It’s been around five years since Nissan opted out of the compact car segment here in the Philippines, but that doesn’t mean that they’re out of it altogether elsewhere in the world. Case in point is the ninth-generation Nissan Sentra (fifth-generation Sylphy) which has just been launched.
Carrying the B19 chassis code, all-new Sentra/Sylphy measures in at 4,656 mm in length, 1,825 mm in width, and 1,448 mm in height. While slightly longer than before, its wheelbase—at 2,712 mm—is slightly shorter than the outgoing model. These proportions enabled designers to imbue it with a sharper, more youthful styling headlined by the trademark V-motion grille now made to extend into its lighting elements. Elsewhere, the surfacing lends it a lower stance, while the shaping of the trunk and rear fenders help control airflow. Other aero-optimized elements include the flat floor undercover, reduced wheel opening area, and the side mirror shape/placement.
Oh, and speaking of lighting, the slim LED headlights have been made to blend into the Sentra/Sylphy’s nose with the LED signature appearing black when turned off. What’s more, the lights play a welcome pattern when the car’s unlocked, something typically seen in Chinese cars of late.
Inside, the Sentra goes all-in on tech with the compact segment’s first-ever touch-sensitive climate control panel. It also comes with dual 12.3-inch displays that’s two times brighter compared to the current display. The center screen itself showcases a 360-degree camera with moving object detection. Other standard features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and USB Type C ports. A sunroof, 64-color ambient lighting, wireless charger, and an 8-speaker Bose sound system are some of the available features on higher trim models.
As for powertrain, the Sentra continues with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine (MR20DD) producing 151 horsepower and 198 Nm of torque. This version doesn’t have any sort of electrification, but it does have an idle start/stop system to help it save fuel. In other markets, a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder (HR16DE) is available, and this one makes 137 horsepower and 158 Nm of torque. Either way, it’s connected to Nissan’s Xtronic CVT. The CVT has been retuned to deliver a “more natural, smooth acceleration.” Higher grade models feature a new Sport mode which re-calibrates not just the transmission, but the steering and throttle as well.
In terms of chassis, the Sentra continues with front independent MacPherson Struts and rear multi-links. That said, reinforcements have been made to give it six percent higher rigidity. New shock absorber valving helps better mute impact harshness from bumps. Meanwhile, the steering has an enlarged dynamic damper that effectively reduces road vibrations, ensuring a more composed driving experience.
For 2026, the Sentra is available in the sporty SR guise, at least in the United States. Unfortunately, it doesn’t get additional oomph. Instead, it’s more of a styling exercise with a two-tone roof, unique front fascia, dark chrome elements, specific rear bumpers and skirts, rear spoiler, and 18-inch wheels.
As for safety, the Sentra now adds Blind Spot Intervention to its host of ProPilot Assist tech. Other parts of the safety suite include Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Prevention, High Beam Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition, and more.

















Won't Nissan Ph bring this in?
ReplyDeleteNo electrification for a 2026 model?
ReplyDeleteI believe it will be made in Mexico. If that's the case, hard to bring it to the Philippines.
ReplyDeleteChina too, they could import from there hehehe :P
DeleteNothing special.
ReplyDeleteGood products. Lousy Philippine management.
ReplyDeleteHoping they will release it here in the PH! I really love the sleek design
ReplyDelete