2013 Nissan Sentra review

1. Seating for all

The 2013 Nissan Sentra seats up to five people with surprising passenger space. In the front seat, you'll notice the increased leg and headroom, allowing taller drivers to feel comfortable. The 2013 Sentra also has a decent-sized back seat for a compact car, with 37.4 inches of legroom, so friends won't mind you driving for the next night out. The Sentra is optimized for kids too, with LATCH anchors on the outer seats, and tether anchors for the middle seat—this means you could fit three booster seats across the back row.

2. Attractive options list

Options can take a car from average to an excellent daily driver, as seen on the 2013 Sentra and its plethora of packages. The protection package is handy, with upgraded floor mats and mudflaps, but the electronics package adds an auto-dimming mirror and ambient lighting. The premium package (not available on base trim) adds a power moonroof and Bose^® eight-speaker sound system. SL-only options include available leather seats, heated front seats, disc rear brakes, and fancy illuminated footwell accent lighting.

3. Solid MPG

Let's all admit it: no one loves going to the gas station. Skip that annoyance more often with the 2013 Nissan Sentra. With the base S trim's manual transmission, the Sentra earns an EPA-estimated 30 mpg combined.

 Any trim above the base has a thrifty CVT, returning an EPA-estimated 33 mpg combined. Note that the optional FE package raises the EPA-estimated highway fuel economy figure by 1 mpg, but does not change the combined gas mileage figure.

4. Trim it up

Maybe base isn't your style, or perhaps you prefer loaded vehicles. The 2013 Nissan Sentra has you covered with four available trims: S, SV, SR, and SL. The key differences are that the S trim is locked to a six-speed manual transmission, while the SV provides value with a CVT and premium cloth seats. The SR adds sporty looks, with 17-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, and chrome accents. The SL adds luxury appointments, with heated exterior mirrors, dual-zone climate control, and available SiriusXM satellite radio with a subscription.

5. Sporty exterior

The 2013 Nissan Sentra scores points for high curb appeal, as it looks more upscale and sportier than in previous years. A handsome and mature design up front shows modern and athletic lines, with large headlights and a horizontal bar grille. The rear features flowing lines and a unique taillight treatment that pulls into the side profile. Additional brightwork following the base of the window highlights aerodynamic curves, making for a sedan that's great to look at from any angle. For the ultimate Sentra with standout looks, check out the SR trim with additional visual enhancements.