2012 Nissan Sentra Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
Now running six years on the same design, Nissan's Sentra is among the oldest entries in the compact sedan segment. With only an option...
Now running six years on the same design, Nissan's Sentra is among the oldest entries in the compact sedan segment. With only an option package adjustment this year, there’s not a lot to woo consumers away from competitive offerings, despite the Sentra’s blend of practical performance. Today, six years is just five years too long.
The Sentra offers six trims - 2.0, 2.0 S, 2.0 SR, 2.0 SL, SE-R, and sporty SE-R Spec V. For 2012, the 2.0 S trims now have the option of a Technology package that adds a navigation system with traffic, satellite radio and a USB port, but requires the Convenience package, which contains a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel, keyless access and start and Bluetooth. While nice additions, they’re not enough to keep the Sentra fresh and competitive, especially when the class is filled with entrants like the Focus, Golf, Mazda3 and Cruze. They all offer better handling, more power, more efficiency and newer designs.
2.0 trims are predictably powered by a 2.0-liter engine producing 140 horsepower, with the base 2.0 trim getting a 6-speed manual or CVT. The remaining trims get no such choice, with the CVT as the sole transmission, excepting the top-tier SE-R Spec V, which gets a 6-speed manual as well. SE-R and SE-R Spec V trims get a displacement bump by way of a 2.5-liter engine with 177 horses in the former and 200 even in the latter.
In the aftermath of the last redesign, the Sentra impressed with its list of standard features. While the years have made that list less impressive, it still comes well-equipped even in base trim. Traction and stability control, antilock brakes and daytime running lights are all standard along with six airbags, and the interior offers air conditioning, a tilt steering wheel, bucket seats and a respectable power package. 2.0 S and SR trims add a power steering wheel and mirrors, alloy wheels, cruise control, iPod interface and remote keyless entry, while the SL gets the aforementioned Technology package as standard equipment.
With the performance-oriented SE-R trims, you’ll enjoy 4-wheel antilock discs, a sport suspension and 17-inch alloys, with the SE-R Spec V adding an even more aggressive suspension and summer tires instead of the standard SE-R’s all-seasons. With the stiffer suspensions, the Sentra wanders too far into jarring abruptness rather than nimble confidence. This makes the SE-R the best option of the bunch, with its stronger engine and the best suspension in the lineup. The Spec V is simply too stiff without an equal increase in actual performance.
Sadly, that seems to be the story overall for the Sentra – the negatives simply outweigh the positives. More specifically, the positives of the competition far outweigh those of the Sentra. It just can’t compete. Even worse, there are no scheduled redesigns for this aging entrant anytime soon, especially after a mild warming over in 2010. For now, it’s best to simply pass this one over.
What owners say
"Overall, drivers are quite pleased with the 2012 Nissan Sentra, often highlighting its great gas mileage, reliability, and value for money. Many appreciate its straightforward design and sufficient interior space. However, some concerns were raised about the lack of power and features, with a few drivers mentioning that the sound system could be improved."
I love my new car so much, everything about it is perfect, i’m just sad to leave my sunroof but i’m very happy with it
June 12, 2026Car is in excellent shape, low km's for its age, very clean and affordable
June 3, 2026I have this car for two years. I used it for city and freeway driving. Four cylinder engine, but strong enough to handle AC here at all the time. Fuel efficiency proven, takes up to 380 miles city and freeway driving, combined! It does not take of the power with AC running at all the time, which has surprised me with 2.0 engine. Automatic CVT transmission is so reliable and smooth up the perfection. It is very stable and good at any driving condition.
January 3, 2014What owners say
I love my new car so much, everything about it is perfect, i’m just sad to leave my sunroof but i’m very happy with it
June 12, 2026Car is in excellent shape, low km's for its age, very clean and affordable
June 3, 2026I have this car for two years. I used it for city and freeway driving. Four cylinder engine, but strong enough to handle AC here at all the time. Fuel efficiency proven, takes up to 380 miles city and freeway driving, combined! It does not take of the power with AC running at all the time, which has surprised me with 2.0 engine. Automatic CVT transmission is so reliable and smooth up the perfection. It is very stable and good at any driving condition.
January 3, 2014Great value. Great gas mileage. I would compare it to the Honda Civic. I don’t think it is missing anything. Great car!
November 6, 2023I have had my SR for about 4 months now after my beloved 2002 Solara TRD was totalled by an 18 year old new driver. I had considered purchasing the SE-R with the 2.5L engine, but opted for the SR model as it was more economical and had the same body (with sideskirts and smoked headlights/tails). So far I am very pleased with my purchase. I scored a heck of deal since they were trying to move stock because the revamped 2013 is coming out soon. Power is steady and smooth with the torquey 2L engine combined with the CVT. Speaking of the CVT: it took some time to get used to 'no gears', but I am now a fan. Lots of interior room combined with lots of features - heated seats, bluetooth, hands free - really makes it an enjoyable commuter car. I find it very agile, quiet, combined with satifactory power. I think its a hate or love look, both inside and out - of course I am latter. I like the slab sided, squared corners and chopped rear end.
August 20, 2012I like the simplicity of the cab. It is not over wrought with bells and whistles and it serves the purpose of comfortable and safe transportation. The exterior design is very sporty and good to look at. I am very happy with the vehicle overall
May 26, 2015This is a very good and reliable car. Would purchase it again. The car has the CRT transmission and you never notice it shifting gears. The trunk is very large and the rear seats are 40/60 and let down for even more space
June 15, 2013I like how this car looks but I think I'm alone in that opinion. A lot of people have said that they think it looks very bland and unstylish. I like the square shape of the exterior alone with the sharp cut edges. The darkened headlights and spoiler on the SR trim improve the appeal. After I first purchased this car I noticed a clunk after a minute of driving. After a while this faded away and the dealer said it was a normal noise. It was a little disconcerting though. The displays are informative and the steering wheel controls are easy to use. The drivers seat is a little short and it doesn't fully support my legs but this isn't terribly uncomfortable. The rear seats feel the same way, however they have a redeeming factor. The 40/60 split is awesome and greatly improves the already impressive cargo capacity of this car. I was able to transport an entire 50 inch TV in the trunk with the seats folded down. Great for a small car. The car is very responsive. The steering is very tight and allows the driver to feel in complete control.
March 19, 2013Its a good car, running well and in great condition. I compared it with older Honda Civics and Honda Accords and the value came out the highest for the mileage and Carfax history.
July 21, 2024Great running car good on gas and l would compare it to a Toyota
March 30, 2024Trims & specs
Base MSRP $18,360 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.0L 140 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 13.1 cu ft |
Combined MPG 30 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $16,430 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.0L 140 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 13.1 cu ft |
Combined MPG 30 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $18,360 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.0L 140 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 13.1 cu ft |
Combined MPG 30 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $19,760 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.0L 140 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 13.1 cu ft |
Combined MPG 30 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $20,990 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.5L 200 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 12.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 24 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $20,490 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.5L 177 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 13.1 cu ft |
Combined MPG 27 | Drivetrain FWD |
Pricing trends
MSRP range
$16,430 - $20,990
Current avg. market price
$5,451
Trending down by 4.1% this month
May 2026 - November 2026
