2005 Nissan Sentra Trims and Specs

An economy car in the truest sense, the 2005 Nissan Sentra 1.8 comes minimally equipped, but the front-wheel drive compact sedan serves as a good commuter car or first-time buy for people looking to save money. The 24/38 mpg helps a lot too. A 1.8-liter, 126-hp DOHC I4 engine sits under the hood, mated to a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. The 2005 Sentra 1.8 sits on 15-inch wheels, and features front disc and rear drum brakes, and dual front airbags. ABS brakes and side impact bags are not offered.

Intermittent wipers, a tilt steering wheel, and rear defrost are about the only convenience features. Air conditioning and a CD player are available as options, and a Sport Package adds 16-inch wheels, leather trim, and a rear spoiler. Though the sedan seats four, the backseat is somewhat cramped. Most drivers buy the 2005 Nissan Sentra 1.8 for its affordability, and they recommend getting one with the special options. Handling is smooth and drivers report few problems.

The 2005 Nissan Sentra 1.8 S is a front-wheel drive economy sedan one step up from the base model. Though it comes with the same 126-hp, 1.8-liter DOHC I4 engine and choice of a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic, it adds quite a few standard features that are only options or not even available on the base. This year, the 2005 Sentra 1.8 S gets cruise control and a trip computer added to its standard equipment, which already includes power windows, locks, and mirrors, intermittent wipers, keyless entry, air conditioning, a CD player, split-folding rear seats, and a tachometer.

Dual front airbags are standard, contributing to the 4-star ratings for frontal impact, but the 2005 Sentra 1.8 S only gets two stars for side impact. Front-side airbags are optional, along with ABS brakes, foglights, and larger 16-inch alloy wheels. Some personal extras include leather trim, a security system, satellite radio, and a sunroof. A rear spoiler can also be added for a sportier exterior. A kicky I4 engine, reliability, and great savings thanks to a 28/35 mpg are highlights for owners. Lowlights are a small backseat and the placement of the cupholders in front of the CD player.

A standard rear spoiler, foglights, and 16-inch alloy wheels let other drivers know that the 2005 Nissan Sentra SE-R is no ordinary economy compact sedan. The front-wheel drive, four-passenger car is easy on gas, but a lot more fun to drive than an economy car should be. A 2.5-liter, 165-hp, DOHC I4 engine and 4-speed automatic boost the power from the 1.8 models, and a stiffer suspension improves handling. Leather interior trim carries the sporty theme inside as well.

Otherwise, the 2005 Sentra SE-R is like the 1.8 S in terms of features. These include a trip computer, tachometer, CD player, full power setup, cruise control, dual front airbags, overhead and front consoles, and split-folding rear seats that open onto a 12 cubic foot trunk. Four-wheel disc brakes (also different than the 1.8) can be supplemented with ABS. Other add-ons include front-side airbags, a sunroof, satellite radio, and a security system. A fun and sporty ride at an affordable price is what attracts owners to the 2005 Sentra SE-R. Though it sacrifices some gas mileage for the more powerful engine, it still gets a decent 23/28. Some owners would like a sportier look.

Masquerading as a budget compact sedan, the front-wheel drive 2005 Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V provides quite a bit of torque action, extra power, and a sportier look and feel behind the wheel. A sports suspension can feel rougher, but the 175-hp and 180 lb-ft of torque from the 2.5-liter DOHC I4 engine pleases many owners. A 4-speed auto tran is available, but the 2005 Sentra SE-R Spec V comes standard with a 6-speed manual. It also rides on larger 17-inch alloy wheels, features Brembo brakes, sport seats, a limited slip differential, foglights, and a rear spoiler.

Lest you forget, it's also an economic commuter car, and is loaded nicely with full power features, a CD player, leather trim, a tachometer, trip computer, intermittent wipers, split-folding rear seats, and the requisite storage compartments and cupholders. Front-side airbags and ABS brakes supplement the dual front bags and 4-wheel disc brakes respectively. Other options include a sunroof, a new satellite radio, and a security system. Drivers say the 2005 Sentra SE-R Spec V is speedy, with good acceleration, and nice handling, despite the large torque steer. The fun ride isn't hurt by the decreased gas mileage, which still ranges around 23/30. A cramped backseat and annoying cupholder placement are minor gripes.