2005 Nissan Sentra New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2005 Nissan Sentra?
Body-colored door handles and a new front grille treatment are added to all 2005 Nissan Sentras. Base 1.8 models have a new storage bin located on the upper dash. The 2005 Nissan Sentra 1.8 S gets standard cruise control, a trip computer, and revised seat fabrics to create a more compelling value equation. Sporty Sentra SE-R models also have new seat fabric, along with a revised shift knob on the Spec V version. Spec V models also receive upgrades designed to improve shift action. Four new colors and two new option packages debut for 2005. The new 1.8 S Audio Package includes a 300-watt Rockford Fosgate sound system, a six-disc in-dash CD changer, and nine speakers including a subwoofer. The new 1.8 S Sport Appearance Package adds fog lights, a rear spoiler, 16-inch alloy wheels, the SE-R's front grille, and leather trim for the steering wheel and shift knob. Last year's 2.5 S model is cancelled, but a new 1.8 S Special Edition takes its place, blending the Audio and Sport Appearance packages with the SE-R's new seat fabric and unique badges.

Advantages of the 2005 Nissan Sentra:

• SULEV 1.8-liter engine on base and S models
• High-powered 2.5-liter engine on SE-R and Spec V versions
• Quality interior materials
• Competitive pricing

Objections to the 2005 Nissan Sentra:

• Cramped rear seat room
• Dowdy styling
• Archaic rear suspension design

Editor's Advice:
Consider the 2005 Nissan Sentra to be an also-ran in the economy car sweepstakes. Despite styling that has been cleaned up (dig that Maxima knockoff grille), this is an innocuous and forgettable ride unless you pop for the sporty SE-R Spec V or your environmentalist leanings dictate that you must drive a vehicle with ultra-low emissions (if this is the case, may we show you a Ford Focus with a PZEV motor?). Add in a lack of rear seat room, and the Nissan Sentra gets lost in a sea of good to excellent competitors such as the Honda Civic, the Ford Focus, the Mazda 3 and the Hyundai Elantra.