When making any type of long-term purchase, savvy shoppers tend to look around before committing. Why is this? Because if you’re going to be using something daily, you obviously need to enjoy it. Some consumers initially assume that a 2019 Nissan Sentra is a good buy based on its fuel economy and affordable price. However, many Sentra owners are met with a strong case of remorse after the honeymoon phase ends.

The 2019 Nissan Sentra is the final entry of a problematic generation of the compact car, which lasted from the 2013-19 model years. The manufacturer threw considerable effort behind a Sentra redesign for its 2020 lineup. But it remains to be seen if this tactic can resurrect the Sentra in the eyes of past buyers.

According to Consumer Reports, the 2019 Nissan Sentra garnered very few owners who would re-purchase the car if given a choice. In fact, only 29% of 2019 Sentra owners said they would rebuy the model, which is a much lower figure than other vehicles in its class. The Toyota Corolla came in second-to-last in this category with a 65% satisfaction rating.

Let’s take a closer look at exactly where the 2019 Nissan Sentra missed the mark for car owners.

Critics are underwhelmed

Those considering a used Sentra should analyze its flaws before making a final decision. Consumer Reports notes that the 2019 Nissan Sentra delivers a lackluster driving experience compared to other compact cars. A weak, 124-hp 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine powers the 2019 Sentra. However, it returns a healthy 32 MPG city/highway combined when equipped with the available continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Meanwhile, an available 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine breathes some life into this otherwise boring car. However, this powerplant is only offered on the SR Turbo and Nismo trim level, which come at a much higher price than most would be willing to pay. 

Additionally, Consumer Reports criticized the 2019 Nissan Sentra driver’s seat, which is cramped and uncomfortable. In fact, its interior is pretty underwhelming as a whole, and it makes the redesigned 2020 Sentra look luxurious in comparison.

The compact car’s rear seats are surprisingly roomy, but that won’t be of much use to most commuters. Disappointingly, its trunk is relatively small, offering only 15 cubic feet of room. The 2019 Sentra doesn’t offer too much technology, either. It comes standard with a seven-inch touchscreen, a rearview camera, Bluetooth, a USB port, and a four-speaker sound system. However, you’ll have to pay extra for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as any driver-assistance technologies.

2019 Nissan Sentra owners don’t inspire hope, either

Sometimes it’s best to hear complaints straight from the horse’s mouth. 2019 Nissan Sentra owners left some concerning reviews on Kelley Blue Book. Some of these drivers echoed Consumer Report’s issues with front-seat comfort and slow acceleration. 

One KBB reviewer described their frustration with the car’s performance, stating, “Just to go over hills, I feel like you need to floor it. It’s ridiculous. I haven’t even had this car for two months, and I am already thinking about returning the car and getting an SUV.”

However, other owners ran into concerning problems that brings the 2019 Nissan Sentra’s long-term reliability into question. Several drivers had issues with the car’s transmission, while others criticized some of the in-car electronics.

The final verdict

Don’t settle for a commuter car that just gets you from Point A to Point B. More exciting and upscale compact sedans on the used car market are just as affordable as the 2019 Nissan Sentra. Meanwhile, those who are committed to the Nissan brand would be better off paying a little extra for a much-improved 2020 or 2021 Nissan Sentra.