Nissan Sentra

The five-seat Sentra sits between the subcompact Versa and the midsize Altima in Nissan's sedan lineup. Regular Sentras come in base 2.0, 2.0 S, 2.0 SR and 2.0 SL trim levels. The Sentra is an alternative to the likes of the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla and Hyundai Elantra.

The Sentra SE-R and SE-R Spec V are Nissan's representatives in the hotly contested sporty compact segment, and they compete against the Mazdaspeed3 and Honda Civic Si.

The Sentra SE-R and SE-R Spec V are sporty variants with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder. The SE-R is built for mainstream consumers who want a sportier feel; the Spec V is geared toward the enthusiast crowd.

Both SE-Rs are distinguished from regular Sentras by exterior enhancements, including different nose and tail treatments, side sill extensions and a rear spoiler. The SE-R boasts numerous interior upgrades, including an oil pressure gauge, lateral g-force meter and cloth sport seats embroidered with the SE-R designation. The SE-R Spec V adds red seat belts.