivetrain option continues to be the naturally aspirated 2.0-liter inline four engine producing 149 hp (151 PS) and 146 lb-ft (198 Nm), driving the front wheels via an Xtronic CVT. Expecting under 9 seconds for a 0-60 mph (97 km/h) time might be ambitious.
There are no indications of the Rogue's 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS) turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine or any of Nissan’s e-Power technology currently, although sources suggest the latter is in development. Pricing is still being finalized, but the new base S trim will likely start just above the $22,785 that Nissan charges for the 2025 model, and the range will include an additional SL grade alongside the S, SV, and SR trims.
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