Nissan Evolution: The Nissan Sentra
The Nissan Sentra — an American version of the Japanese Sunny — is Nissan’s contribution to the country’s small car market. Originally a subcompact, the Sentra has grown over the years to become a compact car, although based on the interior space, the US EPA calls it a mid-sized. As far as Nissan is concerned, it’s the one bigger than the Versa, putting solidly into compact category.
The Nissan Sentra officially made its debut in 1982 as a replacement for the Datsun 210. While the Datsun was a rear wheel drive vehicle, the Sentra came out as a front wheel drive vehicle. Interestingly, the Sentra was the first vehicle in the United States to carry only the Nissan name, never having been released as an official Datsun.
Throughout its history, the Sentra has been released in many models, including a station wagon, a two door coupe, a two door hatchback and a three door hatchback. In 2000 the Sentra officially became a compact car — an upgrade from its subcompact status — and for a year the Sentra and the Altima shared the same size class.
In its current design manifestation, the new Nissan Sentra is larger in every capacity than its predecessors. Again upgraded in size — this time to mid size — the new Sentra is based on Renault architecture and is a four door sedan that rests on the Nissan C platform. It’s sold in numerous other countries under several different names. The Sunny is by far the most prevalent, but it’s also known as the Pulsar and the Tsuru throughout Europe, South America and New Zealand.
If you’re in the market for your own Nissan Sentra, feel free to stop by Classic Nissan, your local area Nissan dealership, for a test drive today or visit the website for more information.
Vehicle Search
Related Vehicles In Stock
Filed Under: Nissan Cars
About the Author: 