NISSAN Sentra 2006-2012 Photos, engines & full specs

The sixth generation of the Sentra nameplate appeared on the market in 2006 at the North American International Auto Show.

By 2006, Nissan's products were already affected by Renault's decisions, which happened with the Sentra as well. While the fifth generation was a blast to drive and a sporty compact sedan that was also budget-friendly, the sixth generation was more of an econobox. It shared its platform with the European Renault Megane sedan, which was not great, apart from the production costs.

In terms of size, it was marginally longer than a compact-sized vehicle. Still, the EPA considered it a mid-size vehicle due to its interior space. That was achieved due to the higher, rounded roofline arched and stretched to the short trunk lid. At the front, the swept-back, vertical headlights looked like there was a battle between the team that made the grille and those who penned the lamps, and the latter lost. The clear taillights resembled the tuning-inspired trend at the back but without the same sporty look.

Inside, the dashboard was designed using Nissan details, but the overall layout was also common to its European sibling. That was neither good nor bad since it was penned for practicality and, of course, for lower production costs. These ideas somehow helped the Japanese brand survive during the world's financial crisis that started in 2007. But there was no longer that sporty feeling and high-bolstered bucket seats. Just a pair of regular, cheaper ones. At the back, the flat bench was good enough for three passengers.

Under the hood, the Sentra came with a choice of two engines, with an enhanced 2.5-liter version over its predecessor, but it was also heavier.