The 2010 Nissan Sentra continues to deliver. With new features, Sentra continues to make a name for itself as a serious competitor. Whether it’s a car for the daily commute you’re looking for or some style and performance, the Sentra offers all this. And the best part? The MSRP will be kind to your wallet.

The 2010 Nissan Sentra is a roomy and stylish compact that offers responsive handling and performance. There are six models – 2.0, 2.0 S, 2.0 SR, 2.0 SL, SE-R and SE-R Spec V. All Sentras except the SE-R and SE-R Spec V share a 140-hp 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder engine that develops 147 lb/ft of torque. This engine features variable timing on the intake valves, helping to enhance its midrange power and efficiency. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on the 2.0 trim. With this powertrain, the EPA estimates fuel efficiency at 24 mpg city and 31 mpg highway.

The 2.0 S, 2.0 SR and 2.0 SL models come standard with an Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission® (CVT). With the efficiency of this tranny, the mileage estimates jump to 26 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. Edmunds.com reviewers describe the Sentra as a “competent performer” providing “smooth power.”

Stepping up to the SE-R gets you a 2.5-liter DOHC four-cylinder that develops 177 hp and 172 lb/ft of torque, mated to an Xtronic CVT with paddleshifters on the steering wheel. The SE-R Spec V has a modified version of the 2.5-liter engine that is good for a smoking 200 hp with 180 lb/ft of torque. This engine is paired with a six-speed close-ratio manual transmission.

Like other Nissans, the Sentra has an edgy design with a sloping nose and short decklid. Other features include new wraparound headlights and taillamps, and short front and rear overhangs. Also in the redesign for 2010 are the new front fascia and grille for the 2.0, 2.0 S and 2.0 SL trims.

The Sentra’s cabin is modern in both style and materials. The instrument panel has been revised with new trim and a new coin holder. Chrome accents have been added to temperature controls while main gauges are easy-to-read with a new, reddish-orange illumination color. The Sentra seats five comfortably and includes a 60/40-split/folding rear bench. There is also enough room for cargo with 13.1 cubic feet of trunk space and a laptop-sized locking glovebox. 

The base 2.0 comes with power windows and locks, 15-inch steel wheels, air conditioning and a four-speaker sound system with CD player and auxiliary jack. The 2.0 S bumps up the options with driver’s seat height adjustment, cruise control, power mirrors, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, a trip computer and a six-speaker stereo with MP3 capability and iPod interface.

The SE-R trim adds a lower body kit, sport seats, performance suspension tuning, G-force and oil pressure gauges and aluminum-trimmed pedals. The Spec V takes it even further with a lower and firmer suspension plus larger front brakes and racier interior trim.

All Sentra trims feature six standard airbags including full-length side-curtain airbags, and front-seat Active Head Restraints. Antilock brakes are standard on all models except for the 2.0. The 2010 Sentra received five stars, the most possible, for protection in frontal impact crashes from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

The Nissan Sentra 2.0’s MSRP starts at just $15,420. Great things come in small packages, and the Nissan Sentra is proof positive.