For drivers looking for an affordable, fuel-efficient sedan, Nissan’s Versa and Sentra models are two popular options to consider. The Versa and Sentra share some similarities as compact sedans, but also have key differences that may make one model a better choice over the other depending on your needs and preferences.
This article takes an in-depth look at the 2023 Versa and Sentra models to highlight the pros, cons, and key distinguishing features of each vehicle.
| Specs | 2023 Nissan Versa | 2023 Nissan Sentra |
| Base MSRP | $16,625 | $20,335 |
| Engine Options | 1.6L 4-cyl (122 hp) | 2.0L 4-cyl (149 hp) or 1.6L turbo 4-cyl (160 hp) |
| Fuel Economy (CVT) | 32 mpg city/40 hwy | 29 mpg city/39 hwy |
| Safety Ratings | 5-star NHTSA, Good IIHS | 5-star NHTSA, Good IIHS |
| Passenger Volume | 90.9 cu ft | 96.0 cu ft |
| Cargo Volume | 15.0 cu ft | 14.3 cu ft |
| Touchscreen Size | 7″ | 8″ |
| Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Yes | Wireless CarPlay |
| Available Amenities | Heated front seats, WiFi hotspot | Heated front/rear seats, Bose audio |
The Nissan Versa is Nissan’s entry-level compact sedan, offering basic transportation at a budget-friendly price point. Here’s an overview of the 2023 Versa’s key specs and features:
The Versa offers an impressive amount of safety and tech for its low price point. It’s a basic but well-equipped subcompact sedan for getting around economically.
The Sentra is Nissan’s compact sedan, a step above the subcompact Versa. Here are some key details on the 2023 Sentra:
The Sentra delivers more power, technology, and comfort versus the Versa in a stylish compact sedan package. It’s a solid step up for buyers wanting more features.
The Versa is Nissan’s smallest sedan, while the Sentra is larger and roomier:
2023 Nissan Versa
2023 Nissan Sentra
The Sentra is about 5 inches longer and 2 inches wider than the Versa, giving it a noticeable edge in interior passenger space and overall size. But cargo room is fairly close between the two models.
Performance and fuel economy are very similar for the base engines in the Versa and Sentra:
2023 Nissan Versa
2023 Nissan Sentra
The Sentra offers noticeably more horsepower than the Versa with its base 2.0L engine, providing quicker acceleration. But fuel mileage is almost equal between the two models when comparing CVT versions.
For even more performance, the Sentra also offers an optional 1.6L turbocharged engine pushing 160 horsepower. This turbo-4 can reach 0-60 mph in around 7.5 seconds. But opting for this engine does come at the expense of fuel economy.
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Both the 2023 Versa and Sentra come loaded with the latest driver assistance and collision avoidance technologies. Here’s how they compare in safety ratings:
2023 Nissan Versa
2023 Nissan Sentra
The two compacts earn identical scores in crash tests and safety evaluations. Both come standard with features like automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind spot warning, and rear cross traffic alert. Safety-focused buyers can feel secure choosing either model.
Nissan equips both the Versa and Sentra well in terms of interior design, comfort, and technology:
2023 Nissan Versa
2023 Nissan Sentra
The Sentra offers a more premium cabin than the Versa with nicer materials, more advanced tech like wireless smartphone connectivity, and additional amenities like heated rear seats. But the Versa still punches above its weight class for its bargain pricing.
Nissan covers the Versa and Sentra with the same comprehensive warranty package:
No extra coverage comes with choosing the Sentra over the Versa. Both models provide excellent protection against defects and repairs for the first few years of ownership.
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The Versa has a significant price advantage over the Sentra, with almost a $4,000 difference in base MSRP:
2023 Nissan Versa Pricing
2023 Nissan Sentra Pricing
Moving up to the Sentra adds more power, tech, and style versus the Versa. But the Versa still offers great value with an impressive amount of features considering its sub-$20k pricing.
The Sentra is the better overall vehicle with more power, technology, comfort, and interior space compared to the subcompact Versa. But the Versa offers incredible value at its low price point, so it wins for budget-focused buyers.
The Sentra has a couple inches more length and width versus the Versa, translating to noticeably more passenger room and overall size. Total cargo room is close between the two models though.
There are currently no plans for Nissan to discontinue the Versa. The 2023 model year Versa is slated to continue Nissan’s subcompact sedan offering with updated styling and tech.
Yes, Nissan will produce a 2023 model year Versa. It receives minor exterior styling updates like a new grille and headlights. The technology is also updated with standard driving aids across all trims and newly available WiFi hotspot and wireless Apple CarPlay.
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Deciding between the 2023 Versa and Sentra comes down to your budget and feature needs:
Opt for the Versa if:
Choose the Sentra if:
The Versa is ideal for penny pinching buyers that still want excellent safety scores and decent tech in an economical package. The Sentra appeals to shoppers willing to spend more for upgrades across the board while staying budget-friendly versus midsize sedans.
Test drive them both to see if the Sentra’s add-ons justify the extra cost over the bargain-priced Versa for your needs. Either way, you’re getting great value with Nissan’s practical and fuel-efficient sedans.
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