Plus, our experts talk about the safest place to store large, reusable water bottles while driving
By Mike Monticello
Main theme: In this podcast episode, we give our first impressions of the redesigned 2026 Nissan Sentra. It’s more of a significant refresh than a radical overhaul. Although it has new exterior and interior styling, and changes to the controls and displays, the 149-hp four-cylinder engine and continuously variable transmission (CVT) are carried over with only minor updates.
Of note, due to the discontinuation of the Versa, the Sentra is now Nissan’s lowest-priced car and one of the least expensive new vehicles in the U.S. It’s available in four trim levels, with the base S starting at $22,600, and even the top SL comes in at just under $28,000.
Our panelists delve into all aspects of the reworked Sentra, including its powertrain, handling, ride, front and rear-seat comfort, cabin quality, and controls. We also address a big question that thrifty shoppers may be asking: Why hasn’t Nissan released a hybrid version of the Sentra yet? That’s a potential deal breaker in today’s market, especially considering that compact hybrid sedans from Honda, Hyundai, and Toyota all trounce the Sentra’s EPA-estimated fuel economy without a significant price premium.
Read our Nissan Sentra first drive review.
Audience question: Where is the safest place to store those large reusable water bottles while driving? Could they become a dangerous projectile in a crash?
“Talking Cars” panelists (from left): Mike Monticello, Emily Thomas, and Jon Linkov.
Photo: Consumer Reports
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Recent Podcast Episodes
• Driving the Audi A6, episode 495
• Driving the Nissan Leaf, episode 494
• Driving the Toyota bZ, episode 493
• 10 Top Picks of 2026, episode 492
• Driving the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid, episode 491
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