2013 Nissan Sentra Road Test and Review: Final Thoughts
The 2013 Nissan Sentra strikes me as a textbook example of what happens when car company executives execute a product program solely informed by numbers in spreadsheets and data gathered during focus groups. At its core, the new Sentra is an exceptionally practical and reasonably competent conveyance. For most compact car buyers, every box is checked, making the Sentra an accomplished commuter car and grocery getter.
Still, I can’t help but note that something is missing here.
If this new Sentra isn’t attractively or boldly designed, and if it doesn’t offer an ounce of dynamic engagement (even as an unexpected bonus rather than as a marketing tool to support Nissan's "Shift" advertising tagline), then what it really needs is a compelling left-brain argument in favor of purchase, like the lowest sticker price in its class, or the best fuel economy rating, or the best crash-test ratings, or the best safety features, or the best warranty, or a free maintenance program, or the biggest rebate, or the cheapest lease deal, or the best projected resale value.
Unfortunately for Nissan, the Sentra doesn’t make any of these arguments. Yet. Remember, the car is brand new. Until this Graphite Blue Sentra SV rolled into my driveway, I hadn’t seen one on the road. So there is still time for the Sentra to emerge from the shadows. And that time will certainly tell.