The 2009 Nissan Sentra shows why size matters in the compact class. It’s larger than the competition and equipped to overshadow them on features and performance, too.
The 2009 Nissan Sentra should be on your shopping list if you are looking for a compact economy car. Larger than Civic or Corolla, Sentra gives you room, something you can never have enough of in a small car. Nearly 180 inches long and 70.5 inches wide, Sentra is roomy and space efficient. Overall, there are about 98 cubic feet of passenger volume and 13.1 cubic feet of trunk space. It’s also taller than most, so you don’t feel like you’re sitting under the traffic.
The 2009 Sentra comes in five varieties: base 2.0 ($19,730 MSRP), uplevel 2.0 S ($16,960 MSRP), top-of-the-line 2.0 SL ($19,660 MSRP), sporty SE-R and performance SE-R Spec V. All 2.0 versions have a 140-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The 2.0 S comes with a six-speed manual transmission. Optional on 2.0 S and standard on 2.0 and 2.0 SL is a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The SE-R has a 177-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a CVT; Spec V also has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder but with 200 hp and a mandatory six-speed manual.
At a glance, the Sentra looks like a slightly smaller version of the Altima. All the Nissan family cues are present including the sense that Sentra offers a bit of sport with its economy focus. Sentra wears 15- or 16-inch rubber, and foglamps (standard on S and SL) are available while a power moonroof is optional on the S and SL.
For 2009, the Sentra gets a redesigned rear trunklid, new cloth seat trims, standard automatic door locks and an available MP3-compatible radio for 2.0 S and 2.0 SL models.
Sentra’s roomy cabin is further enhanced by a higher seating position than most. This makes it easy to get in and out of while providing the driver with a superior view ahead. The cabin is nicely designed and decorated with a fresh, contemporary look. The materials are a cut above most compact car standards. The front seats are comfortable and very supportive, unusual in this class. A 60/40-split/folding backseat is standard. The rear seat cushion can be flipped forward, allowing the split rear seatback to fold flat, level with the floor. In addition, Sentra offers some innovative convenience features for a compact including rear cupholders that can hold 32-ounce cups and 20-ounce bottles, high-mounted front-seatback pockets for backseat passengers and a configurable partition in the trunk that can form two compartments, one hidden from prying eyes. Leather upholstery, a wireless cell phone link and keyless locking and starting are standard on SL.
When you do a bit of comparison shopping, you’ll appreciate how well equipped Sentra is. Standard equipment includes air conditioning, power windows and locks, cruise control and steering wheel-mounted controls (on S and SL), keyless ignition system (optional on S) and XM Satellite Radio (optional on S).
The Sentra uses a 140-hp 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder with 147 lb/ft of torque. “Shifters” will love the smooth and precise six-speed manual while the “shiftless” will be pleased with the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) with an electronic drive-by-wire throttle. EPA estimated mileage for the Sentra is 25 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
Standard safety features include side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags, a security system (optional on 2.0) and four-wheel antilock braking system (optional 2.0, standard on S and SL). The Sentra has received the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) highest rating – 5 stars – for front-impact crash safety.
The Sentra SE-R and SE-R Spec V are the performance models. The SE-R is built for mainstream consumers who want a sportier feel; the Spec V is built to please tuners and serious drivers. SE-R and Spec V have four-wheel disc brakes, sport suspensions and specific exterior and interior styling cues. The 200-hp 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder with 180 lb/ft of torque motivates the Spec V. The 177-hp 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder with 172 lb/ft of torque moves the SE-R. The six-speed manual transmission does the honors for the Spec V while the CVT offers automation or simulated gear shifts with paddleshifters on the SE-R.
Both of the SE-R performance models are distinguished from regular Sentras by different nose and tail treatments, body kits and rear spoilers. The SE-R boasts numerous interior upgrades including an oil pressure gauge, lateral G-force meter and cloth sport seats embroidered with the SE-R designation. The SE-R Spec V adds red seatbelts. Sporty 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, active head restraints and the antilock braking system come standard while a 340-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system is optional on these cars.
Whether you want economical operation or economical performance, the 2009 Nissan Sentra has you covered. Why not stop by and see which Sentra suits your style? We’ll show the features and send you off on a test drive. See you soon!
