2021 Nissan Sentra

Pros: Easy-to-use controls; broad range of available features; competitive pricing; pleasant ride and handling balance

Cons: Engine noise when accelerating

CG Says: The 2021 Nissan Sentra now has standard Apple CarPlay/Android connectivity on all models, but is otherwise unchanged after last year’s redesign. The Sentra is the larger of Nissan’s two compact sedans; it’s 5.7 inches longer than its Nissan Versa sibling, which was also redesigned for 2020. The Sentra’s sole engine is a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder that puts out 149 horsepower and is paired exclusively with a CVT automatic transmission.

Standard on all Sentras is Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 suite of features, which includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot alert, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, high beam assist, and rear automatic braking. Other available features include adaptive cruise control, rear door alert, driver attention monitor, heated steering wheel, leather upholstery, and a 360-degree camera display.

The redesigned 2020 Nissan Sentra made great strides over its predecessor on most every front; it moved from an also-ran in the compact-car class to a compelling choice that’s worth putting on your shopping list.