The Nissan Sentra soldiers into 2006 without any significant changes other than the addition of a six-CD changer to the Audio Fanatic package. A new, larger Sentra and a smaller new model will replace this aged econo-sedan for 2007.

Advantages of the 2006 Nissan Sentra:

• SULEV 1.8-liter engine on base and S models
• High-powered 2.5-liter engine on SE-R and Spec V versions
• Quality interior materials
• Competitive pricing

Objections to the 2006 Nissan Sentra:

• Cramped rear seat room
• Dowdy styling
• Archaic rear suspension design

AutoSite's Advice:

Consider the 2006 Nissan Sentra to be an also-ran in the economy car sweepstakes. Despite styling that has been cleaned up (dig that Maxima knockoff grille), this is an innocuous and forgettable ride unless you pop for the sporty SE-R Spec V or your environmentalist leanings dictate that you must drive a vehicle with ultra-low emissions (if this is the case, may we show you a Ford Focus with a PZEV motor?). Add in a lack of rear seat room, and the Nissan Sentra gets lost in a sea of good to excellent competitors such as the Honda Civic, the Ford Focus, the Mazda 3 and the Hyundai Elantra. Look for Nissan to debut an all-new Sentra for the 2007 model year.