That harmony between comfort and capability defines the new Sentra. It maintains the confident driving behavior drivers expect, but with improved handling. There’s also a sport mode that adjusts throttle response, CVT tuning and steering effort to give the Sentra a more dynamic personality. “One of the great things about this car is how much fun it is to drive,” said Mueller.
Premium feel, everyday price
The 2026 Sentra is available in four trims, starting at $22,400 and topping out at $27,990. That’s a surprisingly affordable price for its style and features. “If you look at where we are price-wise, and then you look at the kind of technology you’re getting, these zero-gravity seats, the monolithic display that gives you that EV feeling, and the safety package of the technology, I think it’s a great value proposition that you just can’t argue with,” said Mueller.
“We look at every kind of touch surface you can get and make sure the surfaces you touch are something that’s comfortable for the hand or for the eyes.”
– Joseph Mueller, Marketability Manager, Nissan
This attention to detail makes a noticeable difference. The materials feel luxurious, with soft-touch surfaces in all the right places and a modern look. Mueller said the goal was to ensure drivers experience a cabin that feels truly well-made and is never a compromise.
Technology that impresses
At the heart of the Sentra’s interior design are two 12.3-inch screens housed in a single display. “I’m still not over the kind of new era of these screens,” Mueller said. “I think this monolith screen looks great.” The large display enhances the high-tech appearance of the Sentra.
“To me, the driving dynamics of this car are great. A lot of people get a Sentra, and they just get a great sedan, but you can also drive it and have a lot of fun driving this car.”
– Joseph Mueller, Marketability Manager, Nissan
This combination of intuitive technology and responsive driving defines Nissan’s approach to the compact sedan. Sport mode improves performance, while the updated interface and refined interior deliver a premium feel at an accessible price. It’s a sedan that appeals to both practical drivers and those who enjoy more spirited driving.
Building on feedback
Mueller said the team looked directly to customers for guidance when it came to improvements. “A lot of that comes from looking at feedback from current customers of the current Sentra,” said Mueller. “You hear people say: I like the handling and I wish the ride was smoother. That’s why we paid more attention to the smoothness of the ride on this one.”
“People may come here for the value or the technology we offer, but we also want them to know that we make great-driving cars.”
– Joseph Mueller, Marketability Manager, Nissan
It’s all part of Nissan’s commitment to continuous improvement. The Sentra, with its affordable price, is an introduction to the brand for many people. Nissan wants every owner to be confident that he or she has chosen a vehicle that has been designed with care and intention.
A fresh face for the future
While the new Sentra draws inspiration from previous model years, Mueller said the styling and interior create a completely new impression. “I hope they look at it and see this as kind of a brand new face,” he said. “We’ve taken a car that we think is great and elevated it in every way possible.”
“When you look at this interior, it’s really beautiful. I want people to think, wow, that’s a brand new Sentra!”
– Joseph Mueller, Marketability Manager, Nissan
With its updated design, refined cabin and responsive driving modes, the 2026 Nissan Sentra shows that affordable doesn’t have to mean boring. Affordable can also look good and be great to drive.
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