Nissan Sentra 2017: A Deep Dive Into Features & Performance
Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Nissan Sentra 2017, a car that's been making waves for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and overall value. If you're in the market for a compact sedan, the 2017 Sentra is definitely one to consider. We'll explore everything from its design and features to its performance and reliability, so you can make an informed decision. Let's get started!
Exterior and Interior Design
The Nissan Sentra 2017 boasts a sleek and modern exterior design. The front fascia features Nissan's signature V-motion grille, which gives it a more aggressive and sophisticated look. The headlights are sharp and angular, complementing the overall design. The body lines are clean and flow smoothly from the front to the rear, creating an aerodynamic silhouette. Available features like LED headlights and daytime running lights add a touch of premium flair to the higher trim levels. The car's dimensions strike a good balance, offering a decent amount of interior space while remaining easy to maneuver in urban environments. Color options range from classic hues like Super Black and Brilliant Silver to more vibrant choices like Red Alert and Blue Sapphire, allowing buyers to personalize their Sentra to their liking.
Stepping inside, the 2017 Sentra offers a comfortable and functional interior. The dashboard layout is intuitive, with controls that are easy to reach and understand. The materials used are generally of good quality, especially in the upper trim levels, where you'll find soft-touch surfaces and premium accents. The seats are well-cushioned and provide ample support, making long drives more comfortable. Rear passengers will appreciate the generous legroom, which is a standout feature in this class. The trunk offers a respectable amount of cargo space, making it practical for everyday errands and longer trips. Available features include a leather-wrapped steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a sunroof, adding to the overall comfort and convenience.
Technology and Features
The 2017 Nissan Sentra comes packed with a range of technology features designed to enhance the driving experience. The base model includes essential features like a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB port. As you move up the trim levels, you'll find even more advanced technology, such as a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. These systems allow you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car, giving you access to your favorite apps, music, and navigation tools. The infotainment system is generally user-friendly, with a responsive touchscreen and intuitive menus. The car also offers available features like a premium Bose audio system, which delivers crisp and clear sound quality. Other notable tech features include keyless entry with push-button start, and a suite of safety technologies.
Speaking of safety, the 2017 Sentra offers a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features. These include forward emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. These features help to prevent accidents and make driving safer and more convenient. The Sentra has also performed well in crash tests, earning good ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This provides added peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike. Overall, the 2017 Sentra offers a solid blend of technology and safety features, making it a competitive option in its class.
Performance and Handling
Under the hood, the Nissan Sentra 2017 typically features a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine provides adequate power for daily driving, offering a good balance between fuel efficiency and performance. It's not the sportiest engine on the market, but it gets the job done for most drivers. The engine is paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT is the more common choice, and it helps to maximize fuel economy by keeping the engine in its optimal power range. Some trims also offer a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine, which provides more punch and makes the car feel more responsive. This engine is a good choice for those who want a bit more performance.
The Sentra's handling is generally competent and predictable. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The suspension is tuned for comfort, so it absorbs bumps and road imperfections well. This makes for a smooth and comfortable ride, even on rough roads. The car doesn't offer the most engaging driving experience, but it's perfectly adequate for everyday commuting and errands. The brakes are also responsive and provide good stopping power. Overall, the 2017 Sentra is a comfortable and easy-to-drive car, but it's not designed for spirited driving.
Fuel Efficiency
One of the 2017 Nissan Sentra's strong suits is its fuel efficiency. The 1.8-liter engine with the CVT transmission delivers excellent gas mileage, making it a great choice for those who want to save money at the pump. The EPA estimates the Sentra gets around 29 miles per gallon in the city and 37 miles per gallon on the highway. These numbers are competitive with other cars in its class, and in real-world driving, you can expect to achieve similar results. The turbocharged 1.6-liter engine offers slightly lower fuel economy, but it still delivers respectable numbers. To maximize fuel efficiency, the Sentra also includes features like Eco mode, which optimizes the engine and transmission settings for better gas mileage. Overall, the 2017 Sentra is a fuel-efficient car that can help you save money on your daily commute.
Trim Levels and Options
The 2017 Nissan Sentra is available in a variety of trim levels, each offering a different set of features and options. The base S trim includes essential features like a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB port. Moving up to the SV trim adds features like a touchscreen infotainment system, dual-zone automatic climate control, and keyless entry. The SR trim offers a sportier look, with features like a rear spoiler, side skirts, and alloy wheels. The SL trim is the top-of-the-line model, with features like leather seats, a premium Bose audio system, and a sunroof. Each trim level offers a range of optional packages, allowing you to customize your Sentra to your liking. Some of the popular options include a navigation system, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. No matter which trim level you choose, the 2017 Sentra offers a great value for the money.
Reliability and Maintenance
The Nissan Sentra has a reputation for being a reliable car, and the 2017 model is no exception. It has received good reliability ratings from various sources, indicating that it's less likely to experience major mechanical problems. However, like any car, the Sentra requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. This includes routine oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections. The recommended maintenance schedule can be found in the owner's manual. It's also a good idea to keep an eye out for any warning signs, such as unusual noises or vibrations, and to address them promptly. By following the recommended maintenance schedule and addressing any issues early on, you can help to ensure that your 2017 Sentra remains reliable for years to come.
Pros and Cons
To summarize, let's take a quick look at the pros and cons of the 2017 Nissan Sentra:
Pros:
- Fuel-efficient
- Spacious interior
- User-friendly technology
- Good safety ratings
- Affordable price
Cons:
- Base engine lacks power
- Not the most exciting to drive
- Some interior materials feel cheap
Conclusion
Overall, the 2017 Nissan Sentra is a solid choice for anyone in the market for a compact sedan. It offers a good blend of fuel efficiency, interior space, technology, and safety features. While it may not be the most exciting car to drive, it's a reliable and practical choice for everyday commuting and errands. If you're looking for a car that's affordable, fuel-efficient, and comfortable, the 2017 Sentra is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to weigh the pros and cons and compare it to other cars in its class before making your final decision. Happy car shopping, guys!