2017 Nissan Sentra SV Review: Is It Still A Good Buy?
Hey everyone, let's dive into a review of the 2017 Nissan Sentra SV! The Sentra has always been a solid contender in the compact sedan market, known for its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride. But is the 2017 SV model still a relevant choice in today's world of ever-evolving automotive technology and design? Let's find out! We'll break down everything from its performance and features to its overall value proposition, helping you decide if this car is the right fit for you. Get ready to explore the ins and outs of this popular sedan. This review aims to be comprehensive, covering aspects that matter most to potential buyers, including real-world driving experiences, tech features, and how it stacks up against the competition. So, buckle up, and let's get started!
2017 Nissan Sentra SV: Overview
The 2017 Nissan Sentra SV, positioned as a mid-level trim, offers a blend of features and value that appeals to a wide range of drivers. It sits comfortably above the base models, offering upgrades in comfort, convenience, and technology without breaking the bank. The Sentra SV competes with other compact sedans like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Mazda3, all of which are known for their reliability and efficiency. This specific model year benefits from Nissan's focus on providing a smooth and composed driving experience, making it a popular choice for daily commutes and family use. Nissan has designed the Sentra to be user-friendly, with intuitive controls and a well-laid-out interior, making it easy to live with day in and day out. For many, the Sentra's appeal lies in its practicality. It offers a good balance of interior space for passengers and cargo, making it a versatile option for various needs. Its reputation for good fuel economy is another significant selling point, as it helps to keep running costs down. When compared to rivals, the 2017 Sentra SV often stands out for its competitive pricing, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers who still desire a well-equipped vehicle. This model year also introduced some subtle styling updates, enhancing the car's aesthetic appeal while maintaining its familiar and friendly appearance. Moreover, the inclusion of modern tech features in the SV trim, such as a touchscreen infotainment system and advanced safety technologies, provides added value, making the driving experience more enjoyable and safer. All of these features combine to present the 2017 Nissan Sentra SV as a well-rounded option in the compact sedan segment.
Key Features and Specs
The 2017 Nissan Sentra SV boasts several key features that enhance its appeal. Under the hood, it's equipped with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, designed to prioritize fuel efficiency. This engine is mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which contributes to smooth acceleration and optimized fuel economy. Inside, the Sentra SV typically includes features like a 5-inch color display for the infotainment system, offering access to audio, phone connectivity, and vehicle settings. The SV trim also often comes with upgraded cloth upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, enhancing the cabin's comfort and feel. In terms of safety, the Sentra SV usually includes features like a rearview camera, which aids in parking and maneuvering. Furthermore, it might offer options like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, adding to the car’s safety suite. The infotainment system supports features like Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming, and USB ports for charging and connecting devices. The Sentra SV is also known for its spacious interior, offering ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The trunk provides a decent amount of cargo space, making it practical for everyday use. The car's overall design emphasizes comfort, with a focus on ride quality that absorbs bumps and provides a pleasant driving experience. The combination of fuel efficiency, a comfortable interior, and a competitive price makes the 2017 Nissan Sentra SV a noteworthy option in its class.
Performance and Driving Experience
When you get behind the wheel of the 2017 Nissan Sentra SV, what can you expect? The driving experience is primarily geared towards comfort and efficiency. The 1.8-liter engine provides adequate power for daily driving tasks like commuting and running errands. It's not designed to be a performance car, but rather a practical and reliable vehicle. The CVT, while sometimes criticized for its feel, works effectively in the Sentra to deliver smooth and consistent acceleration. The suspension is tuned for a comfortable ride, which means it absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road well. This makes the Sentra SV a pleasant choice for longer journeys and for navigating city streets. The steering is light and easy, making it simple to maneuver in tight spaces and during parking. This feature is particularly helpful for urban drivers. The Sentra's handling is predictable and stable, providing confidence in various driving conditions. It’s not particularly sporty, but it offers a composed and controlled feel on the road. The car's braking system is responsive and provides adequate stopping power. Fuel economy is one of the Sentra's strong suits, with excellent numbers for its class. This is a significant advantage, especially with fluctuating gas prices. The overall driving experience is user-friendly, focusing on ease of use and comfort. This makes it an ideal choice for drivers who prioritize a relaxing and stress-free commute. Compared to sportier compact sedans, the Sentra SV is more focused on delivering a comfortable and efficient ride, making it an excellent choice for everyday driving needs.
Engine and Transmission
The heart of the 2017 Nissan Sentra SV is its 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, which delivers a balance of power and efficiency. This engine produces a respectable amount of horsepower for its class, making it suitable for city driving and highway cruising. The engine's design prioritizes fuel efficiency, which is a major selling point for many drivers. This design helps keep operating costs down. Paired with this engine is a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The CVT is designed to provide smooth acceleration by eliminating the traditional gear shifts found in conventional automatic transmissions. This feature contributes to the car's overall fuel economy, helping the Sentra achieve impressive miles per gallon figures. While some drivers may not prefer the feel of a CVT, its operation in the Sentra is generally well-regarded, providing a smooth and responsive experience. The combination of the engine and transmission results in a car that is easy to drive and economical to own. The engine's performance characteristics are tailored for everyday usability, focusing on delivering adequate power without sacrificing fuel efficiency. The transmission’s smooth operation enhances the overall driving experience, making it comfortable for both short trips and longer journeys. The engine and transmission work together to offer a driving experience that is practical, efficient, and user-friendly, reflecting Nissan's focus on providing a well-rounded and reliable vehicle in the compact sedan segment. The engineering choices reflect a commitment to providing a balanced blend of performance and economy.
Interior and Technology
Stepping inside the 2017 Nissan Sentra SV, you're greeted with a cabin designed for comfort and practicality. The interior materials are generally of good quality for its class, with soft-touch surfaces in key areas enhancing the overall feel. The seats are well-contoured and offer good support, making long drives more comfortable. The SV trim typically includes upgraded cloth upholstery, adding to the aesthetic appeal and comfort. The layout of the dashboard and controls is user-friendly, with everything within easy reach. The infotainment system is a key feature in the Sentra SV, often featuring a 5-inch color display. This display provides access to various functions, including audio controls, phone connectivity via Bluetooth, and vehicle settings. The system is designed to be intuitive, making it easy for drivers to navigate and use. Technology features often include USB ports for charging devices and connecting to the infotainment system. This is a must-have for modern drivers who rely on their devices. The Sentra SV may also include options like a rearview camera, which significantly aids in parking and maneuvering. Safety features are an important aspect of the car's interior. In terms of space, the Sentra offers a generous amount of legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. This makes it a comfortable choice for families and those who frequently transport passengers. The trunk provides ample cargo space, making it practical for everyday use and longer trips. The overall interior design of the 2017 Nissan Sentra SV focuses on providing a comfortable, functional, and user-friendly environment. It balances comfort and practicality, making it an appealing option in the compact sedan market.
Infotainment System and Features
The infotainment system in the 2017 Nissan Sentra SV is a central hub for entertainment, information, and connectivity. Typically, the SV trim features a 5-inch color display, offering a clear and accessible interface for various functions. The system includes features such as Bluetooth connectivity, enabling hands-free calling and audio streaming from smartphones. This enhances safety and convenience while driving. USB ports are usually included, allowing for device charging and connectivity. This is especially important for staying connected on the go. The infotainment system also provides access to audio controls, including radio stations and media playback options. The interface is designed to be user-friendly, making it easy for drivers to navigate and control the system. The system's integration with the car's other features enhances the overall driving experience. The display shows essential information, and it can sometimes include options for navigation. The system’s functionality includes vehicle settings, allowing drivers to customize certain car features. Overall, the infotainment system in the 2017 Nissan Sentra SV is a well-designed component that contributes to a more enjoyable and connected driving experience. It provides the essential features that modern drivers expect, all within a user-friendly and accessible interface. The thoughtful design ensures that drivers can easily access the features they need without being distracted from the road.
Safety Features
Safety is a crucial consideration when evaluating any vehicle, and the 2017 Nissan Sentra SV comes equipped with a range of features designed to protect occupants. Standard safety features typically include airbags throughout the cabin, providing protection in the event of a collision. Antilock brakes (ABS) are standard, helping drivers maintain control during emergency braking situations. Electronic stability control (ESC) is also included, which helps to prevent loss of control by applying brakes to individual wheels. A rearview camera is often included, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces. This is especially helpful in urban environments. The Sentra SV might also offer optional advanced safety features. These could include blind-spot monitoring, which alerts drivers to vehicles in their blind spots, and rear cross-traffic alert, which warns drivers of approaching vehicles when reversing. Certain models may include advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) to enhance safety further. These features work together to create a comprehensive safety package, increasing protection and peace of mind for drivers and passengers. The Sentra's safety features are designed to meet or exceed industry standards, ensuring that it provides a safe driving experience. Nissan has focused on integrating these technologies to enhance overall road safety, making the 2017 Nissan Sentra SV a reliable and secure choice for drivers. These safety measures work together to create a comprehensive safety package, making the Sentra SV a reliable and secure choice.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The 2017 Nissan Sentra offers several trim levels, each with its own set of features and pricing. The SV trim, as we’ve discussed, sits in the middle of the range, offering a balance of features and value. Other available trim levels typically include a base model, which focuses on affordability, and higher trims, which offer more advanced features and technology. Pricing varies depending on the trim level and any optional packages. The base model is generally the most affordable, making it accessible for budget-conscious buyers. The SV trim provides a step up in features without a significant increase in price, making it a popular choice. Higher trims often include more luxurious features, advanced technology, and sometimes more powerful engines, leading to a higher price point. When considering pricing, it's important to compare the features offered by each trim level to determine which one best suits your needs and budget. Factors such as fuel efficiency, safety features, and the inclusion of technology can significantly impact the overall value proposition. Also, be sure to take into account the vehicle's condition, mileage, and any added options. Comparing prices with similar vehicles from other manufacturers in the same class will help you make an informed decision. The 2017 Nissan Sentra's trim levels are designed to offer a range of options, allowing potential buyers to select a vehicle that meets their specific requirements and financial considerations. Understanding the differences between these trim levels helps ensure that buyers select the version of the Sentra that best meets their needs and offers the best value for their money. Prices will vary depending on the vehicle's condition, mileage, and any optional features.
Pros and Cons
Let's break down the pros and cons of the 2017 Nissan Sentra SV to help you make a more informed decision. Pros: The Sentra SV generally offers good fuel efficiency, making it cost-effective for daily commutes and long trips. It usually provides a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and road imperfections well. Its interior is known for offering ample space for both passengers and cargo. The SV trim level typically includes a decent array of features at a competitive price point. The infotainment system is user-friendly and easy to navigate. The car has a reputation for reliability. Cons: Some drivers may find the 1.8-liter engine to be underpowered, especially when accelerating onto highways. The CVT, while fuel-efficient, may not appeal to all drivers due to its feel. The design, while functional, may not be the most exciting in its class. Higher trims can get pricey, edging towards the cost of more premium competitors. Overall, the 2017 Nissan Sentra SV provides a balanced package, making it an attractive choice for many. Considering the pros and cons will help you assess whether it aligns with your specific needs and preferences. Ultimately, it’s a question of whether the features, performance, and value meet your personal driving requirements.
Competitors
The 2017 Nissan Sentra SV competes with several other compact sedans in the market. Some of the notable competitors include the Honda Civic, which is often praised for its sporty handling and modern features. The Toyota Corolla is another strong contender, known for its reliability and excellent resale value. The Mazda3 is also a key competitor, known for its stylish design and engaging driving experience. Other competitors include the Hyundai Elantra, offering a lot of features for its price, and the Ford Focus, offering a variety of engine options. When considering competitors, it’s important to compare features, performance, and pricing. Each car has its own strengths and weaknesses. The Honda Civic often stands out for its performance and advanced technology. The Toyota Corolla typically shines in terms of reliability. The Mazda3 is often praised for its stylish design and driving dynamics. The Hyundai Elantra often offers a long list of features for the money. The Ford Focus offers a range of engine options. Evaluating these competitors alongside the 2017 Nissan Sentra SV will help you determine which vehicle best suits your needs. Researching and comparing these options is crucial for making a well-informed decision. Consider factors such as fuel economy, safety features, and interior comfort when evaluating these vehicles. Test driving each of them is the best way to determine which car you prefer.
Conclusion: Is the 2017 Nissan Sentra SV a Good Buy?
So, is the 2017 Nissan Sentra SV still a good buy? The answer depends on your priorities. If you are looking for a fuel-efficient, comfortable, and reliable compact sedan, the Sentra SV is definitely worth considering. It offers a good balance of features, space, and value. Its strengths lie in its practicality, comfortable ride, and user-friendly features. While it may not be the sportiest or most exciting car in its class, it excels as an everyday driver. Its competitive pricing and fuel efficiency make it an attractive option, especially for budget-conscious buyers. However, if you prioritize performance, you might find the engine a bit underpowered. Those seeking a more engaging driving experience might want to look at competitors with sportier handling. Overall, the 2017 Nissan Sentra SV remains a solid choice. It offers a well-rounded package that appeals to a wide range of drivers. The car remains a viable choice, particularly if you are seeking a reliable and practical car. Always assess your personal needs and preferences when making a decision. If you value comfort, fuel efficiency, and a well-equipped interior, the 2017 Nissan Sentra SV could be the perfect fit for you. Before purchasing, consider factors like the car's condition, mileage, and maintenance history. Take the time to test drive the car to see if it meets your driving preferences. By carefully considering all these factors, you can determine if the 2017 Nissan Sentra SV is the right car for you.