2022 Nissan Sentra Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

The Nissan Sentra has struggled in a segment of the market that is full of heavy-hitters. In recent years, many significant changes have been made that help it to be more competitive. The Sentra received a complete redesign in 2020. Still, there are a few areas that Nissan has yet to address. So is the 2022 Sentra a vehicle that should be avoided? Not at all. Here are its many advantages, as well as the things you should keep an eye on.

What's New for 2022?

There are no standard changes for the Sentra in 2022, but the sedan does gain a few feature packages to consider. Buyers can add the All-Weather package to the SV trim, which will mean getting heated side mirrors, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. As for the SR trim level, it is now eligible for the Midnight Edition package. As you probably suspected, this blacks out exterior elements such as the side mirrors and front grille on the Sentra for a more aggressive look.

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2022 Nissan Sentra – The Pros

1. Incredibly Comfortable Front Seats

Nissan gives the Sentra its incredibly popular "Zero Gravity" seats in the front. They are designed to leave the body in a neutral position that does not put pressure on any one point. For the driver and the front passenger, this translates to reduced fatigue and supreme comfort on even the longest of road trips. These sophisticated seats were inspired by NASA and their zero-gravity space travel.

2. Generous Number of Safety Features for the Price

One way that Nissan is standing out from its competitors is by loading its vehicles with a variety of standard driver aids. All models of the 2022 Sentra are equipped with forward collision warning, lane departure warning, automatic high beams, blind-spot monitoring, and pedestrian detection. Both forward and reverse automatic emergency braking are thrown in as well. The number of safety features is particularly impressive when factoring in the competitive starting price for the Sentra.

3. Extensive List of Technology Features

All models of the 2022 Sentra have Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a hands-free messaging assistant. The base model has a 7-inch touchscreen and a single USB-A port. For approximately $1,000 more, however, you can step up to the SV model, which upgrades to an 8-inch touchscreen and adds an extra USB-A as well as a USB-C port. All models have steering-wheel-mounted audio controls for added convenience.

4. Impressive Fuel Economy Estimates

Both the S and SV models of the 2022 Sentra are estimated to get 29mpg in the city and 39mpg on the highway. Going with the slightly-sportier SR model will mean going down to 28mpg city and 37mpg highway. Either way, these are impressive numbers that will likely save drivers money over time.

5. Upscale and Spacious Interior Design

For many years, the interior design of the Sentra was one of the largest complaints that critics had. This has changed in recent years, with new models using upscale materials and a clean look for the dashboard. The standard cloth upholstery is comfortable, and buyers can opt for upgrades like leather, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver's seat. Both rows of seating offer ample space for even taller adults, especially if buyers opt for a model without the sunroof.

6. Large and Versatile Trunk

There are 14.3 cubic feet of space to work with inside the trunk of the Sentra. Although there are some competitors that are larger, this Nissan sedan regains the edge with its versatility. The trunk opening is wide, making it easy to load. There is also a low liftover height, something that you will appreciate when trying to put heavier items in the trunk. The Sentra also features clever storage compartments in the cabin for smaller items such as sunglasses and cell phones.

7. Pleasant and Balanced Drive

The 2022 Nissan Sentra is not the fastest car out there. On the other hand, the ride is smooth. The Sentra will simply glide over most bumps in the road, all while providing the driver with responsive steering and braking. While it may not be a particularly athletic option, it will be more than satisfying for your daily commute or your next weekend getaway.

8. Stylish Exterior Design

The Nissan Sentra is no longer the boxy and boring sedan that it once was. Now, the aggressive grille and sweeping lines give the Sentra an athletic and pleasing exterior aesthetic. It is also available in bold color options, such as Electric Blue and Scarlet Ember. For an even more eye-catching look, you can opt for one of the two-tone paint schemes that pair one of five color options with a black roof. The Midnight Edition version of the SR is particularly attractive with its black rear spoiler and alloy wheels.

9. Available Drive-Assist Display

Select models of the 2022 Sentra are equipped with a 7-inch advanced drive-assist display. It provides you with an easy way to see any safety alerts, along with text message alerts, tire pressure, and more. This feature also has built-in driver attention monitoring so that it can warn you if it is time to take a break from the wheel by sounding an alert and displaying a coffee cup on the screen.

10. Available NissanConnect Services

NissanConnect allows drivers to integrate their Sentra into the rest of their high-tech life easily. It can work with Alexa or the Google Assistant to unlock a variety of remote features for the sedan. You can flash your lights to help you find it, start the car, lock your doors, and more. NissanConnect can also come with an automatic collision notification that will call for help after an accident if the driver is unable to. Buyers must subscribe and pay a monthly fee to access these features.

Reasons Not to Buy a 2022 Nissan Sentra – The Cons

1. Waiting on a Hybrid

Efficiency is the goal for most people shopping for a compact car. While the gas engine currently available for the Sentra gives you admirable fuel economy numbers, they simply cannot compete with what a hybrid can do. This is bad news for the Sentra because more and more competitors are offering a hybrid powertrain. Nissan will want to offer one in the near future in order to stay relevant moving forward.

2. Slow Acceleration from Only Engine Option

While the overall ride is satisfying, there is a definite lack of power when driving the 2022 Sentra. The 2.0L four-cylinder puts out only 149-horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque. This is likely fine for day-to-day driving around town, but you will definitely wish for more power when you are merging or passing on the highway. On the plus side, the standard CVT is smooth.

3. Hard to See Out of the Back

The wide rear pillars used in the Sentra's design help the vehicle look more athletic, but they also make it harder to see out of the back of this vehicle. True, all models are equipped with a rearview mirror. That said, many drivers prefer to be able to look over the shoulder when backing out of a spot. The rear pillars may also present a hazard when trying to change lanes.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

2022 Nissan Sentra vs. 2022 Hyundai Elantra

Like the Sentra, the new Elantra struggles to provide enough power. Unlike the Sentra, however, the Elantra offers engine upgrades that make it more exhilarating. The Elantra also is offering a hybrid starting in 2022. At the same time, the technology and advanced safety features for the Sentra are easier to use. Both of these compact sedans are well-rounded with similar strengths and weaknesses.

2022 Nissan Sentra vs. 2022 Toyota Corolla

The Corolla has long been one of the Sentra's biggest competitors. Once again, the base engine is weak and far from thrilling. The Corolla has an engine upgrade available, however. This Toyota is also available as both a sedan and a hatchback, which will undoubtedly appeal to those who need more cargo space. The only real advantage that the Sentra has over the Corolla is a slightly lower starting price.

Conclusion

Buyers will find there is a lot to love when they look at the 2022 Nissan Sentra. If this sedan really wants to compete moving forward it will need to switch up its powertrain options. A hybrid would be nice, as well as a more powerful gas engine for buyers to consider. Improvements to the shape of the Sentra that would make it easier to see out of would be appreciated as well. Nissan has made great progress when it comes to the Sentra overall, and it will hopefully continue to get better moving forward.