What To Know
- The Versa’s primary focus is on fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway.
- The Sentra’s performance is more spirited than the Versa’s, but it sacrifices some fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 29 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway.
- If you’re looking for a basic and fuel-efficient car at an affordable price, the Versa is a solid option.
The Nissan Versa and Sentra, two popular compact sedans from the Japanese automaker, offer distinct options for budget-minded car buyers. With their 2017 iterations, both models underwent significant updates, making it crucial to delve into their similarities and differences to determine the best choice for your needs.
Exterior Design: Subtle Differences, Distinct Personalities
The 2017 Nissan Versa presents a refreshed exterior with a revised front fascia, new LED headlights, and a more aggressive grille. Its overall silhouette remains compact and functional, with a slightly sloping roofline and a spacious trunk.
In contrast, the 2017 Nissan Sentra boasts a more upscale and sporty appearance. It features a V-motion grille, LED daytime running lights, and a distinctive boomerang-shaped taillight design. The Sentra’s longer wheelbase and lower stance give it a more athletic stance.
Interior Space and Comfort: Room for All, but Not Equal
When it comes to interior space, the Nissan Versa offers ample room for passengers. The front seats provide good visibility and legroom, while the rear seats can comfortably accommodate adults. However, the Versa’s interior materials feel somewhat basic and lack the refinement of more expensive models.
The Nissan Sentra excels in interior comfort and space. Its cabin is roomier than the Versa’s, with more legroom and headroom in both the front and rear. The materials used are of higher quality, and the overall ambiance is more upscale and luxurious.
Powertrain and Performance: Fuel Efficiency vs. Power
Under the hood, the 2017 Nissan Versa comes equipped with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 109 horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a five-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Versa’s primary focus is on fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway.
The 2017 Nissan Sentra offers a more powerful 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 130 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to a six-speed manual or a CVT. The Sentra’s performance is more spirited than the Versa’s, but it sacrifices some fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 29 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway.
Features and Technology: Essentials vs. Enhancements
In terms of features, the 2017 Nissan Versa comes standard with a rearview camera, a five-inch touchscreen display, and Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trim levels add features such as a navigation system, a Bose audio system, and heated front seats.
The 2017 Nissan Sentra offers a more comprehensive range of features. The base model includes a 7-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration. The Sentra also offers advanced safety features such as lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.
Safety and Reliability: Peace of Mind in Both Models
Both the 2017 Nissan Versa and Sentra received good safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Versa earned a four-star overall safety rating, while the Sentra received a five-star overall safety rating.
In terms of reliability, both models have a solid track record. J.D. Power and Associates awarded the Versa a “Good” rating for reliability, while the Sentra received a “Very Good” rating.
Price and Value: Finding the Right Fit for Your Budget
The 2017 Nissan Versa has a starting price of $12,790. The Sentra, on the other hand, starts at $17,990. While the Versa is significantly cheaper, the Sentra offers more features, a more powerful engine, and a more refined interior.
Ultimately, the best choice between the Nissan Versa and Sentra depends on your individual needs and budget. If you’re looking for a basic and fuel-efficient car at an affordable price, the Versa is a solid option. However, if you prioritize comfort, performance, and features, the Sentra is worth considering despite its higher price.
Final Note: Making an Informed Decision
The 2017 Nissan Versa and Sentra offer distinct choices for value-conscious car buyers. The Versa is an excellent choice for those seeking a budget-friendly and fuel-efficient option. The Sentra, on the other hand, provides a more upscale and feature-rich experience with a slightly higher price tag. By carefully weighing the differences between these two models, you can make an informed decision that best aligns with your needs and preferences.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Which model has the best fuel economy?
A: The 2017 Nissan Versa has better fuel economy than the Sentra, with an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway.
Q: Which model has more interior space?
A: The 2017 Nissan Sentra has more interior space than the Versa, with more legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats.
Q: Which model offers more advanced safety features?
A: The 2017 Nissan Sentra offers more advanced safety features than the Versa, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.