2027 Nissan Sentra vs. 2026 Nissan Sentra: What Changed
The 2027 Nissan Sentra is the one to buy at Empire Nissan. The reason is simple: nothing about the compact sedan got worse this year, and one trim got measurably better. The 2027 Sentra SL now returns an EPA-estimated 30 city / 38 highway / 33 combined MPG, up from 29 / 36 / 32 on the 2026 SL. Its starting MSRP is $29,265, versus an MSRP of $29,235 a year ago.
EPA-estimated fuel economy figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors.
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, process and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
Both model years share the same ninth-generation design, the same 149-horsepower engine, the same 12.3-inch NissanConnect touchscreen, and the same IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ award. Here is exactly what separates them.
What Is New for the 2027 Nissan Sentra
The 2027 Sentra carries forward the ninth-generation redesign that arrived for the 2026 model year. Two things changed.
First, fuel economy improved on the SL. It is the only trim whose EPA ratings moved, and it moved in the right direction.
Second, Nissan added a Midnight Edition appearance package to the SR trim. It applies black finishes to the wheels, exterior trim and roof. Both model years remain available at Empire Nissan while 2026 inventory lasts.
2027 vs. 2026 Nissan Sentra Pricing and Trims
Both model years offer the same four trims: S, SV, SR and SL.
Starting MSRP by Trim
| Trim | 2027 MSRP | 2026 MSRP | MSRP Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 24,265 | 23,845 | $420 |
| SV | 25,265 | 24,615 | $650 |
| SR | 26,265 | 26,245 | $20 |
| SL | 29,265 | 29,235 | $30 |
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, process and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
The pattern matters more than the individual numbers. On the S and SV, the 2026 model year is the cheaper buy, and the two cars are mechanically identical. Shoppers focused on entry price have a clear reason to look at remaining 2026 stock.
On the SR and SL, the gap closes to almost nothing. The SL is the standout. It asks roughly thirty dollars more for a car that costs less to fuel every week of its life. For a trim-by-trim walkthrough of either year, see our 2027 Nissan Sentra trims and pricing page or the 2026 Nissan Sentra trim breakdown.
Factory Packages
| Package | Available On | MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| S Cold Weather Package | S | $500 |
| SV Convenience Package | SV | $990 |
| SR All-Weather Package | SR | $650 |
| SR Premium Package | SR | $2,300 |
| Floor Mat Package | All trims | $300 |
| Trunk Package | All trims | $170 |
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, process and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
The Floor Mat Package adds carpeted floor mats and a carpeted trunk mat. The Trunk Package adds a hide-away trunk net and shopping bag hooks.
Fuel Economy: The One Specification That Changed
Every Sentra uses the same engine and transmission. Fuel economy differences come down to wheel and equipment packaging rather than powertrain changes. Here are the EPA-estimated ratings by trim.
| Trim | 2027 EPA-Estimated MPG | 2026 EPA-Estimated MPG |
|---|---|---|
| S | 30 city / 38 hwy / 33 combined | 30 city / 38 hwy / 33 combined |
| SV | 30 city / 38 hwy / 33 combined | 30 city / 38 hwy / 33 combined |
| SR | 29 city / 36 hwy / 32 combined | 29 city / 36 hwy / 32 combined |
| SL | 30 city / 38 hwy / 33 combined | 29 city / 36 hwy / 32 combined |
EPA-estimated fuel economy figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors.
The 2027 SL gains one MPG in the city, two on the highway, and one combined over the 2026 SL. For drivers commuting between Ontario, Fontana and San Bernardino, the highway gain is the one that shows up at the pump. Every other trim is unchanged.
Performance and Powertrain
Every 2027 and 2026 Nissan Sentra uses the same 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, designated MR20DD. It produces 149 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 146 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. Power reaches the front wheels through Nissan’s Xtronic continuously variable transmission. There is no all-wheel-drive option and no alternative engine on any trim.
| Specification | 2027 Nissan Sentra | 2026 Nissan Sentra |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L inline-4 (MR20DD) | 2.0L inline-4 (MR20DD) |
| Horsepower | 149 hp at 6,000 rpm | 149 hp at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 146 lb-ft at 4,000 rpm | 146 lb-ft at 4,000 rpm |
| Transmission | Xtronic CVT | Xtronic CVT |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive |
| Fuel tank | 12.4 gallons | 12.4 gallons |
Interior, Comfort and Cargo Space
Passenger space is identical across both model years. The Sentra seats five and offers 14.3 cubic feet of trunk space. If you need more room, it is worth weighing the Nissan Sentra against the Nissan Altima.
Interior Dimensions
| Measurement | Front | Rear |
|---|---|---|
| Legroom | 44.0 in | 34.8 in |
| Headroom | 38.9 in without moonroof / 37.7 in with moonroof | 36.7 in |
| Shoulder room | 56.2 in | 54.6 in |
Curb weight also carries over unchanged. The S and SV weigh 3,097 pounds, the SR 3,153 pounds, and the SL 3,177 pounds.
Upholstery by Trim
Materials climb with the trim ladder. The S uses cloth and the SV upgrades to a higher-grade cloth. The SR adds sport cloth with accent stitching, with TailorFit sport leatherette available. The SL comes standard with TailorFit soft-touch quilted leatherette.
The Sentra SR earned a spot on the 2026 Wards 10 Best Interiors and UX list. The award was judged on a 2026 Sentra SR, and it is a strong signal for either model year, since the cabin is unchanged.
Technology and Infotainment
This is the most misunderstood part of the current Sentra, so it is worth stating plainly. The 12.3-inch NissanConnect touchscreen is standard equipment on the base S trim, in both model years. It is not an upgrade you climb the lineup to reach.
What changes as you move up is the driver’s instrument display and the audio system.
Displays and Audio by Trim
| Trim | Instrument Display | Audio System |
|---|---|---|
| S | 7-inch multi-information display | 4 speakers |
| SV | 12.3-inch enhanced multi-information display | 4 speakers |
| SR | 12.3-inch enhanced multi-information display | 6 speakers, Bose 8-speaker available |
| SL | 12.3-inch enhanced multi-information display | Bose 8-speaker premium, standard |
The rest of the technology is consistent across both years. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connect wirelessly. A wireless charging pad is available. NissanConnect services cover remote door lock and unlock, remote start, vehicle location and automatic collision notification.
Safety Ratings and Driver-Assist Features
Both the 2027 and the 2026 Nissan Sentra are IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ winners. Each earned Good ratings in the small overlap front, moderate overlap front and side crash tests. Each also earned Good for headlights and Good for pedestrian front crash prevention.
Standard on Every Trim
Automatic Emergency Braking
With Pedestrian Detection and Intelligent Forward Collision Warning.
Blind Spot Warning
With Blind Spot Intervention.
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Warns of approaching traffic when backing out.
Lane Departure Warning
With haptic steering wheel feedback, plus Lane Departure Prevention.
Traffic Sign Recognition
Displays posted signs in the driver’s information display.
Intelligent Driver Alertness
Monitors steering patterns for signs of fatigue.
Driver-assistance and advanced safety systems are supplemental aids and are not substitutes for safe and attentive driving. Availability, operation, and effectiveness vary by trim and equipment and depend on factors including road, weather, traffic, and vehicle condition. Always keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. See your owner’s manual for system limitations and details.
Available on Higher Trims
| Feature | SR | SL |
|---|---|---|
| ProPILOT Assist | Available | Standard |
| Lane Keep Assist with Cyclist Detection | Available | Standard |
| HD Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection | Available | Standard |
| Rear Automatic Braking | Not offered | Standard |
Driver-assistance and advanced safety systems are supplemental aids and are not substitutes for safe and attentive driving. Availability, operation, and effectiveness vary by trim and equipment and depend on factors including road, weather, traffic, and vehicle condition. Always keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. See your owner’s manual for system limitations and details.
Airbag protection is the same across both model years. It includes front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, rear seat-mounted side airbags, roof-mounted curtain airbags for front and rear outboard occupants, and driver and front passenger knee airbags.
Warranty Coverage
Every new Sentra, in either model year, carries the same Nissan factory coverage.
| Coverage | Term |
|---|---|
| Basic limited warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
| Powertrain limited warranty | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
| Corrosion perforation | 60 months / unlimited miles |
| Roadside assistance | 36 months / 36,000 miles |
This information is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Warranty coverage depends on the specific terms of your vehicle’s warranty agreement. Consult your owner’s manual or a qualified legal professional for guidance on your individual situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2027 Nissan Sentra worth choosing over the 2026 model?
Yes. The 2027 Nissan Sentra SL improves to an EPA-estimated 30 city / 38 highway / 33 combined MPG, up from 29 city / 36 highway / 32 combined on the 2026 SL, while its starting MSRP rises only about thirty dollars. The 2027 SR also adds a new Midnight Edition appearance package. No trim lost equipment or efficiency for 2027, which makes the newer model year the stronger overall choice.
EPA-estimated fuel economy figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors.
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, process and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
What is the starting price difference between the 2027 and 2026 Nissan Sentra?
The 2027 Nissan Sentra S carries an MSRP of $24,265, compared with an MSRP of $23,845 for the 2026 S, an MSRP difference of $420. The gap narrows further up the lineup. The 2027 SR has an MSRP of $26,265 against an MSRP of $26,245 for the 2026 SR, and the 2027 SL has an MSRP of $29,265 against an MSRP of $29,235 for the 2026 SL.
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, process and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
How much cargo space does the Nissan Sentra offer?
Both the 2027 and the 2026 Nissan Sentra offer 14.3 cubic feet of trunk cargo volume. That figure is unchanged between the two model years and consistent across all four trim levels.
What engine powers the 2027 Nissan Sentra?
Every 2027 Nissan Sentra uses a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, designated MR20DD, producing 149 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 146 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. It pairs with an Xtronic continuously variable transmission driving the front wheels. The same powertrain is used in the 2026 Sentra.
Does the 2027 Nissan Sentra come with standard driver-assist safety technology?
Yes. Every 2027 Nissan Sentra includes Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, Blind Spot Warning with Blind Spot Intervention, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning and Prevention, Traffic Sign Recognition, and Intelligent Driver Alertness as standard equipment. ProPILOT Assist is standard on the SL and available on the SR.
Driver-assistance and advanced safety systems are supplemental aids and are not substitutes for safe and attentive driving. Availability, operation, and effectiveness vary by trim and equipment and depend on factors including road, weather, traffic, and vehicle condition. Always keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. See your owner’s manual for system limitations and details.
Find Your Nissan Sentra at Empire Nissan
The verdict is the 2027 Nissan Sentra. It is the current model year, it gives up nothing to the 2026, and on the SL it delivers better fuel economy for virtually the same price. Shoppers working to the lowest entry price still have a reason to ask about remaining 2026 S and SV inventory, and our team will show you both. Still cross-shopping the segment? See how the Sentra compares with the Honda Civic and Hyundai Elantra.
Visit Empire Nissan at 1377 Kettering Dr, Ontario, CA 91761 to see the Sentra in person, or call our sales team at (909) 740-6712.
Disclaimers
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, process and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
EPA-estimated fuel economy figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors.
Driver-assistance and advanced safety systems are supplemental aids and are not substitutes for safe and attentive driving. Availability, operation, and effectiveness vary by trim and equipment and depend on factors including road, weather, traffic, and vehicle condition. Always keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. See your owner’s manual for system limitations and details.
This information is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Warranty coverage depends on the specific terms of your vehicle’s warranty agreement. Consult your owner’s manual or a qualified legal professional for guidance on your individual situation.