Redesigned two years ago, the 2022 Nissan Sentra continues to be an alluring ride. It can be even more if you opt for the brand-new Midnight Edition package, which comes with lovely black exterior trim and black 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. The powertrain maintains its status quo, which means the small sedan boasts a spirited, great-to-drive attitude, with speedy acceleration and nimble handling/balance.
A 2.0-liter direct-injection inline-4 cylinder engine puts out 149 horsepower @ 6400 rpm and 146 pounds-feet of torque @ 4400 rpm. Our test drive was mated to a fairly silent continuous variable transmission. An up front strut suspension and a rear multilink system soak obstacles with skill and self-assurance. Providing positive on-center response is an electric power steering. Want to save on gas as fuel prices go up the roof? Turn on the green eco button to the left of the steering wheel.
Boomerang-shaped reflector LED headlights flank the dark chrome V-motion grille to portray a forceful look. Boosting the appearance further are lower body side sill extensions, black-painted outside mirrors, and a rear spoiler and chrome tip. The practical cabin is plentiful with creature comforts such as dual auto a/c, flat-bottomed and tilt/telescopic steering column, 60/40 split fold rear seat, leather steering wheel and shifter, power-slide moon roof, overhead sunglass holder, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and six-speaker audio. The 7-inch Advanced Drive-Assist, located between tachometer and speedometer, displays vital info. Trunk space is an admirable 14.3 cubic feet. We recommend opting for the SR Premium Package, which will fetch you such wonderful features as thin projector LED headlights, power sliding glass moonroof with tilt feature, heated steering wheel and front seats, six-way power driver’s seat with two-way power lumbar, 8-speaker Bose premium audio, among others.
Dual front and side airbags, side airbag curtain for both rows, front knee airbags, vehicle dynamic and traction control systems, four-wheel antilock brakes with electronic brake distribution and brake assist, blind spot and lane departure warnings, rear-cross traffic alert, auto emergency brake with pedestrian detection, tire pressure monitoring system, three-point front seat belts with pretensioners, rearview camera and daytime running lights are standard.
Slotted between the smaller Versa and the Altima sedan, the reasonably priced and fuel-efficient Sentra responds with agility and grip in all driving conditions. First-time owners, please put this pleasant and energetic car at the top of your list to test drive. You won’t be disappointed.
SENTRA (SR)
Tires: 215/45R18
Wheelbase: 106.6 inches
Length: 182.7 inches
Width: 71.5 inches
Height: 57 inches
Weight: 3,084 pounds
Fuel capacity: 12.4 gallons
City: 28 mpg
Highway: 37 mpg
Base price: $22,100
Price as tested: $27,615
Web site: www.nissanusa.com