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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2007 Nissan Sentra

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Overview

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2007 Nissan Sentra Review

By KBB.com Editors

Launching the new subcompact Versa early in 2006 left Nissan's existing compact Sentra in an ambiguous spot. Now, by redesigning the Sentra for its sixth generation, Nissan has clarified the distinction between the two. The 2007 Sentra sedan has grown by 5.9 inches in wheelbase, 2.3 inches in overall length, 4.0 inches in height and 3.2 inches in width. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard, but the big news is Nissan's continuously variable transmission (CVT), which is offered for the first time in a Sentra. About 700 algorithms are available and an overdrive button alters the shift points to improve responsiveness.

You'll Like This Car If...

If you like the idea of ride comfort mixed with frugal fuel economy and almost-sporty road behavior in a spacious compact, the Sentra can be a good common-sense choice. Shoppers who demand complete safety features should note that every Sentra contains both side-curtain and seat-mounted airbags, though anti-lock braking (ABS) is an option rather than standard, except on the top-rung 2.0 SL model.

You May Not Like This Car If...

Despite its power-transmitting efficiency, a CVT-equipped Sentra probably won't satisfy those who demand all-out performance, so a stick-shift model or the coming-later SE-R would make a snappier choice. While Nissan's enlarged compact proves pleasantly capable, and the company promotes it as sportier than its predecessor, in reality it falls a bit short on the excitement scale.

What's New for 2007

In addition to CVT availability, Nissan's second-smallest sedan is bigger inside and out, as well as more powerful: Specifically, 140 horsepower versus the prior 126. Buyers who crave more assertive performance can wait for the Sentra SE-R, which debuted at the Los Angeles Auto Show and goes on sale in 2007.

Driving the Sentra

Driving Impressions Nissan's CVT works very smoothly and efficiently. At idle, the engine is nearly silent and, while some noise appears when pushing hard, most other CVT-equipped vehicles are noisier. Although its...

powertrain is willing, the CVT sedan is a little on the sluggish side—but more energetic from a standstill. Ride comfort is pleasant on most surfaces and tolerable even over rougher pavement, although the Sentra S felt slightly less smooth on highway rough spots. Occasionally, a serious bump may yield a sinking sensation or a rather harsher hit. The steering feel isn't sporty, but it's close, and the Sentra tracks well on highways and behaves adroitly on twisting roads.

Favorite Features

Continuously Variable Transmission
Nissan's CVTs rank among the best, a result of the company's development process over the past 27 years. CVTs have been available in Nissan vehicles globally since 1992 and in U.S. models since 2003.

Expanded Interior Space
Significantly increased dimensions mean passengers have considerably more room than in previous Sentras, as well as in many other compact sedans. The four-inch height increase also eases entry/exit, as well as adding headroom.

2007 Nissan Sentra Details

Interior

Specifically designed for North America, the 2007 Sentra has an interior that Nissan claims is "a little more upscale and functional" than the previous model. There's a new instrument panel layout and the gearshift location is no longer down on the floor. Passenger volume has grown by 8.9 cubic feet and trunk capacity by 1.5 cubic feet; without question, this sedan is roomier than past Sentras. Front occupants get plenty of space and rear-seat room is abundant. Instruments are simple but readable, except for the bar-type fuel and temperature gauges and the trip odometer. Front cupholders adjust to hold a 32-ounce cup.

Exterior

Built on Nissan-Renault's Global C platform, which is also used for the Renault Megane and other models not sold in the U.S., the Sentra is manufactured in Mexico. So was the prior generation, but the Mexican plant has benefited from 353 additional assembly robots. Some Sentra styling touches are reminiscent of the current Quest minivan, especially up front. Use of a relatively long wheelbase (108.7 inches), coupled with greater height, permits substantially increased passenger space. Short front and rear overhangs help give the Sentra a modern profile. Nissan notes that the Sentra's 70.5-inch width is comparable to many midsize sedans.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

Three trim levels are offered. Even in base 2.0 trim, the Sentra includes air conditioning, power windows/locks and a CD player, with either manual shift or the optional CVT. Nissan's volume leader, the midlevel 2.0 S model, gets bigger (16-inch) tires, remote keyless entry, steering wheel-mounted audio controls and a trip computer. Topping the line, the 2.0 SL adds the continuously variable transmission, as well as leather interior trim, 16-inch alloy wheels, anti-lock braking (ABS), an "Intelligent Key" and Bluetooth hands-free phone operation. On all models, seat-mounted airbags and curtain-type airbags are standard.

Optional Equipment

In the base Sentra and 2.0 S, Nissan's CVT adds $800 to the price, while it's standard in the 2.0 SL sedan. Special features included in the Convenience Package include an overhead CD holder and a trunk divider that permits hidden storage. Also optional are an "Intelligent Key" keyless entry system, leather upholstery, Rockford Fosgate sound, Bluetooth hands-free phone operation and either XM or SIRIUS Satellite Radio. Anti-lock braking is a stand-alone option for the base sedan, but bundled with alloy wheels for the 2.0 S model.

Under the Hood

Every regular Sentra has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine driving either a six-speed manual transmission or Nissan's continuously variable transmission (CVT), which includes an overdrive button. The SE-R Spec V model, which debuts in 2007, will have a 2.5-liter engine.

2.0-liter in-line 4
140 horsepower @ 5100 rpm
147 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 28/34 (manual), 29/36 (automatic)

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2007 Nissan Sentra Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

8.3

Out of 10

Based on 385 Ratings for the 2007 - 2012 models.

Review this car

Value

8.7/10

Quality

8.5/10
Reliability

8.9/10

Performance

8.6/10
Comfort

8.7/10

Styling

8.7/10

Surprisingly fun and easy to drive

By G-pa (SD) on Sunday, June 02, 2013

I don't own this car

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 7/10
Comfort: 9/10

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"After three successive Honda's; the Company knifed me in the back with it's cheap, 2011 Civic. An excuse I heard from a Dealer: Honda had big plans for the Civic; but Crash of 2008; and the Recession that followed; caused, the Company to, "cheapen up." Bought a Nissan Sentra S, in 2011. Put 45000 miles on it before passing it down to a Family Member. Surprisingly, that Car far exceeded my expectations. Nary a problem with anything! Still has original tires on it; and Tread Wear that should last through the Summer. Smooth, and fun little car to drive. Very Reliable, and inexpensive to own. Extremely easy to get in and out of; for Old Dudes. Minuses: Probably it's traditional styling; it's cheap cloth interior on the door panels; and the lack of temperature and mileage indicators. Loved that little Car. On one long road trip: the thing averaged 36.2 MPG. For $17,000 Bucks, I'll take that any time."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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LOVE THIS CAR

By RICK (MA) on Saturday, May 18, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 18,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Great to drive"

Cons: "none"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"This is my 3rd sentra.Best car i have ever owned. Has nav,heated leather,sat. radio,bluetooth,moon roof,etc.I especially love the intelligent key ,I won't buy a car now without it.Also love the fact that when my seatbelt isnt buckled the car doesnt beep at you.Rides like a mid size car and the engine and transmission work seamlessly together.I just love everything about this car"

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

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salvage title / frame damage

By sonia (FL) on Thursday, April 11, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 130,000

10 3.0

overall rating 3 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 3/10
Value: 3/10
Reliability: 3/10
Quality: 3/10
Performance: 3/10
Styling: 3/10
Comfort: Not Rated

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 3

"2007 model with 130,000 miles. salvage title, total loss, reported to Autocheck. damage to the rear bumper support.(frame damage). Runs fine"

1 person out of 2 found this review helpful

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salvage title / frame damage

By sonia (FL) on Thursday, April 11, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 130,000

10 3.0

overall rating 3 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 3/10
Value: 3/10
Reliability: 3/10
Quality: 3/10
Performance: 3/10
Styling: 3/10
Comfort: Not Rated

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 3

"2007 model with 130,000 miles. salvage title, total loss, reported to Autocheck. damage to the rear bumper support.(frame damage). Runs fine"

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Best Car Ive Ever Owned 21 cars later

By Kev3288 (OK) on Thursday, April 11, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 44,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Pocket Rocket, MPG, Roomy, Acceleration"

Cons: "Only 2 cup holders."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I traded in my 2006 PT Convertible because I began commuting 300+ miles a month. I found a brand new 2012 SE-R at the dealership for 24K loaded with sunroof, Rockford Fosgate Audio, Navigation, Traction Control all the things you can want. This car gets 27mph city and Ive pulled 40 on the HWY. It averages probably 35mph. Thats with the 2.5L 177HP engine and CVT. If you want the best of all worlds the 2012 SER is the way to go. Besides the 2013 just looks dull in comparison."

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