The verdict
A struggling compact sedan, strong on ownership and held back by performance.
The 2017 Sentra is cheap to buy and cheap to run, with an unusually roomy back seat for a compact. It is also slow, has dated tech, and keeps most of its safety features for the upper trims. The 124-hp 1.8L needs about 9.4 seconds to reach 60 mph, there is no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, and both headlight types were rated Poor by IIHS. The biggest thing to check is the Xtronic CVT: 2013–2017 are the worst years for failures, so get service records or budget for a transmission before you buy one used.
Jump to scoresStrengths
- Very low purchase price
- Adult-friendly back seat
- Low five-year cost to own
What holds it back
- Slow, noisy base engine
- Dated infotainment with no phone projection
- Safety tech mostly missing on volume trims
Top alternatives
Cars shoppers cross-shop with the Nissan Sentra
2.40C+
Toyota CorollaCompact SedanBetter at: Resale valueFor a few hundred dollars more it delivers better fuel economy, dramatically stronger reliability and resale, and a ~50 MPG hybrid option the Sentra simply doesn't offer.
Compare
2.44C+
Honda CivicCompact SedanBetter at: Rear-seat spaceCosts more but gives you three extra inches of rear legroom, a bigger trunk, a current IIHS Top Safety Pick and a car that's actually enjoyable to drive.
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2.13C
Hyundai ElantraCompact SedanBetter at: Warranty coverageMatches the Sentra on price while adding a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, free scheduled maintenance and a hybrid variant — the better long-term ownership math.
CompareHow it's evolved
10 scored model years · 2017–2026
Subject scores by year
Hover or tap a score to see what moved it versus the year before. A corner mark flags a big swing.
| Year | Performance | Efficiency | Safety | Space | Cost | Reliability | Tech | Use-case | Driving | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 20 | 60 | 69 | 62 | 65 | 64 | 66 | 51 | 62 | 66 |
| 2025 | 20 | 60 | 57 | 61 | 67 | 69 | 45 | 47 | 54 | 63 |
| 2024 | 20 | 60 | 63 | 63 | 61 | 66 | 44 | 48 | 57 | 64 |
| 2023 | 20 | 56 | 63 | 63 | 68 | 67 | 41 | 47 | 57 | 64 |
| 2022 | 20 | 56 | 66 | 63 | 68 | 66 | 40 | 47 | 57 | 61 |
| 2021 | 20 | 56 | 68 | 63 | 73 | 65 | 41 | 47 | 57 | 66 |
| 2020 | 20 | 56 | 67 | 63 | 71 | 63 | 39 | 47 | 57 | 69 |
| 2019 | 15 | 54 | 44 | 61 | 68 | 61 | 32 | 44 | 52 | 54 |
| 2018 | 15 | 54 | 45 | 62 | 70 | 59 | 26 | 44 | 49 | 57 |
| 2017 | 15 | 54 | 40 | 64 | 69 | 58 | 26 | 44 | 56 | 57 |
Compare two years
Best fit & conditions
Higher scores mean a better fit for that use case. Learn more about use-case fit →
Subject profile
Trims & configurations
3 trimsScores above reflect the volume trim. Per-trim specs and scores are rolling out — the full lineup:
Academic Probation · NHTSA safety recalls
Mar 3, 2021Exterior lighting: brake lights: switchThe brake light switch may become contaminated, preventing the circuit from closing and the brake lights from illuminating.
Defect
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Nissan Sentra vehicles. The brake light switch may become contaminated, preventing the circuit from closing and the brake lights from illuminating.
Risk
The brake lights may not illuminate, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the brake light switch and install a protective grommet, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 1, 2022. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800867-7769. Nissan's number for this recall is PM971.
NHTSA campaign 21V135000 ↗Manufacturer no. PM971807,376 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jul 1, 2022Filed by Nissan North America, Inc.Filed as SENTRAAug 21, 2018Electrical system: ignitionIn these models, over time, the weight on the key ring and road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position to the accessory position, turning off the engine.
Defect
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2017 Nissan NV200, Sentra, NV3500 Van, NV3500 Bus, NV200 Taxi, NV1500, NV2500 Van, Chevrolet City Express, 2017-2018 Frontier, Versa Note, and Versa Sedan vehicles that have a mechanical (physical) key ignition system. In these models, over time, the weight on the key ring and road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position to the accessory position, turning off the engine.
Risk
If the vehicle stalls, it can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the production information on the ignition switch, and replace it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 1, 2018. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669.
NHTSA campaign 18V551000 ↗153,047 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Oct 1, 2018Filed by Nissan North America, Inc.Filed as SENTRAApr 13, 2017Air bagsDue to a manufacturing error within the air bag inflators, the passenger frontal air bag may not properly deploy in the event of a crash.
Defect
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2015-2017 LEAF and 2014, 2016 and 2017 Sentra vehicles. Due to a manufacturing error within the air bag inflators, the passenger frontal air bag may not properly deploy in the event of a crash.
Risk
In the event of a crash, if the front passenger air bag doesn't deploy properly, it can increase the risk of injury to passengers.
Remedy
Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began June 7, 2017. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.
NHTSA campaign 17V253000 ↗30,038 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jun 7, 2017Filed by Nissan North America, Inc.Filed as SENTRA
14 recalls on other model years of the Sentra (2018–2026)
Jun 26, 2026Power train: driveline: driveshaftThe front left-side driveshaft may not be fully seated in the continuously variable transmission (CVT) assembly, which can cause a transmission fluid leak and loss of drive power.
Defect
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2025 Nissan Sentra vehicles. The front left-side driveshaft may not be fully seated in the continuously variable transmission (CVT) assembly, which can cause a transmission fluid leak and loss of drive power.
Risk
An unexpected loss of drive power can increase the risk of a crash. In addition, a driveshaft that is not fully engaged can result in a vehicle rollaway if the parking brake is not applied, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the front left driveshaft, and if necessary, replace the driveshaft and CVT assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 12, 2026. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PMA68. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on June 30, 2026.
NHTSA campaign 26V410000 ↗Manufacturer no. PMA68946 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Aug 5, 2026Filed by Nissan North America, Inc.Filed as SENTRAMar 13, 2026SeatsThe hook bracket of the front seat frames may be insufficiently welded, which can cause the front seat frames to become loose. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 207, "Seating Systems" and 210, "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages."
Defect
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2026 Kicks and Sentra vehicles. The hook bracket of the front seat frames may be insufficiently welded, which can cause the front seat frames to become loose. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 207, "Seating Systems" and 210, "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages."
Risk
A loose seat may not restrain the occupant as intended, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the front seat assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 18, 2026. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 800-647-7261. Nissan's number for this recall is PMA64. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 13, 2026.
NHTSA campaign 26V145000 ↗Manufacturer no. PMA6415 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified May 11, 2026Filed by Nissan North America, Inc.Filed as SENTRAJan 20, 2026Latches/locks/linkages: doors: latchThe door strikers may have been improperly welded and break, allowing the door to open while moving. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 206, "Door Locks and Door Retention Components."
Defect
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2025 Altima, Sentra, 2025-2026 Frontier, and 2026 Kicks vehicles. The door strikers may have been improperly welded and break, allowing the door to open while moving. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 206, "Door Locks and Door Retention Components."
Risk
A door that opens unexpectedly while the vehicle is in motion increases the risk of injury or a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the door strikers, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 17, 2026. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 800-647-7261. Nissan's numbers for this recall are PD185 and PMA61. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning January 28, 2026.
NHTSA campaign 26V023000 ↗Manufacturer no. PD185, PMA6126,432 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Mar 13, 2026Filed by Nissan North America, Inc.Filed as SENTRANov 20, 2025Visibility: windshieldThe windshield glass may have visible air bubbles, which can obscure the driver's visibility. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 205, "Glazing Materials."
Defect
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2025 Sentra vehicles. The windshield glass may have visible air bubbles, which can obscure the driver's visibility. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 205, "Glazing Materials."
Risk
Reduced visibility while driving can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the windshield as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 21, 2026. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PMA58. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning November 21, 2025.
NHTSA campaign 25V807000 ↗Manufacturer no. PMA5841,797 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jan 14, 2026Filed by Nissan North America, Inc.Filed as SENTRAMar 11, 2025SeatsThe driver's seat frame may not be fully secured to the outer side of the seat track. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 207, "Seating Systems," and 210, "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages."
Defect
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2025 Sentra vehicles. The driver's seat frame may not be fully secured to the outer side of the seat track. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 207, "Seating Systems," and 210, "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages."
Risk
An unsecured driver's seat may not adequately restrain the driver during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the driver's side lower seat frame assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 1, 2025. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PMA45.
NHTSA campaign 25V153000 ↗Manufacturer no. PMA45199 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified May 1, 2025Filed by Nissan North America, Inc.Filed as SENTRAJul 1, 2024Visibility: windshieldThe windshield may have air bubbles on the front lower driver's side, which can obscure the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 205, "Glazing Materials."
Defect
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2024 Nissan Sentra vehicles. The windshield may have air bubbles on the front lower driver's side, which can obscure the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 205, "Glazing Materials."
Risk
An owner who cannot see their VIN clearly may not recognize their vehicle is involved in a safety recall, and may not have the recall remedy performed, which could increase the risk of injury, fire, or a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the windshield as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 29, 2024. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PMA38.
NHTSA campaign 24V498000 ↗Manufacturer no. PMA381,608 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Aug 29, 2024Filed by Nissan North America, Inc.Filed as SENTRAApr 29, 2024Power train: driveline: driveshaftThe front left-side driveshaft may not be fully seated in the continuously variable transmission (CVT) assembly, or may have a loose or missing retaining clip, which can cause a transmission fluid leak and loss of drive power.
Defect
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2024 Sentra vehicles. The front left-side driveshaft may not be fully seated in the continuously variable transmission (CVT) assembly, or may have a loose or missing retaining clip, which can cause a transmission fluid leak and loss of drive power.
Risk
An unexpected loss of drive power can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the front left driveshaft, and if necessary, replace the driveshaft and CVT assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 26, 2024. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PMA37.
NHTSA campaign 24V304000 ↗Manufacturer no. PMA379,645 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jun 26, 2024Filed by Nissan North America, Inc.Filed as SENTRAFeb 27, 2024Air bags: frontal: driver side: inflator moduleDue to a manufacturing issue, the driver's air bag inflator may absorb moisture, and cause the air bag to deploy improperly.
Defect
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2024 Titan, Frontier, Infiniti QX60, Pathfinder, 2023-2024 Sentra, Versa, Kicks, Infiniti QX50, and 2023 Rogue vehicles. Due to a manufacturing issue, the driver's air bag inflator may absorb moisture, and cause the air bag to deploy improperly.
Risk
An air bag that deploys improperly may not protect the driver as intended during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the front driver's air bag assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2024. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's numbers for this recall are PD103, PD104, and PMA34.
NHTSA campaign 24V154000 ↗Manufacturer no. PD103, PD104, PMA34351 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Apr 10, 2024Filed by Nissan North America, Inc.Filed as SENTRASep 8, 2023Back over prevention: sensing system: cameraDamage to the camera harness can cause distortion or loss of the rearview camera display image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Defect
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Altima and 2020-2021 Sentra vehicles. Damage to the camera harness can cause distortion or loss of the rearview camera display image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Risk
A rearview camera that does not properly display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the rearview camera and harness for damage and replace them as necessary. If no damage is found, the dealer will apply protective tape and reroute the rearview camera harness. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 19, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is R23C3.
NHTSA campaign 23V628000 ↗Manufacturer no. R23C3153,376 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Oct 19, 2023Filed by Nissan North America, Inc.Filed as SENTRAAug 15, 2023Steering: linkages: tie rod assemblyThe left and/or right tie rod may bend.
Defect
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Sentra vehicles. The left and/or right tie rod may bend.
Risk
A bent tie rod can break and cause a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Owners are advised to contact their dealer for transport assistance if they are experiencing an off-center steering wheel or vibration. As an interim repair, dealers will inspect and replace any bent or broken tie rods, free of charge. Once newly designed parts are available, dealers will replace both left and right tie rods, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed November 27, 2024. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is R23B3. This recall replaces and expands recall number 21V-461. Vehicles previously repaired under 21V-461 will need to have the new remedy completed.
NHTSA campaign 23V581000 ↗Manufacturer no. R23B3236,238 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Nov 27, 2024Filed by Nissan North America, Inc.Filed as SENTRAJun 12, 2023Structure: bodyThe driver's side cowl area may have a missing or improper seal, which can allow water to leak inside the vehicle and corrode electrical components.
Defect
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2022 Sentra vehicles. The driver's side cowl area may have a missing or improper seal, which can allow water to leak inside the vehicle and corrode electrical components.
Risk
Corrosion of the electrical components could result in failure of various electrical systems, such as loss of wiper motor function or exterior lighting, inoperative air bags, or the ability to shift into gear without applying the brake pedal. Any of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash. In addition, an electrical short-circuit may occur, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, reseal the driver's side cowl. If moisture or corrosion is found, the main harness and engine room harness will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed July 26, 2023. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 1-800-867-7669.
NHTSA campaign 23V421000 ↗Manufacturer no. PMA21230 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jul 31, 2023Filed by Nissan North America, Inc.Filed as SENTRAApr 13, 2022Exterior lighting: headlightsThe right-hand headlight aim may be misaligned. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamp, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Defect
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020 Sentra vehicles, equipped with LED headlights. The right-hand headlight aim may be misaligned. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamp, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Risk
An improperly aimed headlight may reduce the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the right-hand headlight, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 10, 2022. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is R20B4.
NHTSA campaign 22V244000 ↗Manufacturer no. R20B45,520 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jun 10, 2022Filed by Nissan North America, Inc.Filed as SENTRAJun 17, 2021Steering: linkages: tie rod assemblyThe left and/or right tie rod may be bent.
Defect
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Sentra vehicles. The left and/or right tie rod may be bent.
Risk
A bent tie rod can break, causing a loss of steering control and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the left and/or right tie rods as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 5, 2021. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PM985.
NHTSA campaign 21V461000 ↗Manufacturer no. PM985138,736 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Aug 5, 2021Filed by Nissan North America, Inc.Filed as SENTRASep 12, 2019Back over prevention: sensing system: cameraAdditionally included are 2019 Nissan GT-R and Taxi and Infiniti QX50, QX60, Q70, Q70L vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Defect
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Nissan Altima, Armada, Frontier, Kicks, Leaf, Maxima, Murano, NV, NV200, Pathfinder, Rogue, Rogue Sport, Sentra, Titan, Titan Diesel, Versa Note and Versa Sedan vehicles, as well as Infiniti Q50, Q60, QX30 and QX80 vehicles. Additionally included are 2019 Nissan GT-R and Taxi and Infiniti QX50, QX60, Q70, Q70L vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Risk
The lack of an image in the back-up camera display increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Nissan will notify owners in phases, having dealers update the back-up camera settings software, free of charge. The recall began November 11, 2019 and all affected VINs should be activated. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669 or INFINITI customer service at 1-800-662-6200.
NHTSA campaign 19V654000 ↗1,228,830 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Nov 11, 2019Filed by Nissan North America, Inc.Filed as SENTRA
Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation recall database, model years 2017–2026. Recalls are listed by model year as the manufacturer filed them; whether a specific car is affected depends on its VIN — check a VIN at nhtsa.gov ↗. NHTSA model names matched to this page: SENTRA.
Detailed scoring by subject
1Performance & PowertrainThe Sentra's lowest-graded category.0.00F
The volume SV uses the 124-hp 1.8L four, near the bottom of the compact class. The 188-hp turbo, new for 2017 on the SR Turbo and NISMO, sells in low volume.
125 lb-ft is at the very bottom of the sedan band.
Instrumented tests of the B17 1.8L CVT Sentra put it in the mid-9-second range, near the slow end of the class. The 1.8L CVT powertrain was unchanged from 2013 to 2019.
The 1.8L is coarse and strained when pushed and feels underpowered on highway merges and passes. It is adequate only for relaxed commuting.
The Xtronic CVT is smooth at light throttle but drones and lets revs flare under hard acceleration, which makes the weak engine feel weaker. A 6-speed manual is offered on the S, SR Turbo and NISMO for 2017.
Every trim is front-wheel drive; AWD is not offered.
Two gas engines (the 1.8L and the new 1.6L turbo), each with a CVT or a manual, give some choice. There is no hybrid or electrified option.
2Efficiency & RangeGrades below the middle of the scale.1.61D
Competitive but not class-leading economy for a gas compact sedan.
The volume CVT trims are rated 29 MPG city.
A solid highway figure for a non-hybrid compact.
The small tank limits range despite reasonable economy.
A mid-pack annual fuel cost on regular gas.
The volume 1.8L runs on regular unleaded; only the low-volume SR Turbo/NISMO turbo is listed on premium.
3SafetyOne of the Sentra's weakest categories.0.62F
The 2017 B17 Sentra carries a 4-star NHTSA overall rating; 4-star frontal (driver and passenger) and 4-star rollover (11.8% risk) keep it off 5 stars despite 5-star side results.
Earned a 2017 IIHS Top Safety Pick with all-Good crashworthiness, but the award applies only to cars with the optional front crash prevention package, the passenger-side small overlap was never tested, and it missed TSP+ on Poor headlights.
Nothing beyond a rearview camera is standard on the volume S/SV: Forward Emergency Braking and Intelligent Cruise Control sit in a Technology Package on upper grades, BSW/RCTA are SL-standard or packaged, and no lane-departure tech exists. Standard AEB on CVT models only arrived for 2018.
When fitted, the radar-based FEB earned an IIHS Superior vehicle-to-vehicle rating, but it has no pedestrian detection and is optional on only upper trims, so most 2017 Sentras have no AEB at all.
Blind Spot Warning and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are alert-only, standard only on the top SL and packaged on the SR Turbo; the volume S/SV largely go without.
No lane departure warning, lane keep assist or lane centering on any 2017 Sentra trim; lane tech arrived only with the 2020 B18 redesign.
Radar Intelligent Cruise Control is limited to the SR/SL technology package, is not full-speed-range and has no steering assist; the volume trims have conventional cruise only.
No hands-free or hands-on lane-centering system was offered on the 2017 Sentra.
IIHS rated both 2017 headlight variants Poor — the halogen reflectors on S/SV and the LED projector low beams on SR and above — with no high-beam assist or curve adaptation offered.
Conventional upright compact-sedan greenhouse with typical rear-quarter blind zones; a rearview camera is standard and the SL could add Around View Monitor, but most volume cars have the basic camera only.
IIHS rated 2017 LATCH ease of use only Marginal, with just two full-LATCH positions (center tether only), though the B17's generous rear legroom eases rear-facing seat fitment.
4Space & ComfortOne of the Sentra's strongest categories.2.30C+
Five-seat compact sedan on every 2017 grade (S, SV, SR, SL, SR Turbo, NISMO).
Generous front headroom for a compact sedan; moonroof-equipped SR/SL lose some.
Competitive front legroom for the class.
Average rear headroom for a compact sedan.
The B17's standout: rear legroom near midsize-sedan territory and among the best in the 2017 compact class.
Trunk is roomy for a compact sedan; 60/40 split-fold rear seatback on SV and up.
Ordinary console, door and cupholder storage; nothing clever, but adequate everyday stowage.
Soft, well-shaped front cushions praised for avoiding pressure points and a genuinely adult-friendly rear bench; manual-adjust seats and limited bolstering on volume trims.
Comfort-biased ride that soaks up most bumps, with some float and busyness over broken pavement; SR/NISMO ride firmer on 17-in/18-in wheels.
Road and wind noise reasonably suppressed at cruise, but the 1.8L drones under hard acceleration through the CVT.
Heated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate only on the SL (and SR premium packages); volume S/SV have manual single-zone A/C and no heated seats or rear vents.
5Cost of OwnershipThe Sentra's best-graded category.2.68C+
The 2017 Sentra S with the 6-speed manual started at $16,990 before destination, among the cheapest compact sedans of the year.
The SV Xtronic was the volume trim, with a large share going to fleet and rental buyers. At about $19,700 delivered it undercut volume Civic and Corolla trims.
The simple 1.8L MRA8DE is cheap to service, but the B17's JF015E Xtronic CVT has a documented record of failing out of warranty, which pushes expected repair costs above newer Sentras. Estimates vary widely.
The 2017 reached year 5 in 2022, at the peak of the used-car price spike, which lifted residuals across the board. Its heavy rental and fleet share and CVT reputation still kept it below the Civic and Corolla.
Nissan's New Vehicle Limited Warranty is 3 years or 36,000 miles, the segment floor.
Powertrain coverage is 5 years / 60,000 miles, versus Hyundai/Kia's 10 years / 100,000 miles.
There is no complimentary scheduled maintenance, only roadside assistance for the 3-yr/36k basic term. That is a step behind the Corolla's ToyotaCare.
$19,675 volume-trim price minus its estimated resale value after 5 years (53% retained, or about $10,428) leaves about $9,247 in depreciation. Add the projected $5,200 in 5-year maintenance and repairs, and owning this vehicle for 5 years costs about $14,447 in total.
6Reliability & QualityOne of the Sentra's strongest categories.1.91C-
2017 is a carry-over year for the facelifted B17 generation (2013–2019); the only changes were the new SR Turbo and NISMO trims. J.D. Power rates the 2017 car 3.5/5, above average, but owner surveys and complaint data single out 2013–2017 Sentras for CVT failures. That leaves it below the 2019 car and under the sedan peer p25 (66.5).
Around 2017 Nissan sat in the middle-to-lower half of dependability rankings. It trailed Toyota, Lexus, Honda, Mazda and the Korean brands, and its reputation was weighed down by widespread 2013–2017 CVT failures that led to extended warranties and class-action settlements.
MY2017 carries three NHTSA campaigns. Two are safety-relevant but narrow or fleet-wide: a passenger airbag inflator manufacturing defect affecting about 30k units, and a contaminated brake-light switch. The third is an ignition-system campaign spanning Nissan's lineup. None is a Sentra-specific powertrain or fire issue, but the CVT's long TSB and reflash history for judder and hesitation keeps this in the lower half of the typical band.
The volume trims pair the durable, low-stress 1.8L MRA8DE four-cylinder with the JATCO JF015E Xtronic CVT. That transmission family has a well-documented record of judder, overheating limp mode and out-of-warranty failures, and 2013–2017 are the most complained-about years. It is a known-problem transmission; the new 1.6T MR16DDT in the SR Turbo and NISMO is low-volume and not scored here.
The 2016 facelift brought a new steering wheel, center stack and seat fabrics, but the B17 cabin is still dominated by hard plastics. Reviewers called it plain next to the 2017 Civic, Mazda3 and Corolla.
In its fifth production year, with the facelift a year old, assembly is settled, and no widespread panel-gap or rattle pattern attaches to the 2017 model. Scattered owner complaints about trim noise and electrical glitches keep it mid-band.
Nissan runs one of the larger US franchised dealer networks, so service is easy to reach almost anywhere. Service-satisfaction scores are mid-pack, behind Toyota and Honda.
The B17 Sentra sold in huge volumes, so OEM and aftermarket parts are cheap, abundant and serviceable at any independent shop. The one costly exposure is a $3,000–4,000 CVT replacement once warranty coverage runs out, which is likelier on 2013–2017 cars.
7Technology & InfotainmentOne of the Sentra's weakest categories.0.00F
The volume SV carries only a 5-inch color display; the largest available screen is 5.8 in, well below the segment band.
Small, low-resolution screens with dated graphics; simple enough to use but cramped and slow compared with 2017 rivals' 7-in systems.
Neither wired nor wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto was offered on the 2017 Sentra (arrived with the 2019 refresh of the head unit).
Basic Nissan Voice Recognition and a 5.8-in nav unit with SiriusXM Traffic on SL/option; no phone projection to fall back on.
4-speaker base (S) and 6-speaker SV system are weak; an 8-speaker Bose system is available on SR/SL premium packages.
Analog gauges with a 5-inch Advanced Drive-Assist Display between them on SV and up; no full digital cluster.
No over-the-air software or map updates; nav maps updated by dealer/SD.
NissanConnect Mobile Apps link phone apps to the head unit; no widely offered remote start/lock app on the 2017 Sentra.
A single front USB-A port and 12V outlet; no rear USB, no wireless charging, no AC outlet.
Intelligent Key proximity entry with push-button start standard from SV up; S uses a conventional key; remote engine start available on upper trims.
Rear camera standard from SV (S uses it too per press kit), and Around View Monitor 360 camera available on SL — unusual for a 2017 compact.
No head-up display was offered on any 2017 Sentra.
8Use-Case FitGrades near the bottom of the scale.0.93F
Big rear legroom (37.4 in) makes rear-facing seats easy to fit, and the trunk takes a stroller, but IIHS rates LATCH ease of use Marginal.
IIHS Top Safety Pick only with optional FEB, NHTSA 4-star overall, Poor-rated headlights; FEB, BSW and adaptive cruise confined to SL/SR packages.
Adult-sized rear seat and a usable trunk, but no rear vents, rear USB or rear amenities.
Light controls, a smooth, well-calibrated CVT and a compliant ride make it an easygoing commuter, though merging with 124 hp takes planning.
32 MPG combined on regular fuel and cheap consumables make it inexpensive per mile.
Compact footprint and a tight 34.8-ft turning circle; rear camera standard, 360 camera on SL.
No tow rating published for US Sentra and only a sedan trunk — not a work vehicle.
Simple 1.8L engine, but the Jatco CVT's longevity record is a concern under hard use; common as a rental/fleet car rather than a work tool.
No onboard power, tie-downs or upfit ecosystem beyond a 12V outlet.
Comfortable seats, calm highway cruising and ~420 mi of range, but adaptive cruise is limited to top-trim packages and the engine drones on grades.
FWD-only with low ground clearance and no tow rating; pavement-bound.
15.1-cu-ft trunk with 60/40 split-fold seatback on SV and up (fixed on base S); sedan opening limits bulky items.
9Driving ExperienceMid-pack among this car's ten categories.1.78C-
Secure but dull handling on volume trims, with modest grip and body lean; the new SR Turbo and NISMO are noticeably sharper.
Light, accurate enough steering with little feedback.
Rear drum brakes on 1.8L trims (discs on SR Turbo/NISMO); adequate stops with a soft pedal.
The CVT is well calibrated and smooth with the 1.8L, but 124 hp leaves response soft and passing slow.
The 1.8L gets buzzy and loud when worked hard, as the CVT holds high rpm.
A tight turning circle for the class.
Simple, logical controls and good outward visibility; manual seat adjustment on volume trims and a wheel with limited telescope range.
Volume trims are appliance-like; the SR Turbo and manual NISMO add genuine character but are a small share of sales.
10Value & Market PositionMid-pack among this car's ten categories.1.86C-
The base S had a small 5-inch display, and the rearview camera and Bluetooth audio came only from SV up. Forward emergency braking, blind-spot warning and adaptive cruise sat in the SV/SR/SL option packages, while the 2017 Corolla had Toyota Safety Sense P as standard.
It is cheap to buy and heavily discounted, with a roomy rear seat, but the 124-hp 1.8L/CVT is slow and the cabin plain next to the new-for-2016 Civic and the Elantra. The new 188-hp SR Turbo at $21,990 adds real performance per dollar.
The range runs S, SV, SR, SL, SR Turbo and NISMO, with two engines and a manual or CVT on S, SR Turbo and NISMO, one of the broadest ladders in the class. It is FWD-only with no hybrid, and the FE S of 2016 is gone.
Calendar 2017 was the Sentra's best US sales year, at roughly 218,000 units, third among compact sedans behind the Civic and Corolla. Much of that volume came from fleet and rental sales.
Nissan's image leaned on value rather than aspiration in 2017. Sentra volume was discount- and fleet-driven, and its CVT reliability reputation was already a drag, though this was before the 2018–19 Ghosn turmoil.
Nissan was among the most incentive-heavy brands in 2017, pushing volume with large cash-back offers and subsidized APR. Sentras routinely sold well below MSRP.
In 2017 the fifth-year B17 was one year past its 2016 facelift and gained new turbo trims, but the platform dated from 2013 and rivals such as the 2016 Civic were fully redesigned. That puts it late mid-cycle.
Reviewers placed the base 2017 Sentra near the bottom of the compact class for its sluggish powertrain and CVT drone. The SR Turbo and NISMO drew modest praise but won no comparisons, and the car collected no major awards.