2001 Nissan Sentra Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
A stylish new Sentra debuted last year, so there are few changes for the 2001 Nissan Sentra. Newly upgraded to the compact category,...
A stylish new Sentra debuted last year, so there are few changes for the 2001 Nissan Sentra. Newly upgraded to the compact category, thanks to a 6-inch increase in overall length, the Sentra boasts a lot of standard convenience and safety features and a sports-oriented version that makes it not your typical economy car. Available in base XE, GXE, and the sporty SE trims, the only addition to the 2001 Sentra is an emergency trunk release. A low-emission version, the CA, is available in California.
A 1.8-liter, 126-hp I4 engine is found in the XE and GXE, while the SE comes with a 2.0-liter I4 tuned to 145-hp. It features a rear spoiler, larger 16-inch wheels, side sills, a stiffer suspension, and large rear disc brakes (the other trims have drum brakes). The CA also has the 1.8 I4, but is rated at 122-hp. Dual front airbags are standard across the line, and side impact bags are optional. ABS brakes are offered on the GXE and SE only. The rear seat would not be a good place to put Shaq, or even Allen Iverson, for that matter, but owners say the seats themselves are comfortable. An optional split-folding rear seat is handy for extra storage, though drivers complain the seats don't fold flat enough. There are handy storage compartments scattered throughout the 2001 Sentra, including one on the dash.
The new 1.8 engine is sufficiently peppy for such a small car, and owners are surprised by the responsive acceleration in the 2001 Sentra. The SE is the most fun to drive, with noticeably better handling, though a somewhat bumpier ride. Both engines are reliable and durable, and the gas mileage is a big draw for budget-conscious buyers. Aside from the rear legroom, most complains focus on mechanical failures. There were a number of recalls for the 2001 Sentra, and drivers report problems with sensor failure, grinding brakes, and door rattling. The Sentra CA had problems with the catalytic converter as well. Overall, Nissan customer service gets low marks from Sentra owners.
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 2001 Nissan Sentra appreciate its reliability, fuel efficiency, and ease of handling. Many drivers find it zippy enough for everyday driving, with a few noting impressive performance given its compact size. However, some have pointed out issues with build quality and interior space, particularly for taller individuals. While it's regarded as a solid daily driver, it's not particularly exciting or powerful compared to other options."
The Nissan Sentra has been in my family since it was new, and I can say it has been a good car. Although having a few normal repairs done on it (brakes, shocks, etc.) it has been pretty reliable. It has decent acceleration at low speeds, but is more slugish on the highway when passing. All in all a good driving experience although not very exciting.
May 30, 2010I owned this car for 5 months and loved every second i was in there. Great sounding engine, Easy to drive and manuever around traffic. Amazing on Gas. Can fit that family of 5!
January 17, 2008We bought this car second hand 5 years ago, so it is now 12 years old. There are 276,000 KM on this little car and apart from new winter and new summer tires we have spent about $3000.00 on it in 5 years. Cannot complain about it. The ride is good, handling is good, it's zippy and we like the looks.
December 11, 2012What owners say
The Nissan Sentra has been in my family since it was new, and I can say it has been a good car. Although having a few normal repairs done on it (brakes, shocks, etc.) it has been pretty reliable. It has decent acceleration at low speeds, but is more slugish on the highway when passing. All in all a good driving experience although not very exciting.
May 30, 2010I owned this car for 5 months and loved every second i was in there. Great sounding engine, Easy to drive and manuever around traffic. Amazing on Gas. Can fit that family of 5!
January 17, 2008We bought this car second hand 5 years ago, so it is now 12 years old. There are 276,000 KM on this little car and apart from new winter and new summer tires we have spent about $3000.00 on it in 5 years. Cannot complain about it. The ride is good, handling is good, it's zippy and we like the looks.
December 11, 2012Performance - For a 4-banger with an automatic, its pretty quick. Can get out of its own way getting onto the freeway. A/C on makes it a little more difficult, but not bad. Build Quality - I have 3 rattles/buzz'. 2 of them are reflections of the car's age (80K miles) but one has been around since the passenger window motor failed after a month of ownership. I think the dealer forgot to put in some foam between two pieces of metal. Only repairs that have been needed that were not recalls or under warranty/wear was the Mass Air Flow sensor. It failed at 79k miles. Appearance - Outside is utilitarian and unremarkable. Mine would look better if my ex would have washed it from time to time. The car is mine now as I have a longer commute and I don't have any payments. Cost of ownership - I average 28mpg with the A/C on. With it off, I average 35. If I am on the freeway, I get 30 with the A/C and 36 without. Fun Factor - I like the little car. It handles pretty decent and I know enough of how little cars like this drive to really push it to its limits. I have shocked more than one "performance car" by passing it on the outside of a 40mph curve, doing close to 65.
August 6, 2008This car has been great and very reliable. Problems with the Mass Air Flow though 2 times. So as soon as car looks affected by humidity, go directly to garage to check Mass Air Flow because it won't improve and will get stock on the streets. Other than that, great car, not expansive to maintain.
August 28, 2014Good car, looks good and runs well. I havent had it long so i cant say much other than very happy so far. Gets great gas millage and can get out of its own way. I have the 5-spd model and the clutch is great but the shifter just feels weird.
September 17, 2008Easy handling. Great Visibility, no blind spot. Easy parking, maneuvering. Good fuel economy. Very reliable and long lasting car with few costs. Maintains value well. Not enough seat space up front for tall guys. Engine is not that powerful, but good for the kind of car and the time. Paint peeling off.
January 10, 2015Inexpensive car that rides well and has nice interior features. Quicker than you might think for a normally-aspirated vehicle. Reliable and safe to drive, will last me for hopefully quite some time.
February 12, 2008mine is 2001 sentra se with 2.0 sr20de motor. what can i say, the sr20 is one of the best 4 cylinder motor out there. i bought mine with 94k miles 2 years ago. now has 154k miles on it.no problem so far except for regular oil change, tires and brakes. and, i always drive it like i stole it. handles great on twisty mountain, redline to almost 7k also feels fun. i know the engine will outlast the car's life.
March 28, 2013It is a great car for the money, it lasts for up to 300,000 miles or more. Great gas mileage. But when something on it needs to be fixed it always seems like I have to spend my whole pay check on it.
September 3, 2014Trims & specs
Base MSRP $15,439 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.0L 145 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 0.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 24 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $12,189 | Seating 5 |
Engine 1.8L 122 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 0.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 26 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $14,039 | Seating 5 |
Engine 1.8L 126 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 0.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 27 | Drivetrain FWD |
