The engine just gets the job done thanks to the CVT transmission that keeps the mill working in the ideal rpm range. It offers up a decent amount of torque at low rpm, which is great for this type of car.
The CVT transmission works very well overall, however a minor glitch quickly becomes annoying: the transmission has the unfortunate tendency to slip when intense accelerations are required. The sedate steering system sterilizes the driving experience.
Don't expect much in terms of driving enjoyment here. On top of the mundane steering, the Sentra doesn't really feel connected to the road. What's more, because of the high roof line it's vulnerable to side winds and requires steering corrections on the driver's part. Handling is on par with the above. The Sentra proves efficient and honest in the city, but on the highway it's subject to Mother Nature's whims. The smooth and flexible suspension puts in an honest day's work.
Competition
The Sentra moves in one of the most rocking markets of the Canadian automobile industry, especially in Quebec where sales of subcompact cars are among the highest in North America. A number of strong players are jostling for the top spots, namely the Honda Civic DX-G ($19,480), the Mazda 3 GS ($18,095), the Toyota Corolla S ($19,200) and the Ford Focus SE ($16,199). But the competition doesn't stop there. Other contenders are the Chevrolet Cobalt LT ($17,895), the Hyundai Elantra GL ($18,095), the Kia Spectra LX Convenience ($17,795) and the Mitsubishi Lancer DE with options ($18,598).
Conclusion
The Sentra is a good car that unfortunately seems to struggle a little. In such a competitive class, generic styling and sub-par performances present a real risk in the eyes of consumers and often don't stand comparison. While the SE-R versions do pack an extra punch, their sales prices are consequently much higher.
photo:Matthieu Lambert
The CVT transmission works very well overall, however a minor glitch quickly becomes annoying: the transmission has the unfortunate tendency to slip when intense accelerations are required. The sedate steering system sterilizes the driving experience.
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| Our tester was equipped by an engine of 4 cylinders of 2-litres developping 140 hp. |
Don't expect much in terms of driving enjoyment here. On top of the mundane steering, the Sentra doesn't really feel connected to the road. What's more, because of the high roof line it's vulnerable to side winds and requires steering corrections on the driver's part. Handling is on par with the above. The Sentra proves efficient and honest in the city, but on the highway it's subject to Mother Nature's whims. The smooth and flexible suspension puts in an honest day's work.
Competition
The Sentra moves in one of the most rocking markets of the Canadian automobile industry, especially in Quebec where sales of subcompact cars are among the highest in North America. A number of strong players are jostling for the top spots, namely the Honda Civic DX-G ($19,480), the Mazda 3 GS ($18,095), the Toyota Corolla S ($19,200) and the Ford Focus SE ($16,199). But the competition doesn't stop there. Other contenders are the Chevrolet Cobalt LT ($17,895), the Hyundai Elantra GL ($18,095), the Kia Spectra LX Convenience ($17,795) and the Mitsubishi Lancer DE with options ($18,598).
Conclusion
The Sentra is a good car that unfortunately seems to struggle a little. In such a competitive class, generic styling and sub-par performances present a real risk in the eyes of consumers and often don't stand comparison. While the SE-R versions do pack an extra punch, their sales prices are consequently much higher.
photo:Matthieu Lambert
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