2018 Nissan Sentra SV: Review, Features, & More

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2018 Nissan Sentra SV: Review, Features, & More

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2018 Nissan Sentra SV. This compact sedan has been a popular choice for years, and the 2018 model offers a compelling blend of fuel efficiency, features, and affordability. Whether you're a first-time buyer, a commuter, or just looking for a reliable car, the Sentra SV deserves a closer look. Let's get started!

Overview of the 2018 Nissan Sentra SV

The 2018 Nissan Sentra SV sits comfortably in the competitive compact car segment. It builds upon the base Sentra S model by adding a host of desirable features that enhance comfort, convenience, and technology. Think of it as the sweet spot in the Sentra lineup, offering more than the entry-level trim without breaking the bank. The Sentra SV is powered by a fuel-efficient 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that provides adequate power for daily driving. It's paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that prioritizes fuel economy. Inside, you'll find a spacious cabin with comfortable seating for five passengers. The SV trim adds features like a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and more, making it a well-rounded package for the modern driver. In terms of safety, the 2018 Sentra SV comes standard with a suite of airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. Higher trims and optional packages offer even more advanced safety features. Ultimately, the 2018 Nissan Sentra SV aims to deliver a practical and enjoyable driving experience at an affordable price point.

Key Features and Specifications

When you're checking out the 2018 Nissan Sentra SV, it's essential to know exactly what you're getting. This section breaks down the key features and specifications that make this car stand out. Let's start with the engine. Under the hood, you'll find a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that produces around 130 horsepower. While it's not a powerhouse, it provides sufficient pep for everyday driving and excels in fuel economy, often achieving upwards of 37 MPG on the highway. The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) contributes to this efficiency, offering smooth and seamless gear changes. Moving inside the cabin, the SV trim boasts a 5-inch touchscreen display for the infotainment system. This system includes features like Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming, a USB port for charging and media playback, and a rearview camera for added safety when backing up. Comfort features are also a highlight, with premium cloth seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel adding a touch of luxury. On the exterior, the Sentra SV distinguishes itself with features like alloy wheels, heated outside mirrors, and body-colored accents. Safety is paramount, and the SV comes standard with features like automatic emergency braking, intelligent cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. These features work together to provide a safer and more confident driving experience. Overall, the 2018 Nissan Sentra SV offers a well-rounded package of features and specifications that make it a compelling choice in the compact car segment.

Interior and Technology

The interior and technology of the 2018 Nissan Sentra SV are designed to provide a comfortable and connected driving experience. Stepping inside, you'll immediately notice the spaciousness of the cabin, especially for a compact car. The seats are upholstered in a premium cloth material that feels both durable and comfortable, making long drives more enjoyable. The driver's seat is adjustable in multiple ways, allowing you to find the perfect driving position. The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, with controls that are easy to reach and operate. The centerpiece of the interior is the 5-inch touchscreen display, which houses the infotainment system. While it's not the largest or most advanced system on the market, it offers essential features like Bluetooth connectivity, USB input, and a rearview camera. Bluetooth allows you to connect your smartphone for hands-free calling and audio streaming, while the USB port lets you charge your devices and play music. The rearview camera provides a clear view of what's behind you when backing up, enhancing safety and convenience. Other notable interior features include dual-zone automatic climate control, which allows you and your passenger to set different temperatures, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, which adds a touch of luxury. The Sentra SV also comes standard with a six-speaker audio system that delivers decent sound quality for your favorite music. Overall, the interior and technology of the 2018 Nissan Sentra SV strike a good balance between comfort, convenience, and functionality, making it a pleasant place to spend time on the road.

Driving Experience

Behind the wheel, the 2018 Nissan Sentra SV delivers a smooth and composed driving experience that's well-suited for daily commutes and longer road trips. The 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine provides adequate power for most driving situations, although it's not going to win any races. Acceleration is decent, and the CVT transmission does a good job of keeping the engine in its optimal power range. The ride quality is comfortable, thanks to the well-tuned suspension that absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in city traffic and parking lots. One of the standout features of the Sentra SV is its fuel efficiency. The CVT transmission helps the engine achieve impressive MPG figures, especially on the highway. This makes it an ideal choice for drivers who want to save money on gas. While the Sentra SV is not a sporty car, it handles reasonably well in corners. The body roll is minimal, and the car feels stable and planted. The brakes are also responsive and provide good stopping power. Overall, the driving experience of the 2018 Nissan Sentra SV is characterized by its smoothness, comfort, and fuel efficiency. It's a car that's designed to make your daily driving as easy and enjoyable as possible. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or taking a road trip, the Sentra SV is a reliable and capable companion.

Safety Features

When it comes to safety, the 2018 Nissan Sentra SV offers a comprehensive suite of features designed to protect you and your passengers. Standard safety equipment includes a full array of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags, which provide protection in the event of a collision. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) are also standard, helping to prevent wheel lockup and maintain steering control during hard braking. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is another key safety feature, which helps to prevent skidding and maintain stability on slippery surfaces. In addition to these standard features, the Sentra SV also comes with several advanced safety technologies. Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes to help avoid or mitigate an accident. Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) alerts you when there's a vehicle in your blind spot, making it safer to change lanes. Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space. Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC) maintains a set distance from the vehicle in front of you, automatically adjusting your speed to keep pace. These advanced safety features work together to provide a higher level of protection and peace of mind. The 2018 Nissan Sentra SV has also performed well in government and independent crash tests, earning good ratings for its overall safety performance. With its comprehensive suite of safety features and strong crash test results, the Sentra SV is a safe and reliable choice for drivers and families.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is a major consideration for many car buyers, and the 2018 Nissan Sentra SV excels in this area. Thanks to its efficient 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), the Sentra SV achieves impressive MPG figures in both city and highway driving. According to EPA estimates, the Sentra SV gets around 29 MPG in the city and 37 MPG on the highway. These numbers are competitive for the compact car segment and make the Sentra SV an attractive choice for drivers who want to save money on gas. In real-world driving, many owners report even better fuel economy than the EPA estimates. The CVT transmission plays a key role in maximizing fuel efficiency. It continuously adjusts the gear ratio to keep the engine in its optimal power range, resulting in smoother acceleration and better MPG. The Sentra SV also features an Eco mode, which further optimizes fuel efficiency by adjusting the engine and transmission settings. When engaged, Eco mode can help you save even more gas, especially during city driving. In addition to its fuel-efficient engine and transmission, the Sentra SV also benefits from its lightweight design. The car is relatively light compared to other compact cars, which helps to improve fuel economy. Overall, the 2018 Nissan Sentra SV is a fuel-efficient car that can save you money at the pump. Its impressive MPG figures, combined with its affordable price and comfortable interior, make it a compelling choice for budget-conscious drivers.

Pricing and Value

When evaluating the 2018 Nissan Sentra SV, pricing and value are key factors to consider. The Sentra SV is known for offering a lot of features for the money, making it a great value proposition in the compact car segment. When new, the 2018 Sentra SV had a starting MSRP of around $19,000. However, prices can vary depending on location, options, and incentives. Today, you can find used 2018 Sentra SV models for even less, making them an even more attractive value. Compared to its competitors, the Sentra SV offers a similar level of features and performance at a lower price point. This makes it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers who don't want to compromise on quality or features. The SV trim adds several desirable features over the base Sentra S model, including a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and more. These features enhance comfort, convenience, and safety, making the SV trim a worthwhile upgrade. In addition to its affordable price, the Sentra SV also offers good long-term value. Its reliable engine and durable construction mean that it can last for many years with proper maintenance. The car also holds its value relatively well over time, which is important if you plan to resell it in the future. Overall, the 2018 Nissan Sentra SV offers excellent pricing and value. Its affordable price, generous features, and long-term reliability make it a smart choice for drivers who want a practical and economical car.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced perspective, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2018 Nissan Sentra SV:

Pros:

  • Fuel Efficiency: Excellent gas mileage, saving you money on fuel costs.
  • Spacious Interior: Comfortable and roomy cabin for passengers and cargo.
  • User-Friendly Technology: Easy-to-use infotainment system with essential features.
  • Smooth Ride: Comfortable and composed driving experience.
  • Affordable Price: Competitive pricing compared to other compact sedans.
  • Standard Safety Features: Equipped with essential safety technologies for peace of mind.

Cons:

  • Engine Performance: The engine can feel underpowered, especially when accelerating or climbing hills.
  • CVT Transmission: Some drivers may not like the feel of the CVT transmission.
  • Basic Infotainment System: The infotainment system lacks some of the more advanced features found in newer cars.
  • Generic Styling: The exterior styling is somewhat bland and uninspired.
  • Road Noise: Some road noise can be heard inside the cabin at higher speeds.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final verdict on the 2018 Nissan Sentra SV? Overall, this compact sedan offers a compelling blend of fuel efficiency, features, and affordability. It's a great choice for first-time buyers, commuters, and anyone looking for a reliable and economical car. While it may not be the most exciting car on the road, it excels in practicality and value. The Sentra SV offers a spacious interior, a comfortable ride, and a user-friendly infotainment system. It's also packed with standard safety features, giving you peace of mind on the road. The main drawbacks are its somewhat underwhelming engine performance and basic styling. However, if you're prioritizing fuel efficiency, affordability, and reliability, the 2018 Nissan Sentra SV is definitely worth considering. It's a well-rounded package that delivers on its promises. Whether you're driving to work, running errands, or taking a road trip, the Sentra SV is a capable and dependable companion. So, if you're in the market for a compact sedan, be sure to check out the 2018 Nissan Sentra SV. You might be surprised at how much it has to offer.