The main goals of the typical Nissan sedan include providing excellent value for money and enough practicality for a family. These vehicles are also popular amongst younger buyers thanks to commendable safety ratings and the fact that certain models cost under $20k. There are quite a few new Nissan cars and sedans to choose from in 2020, so most US shoppers should find something to suit their needs.
These types of autos are often powered by punchy little engines that allow for decent fuel economy figures. One of the most impressive aspects of these cars is their modern cabins, even at lower spec levels.
New Nissan Sedan Models
Picky buyers will be pleased to know that there are a number of trims on Nissan’s sedan list, all ranging in size and luxury levels. It is worth noting that Nissan’s sedan models vary a bit in terms of comfort and convenience according to their individual specs:
- Versa - Marking the entry into the automaker’s range, the Versa is the most affordable variant for sale. It is not going to tickle your fancy if speed is what you desire, given that the 1.6-liter four-pot develops a measly 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft. What it will do is provide reliability and a respectable list of standard features for under $20,000.
- Sentra - While many feel that it doesn’t incite much excitement, it is also one of the contenders in the lineup that offers great bang for your buck. The exterior design is sharply styled, and we dare to say that the Sentra is actually easy on the eyes. You’ll also find it difficult to believe you’re sitting in a car that is just over $20,000 when you’re inside the top-level trim. The interior is fantastic.
- Altima - A popular choice when it comes to midsize 4-door sedans, the Nissan Altima is an alternative to the usual SUV that most opt for. It returns excellent mpg figures of 28/39/32 mpg in base form with FWD equipped.
Characteristics of the Best Nissan Sedans
While each trim level has its own claim to fame, the lineup shares a few similarities with regard to specifications:
- Price - With the entry-level offering starting at an MSRP of just $14,730, it is clear to see that the Japanese manufacturer ensured that affordability was put first. Other products slot comfortably in the low to mid $20k range.
- Dimensions - None of these autos are truly large except for the Maxima, which falls into the full-size category. Most are decently sized but small enough to be maneuverable. All of them come in a 4-door configuration, which is ideal for families since four doors offer a bit more practicality than two.
- Ratings - In reviews from safety organizations, most Nissan cars receive decent ratings. They also score well in durability and reliability, save for the larger Maxima, which falls a little short in some areas.
What to Consider Before Buying
There are plenty of these kinds of cars in the USA with high ratings, but even the best have their flaws:
Pros
- Very affordable
- Great cabins for the price
- Many options to choose from
- Impressive reliability
- Admirable fuel economy figures
Cons
- Competitors have better safety scores
- Not as much space as crossovers that cost the same amount
- Underpowered engines
Prices of new Nissan sedans
Very few break the $30,000 mark, with most variants coming in with very reasonable MSRPs:
Model |
Power |
Engine |
Base Price |
Nissan Altima |
188 hp |
2.5L Inline-4 Gas |
$24,900 |
Nissan Maxima |
300 hp |
3.5L V6 Gas |
$37,840 |
Nissan Sentra |
149 hp |
2.0L Inline-4 Gas |
$19,810 |
Nissan Versa Sedan |
122 hp |
1.6L Inline-4 Gas |
$15,380 |
Nissan Altima Hybrid |
158 hp |
2.5L Inline-4 Hybrid |
$26,800 |
Nissan Sentra NISMO |
188 hp |
1.6L Turbo Inline-4 Gas |
$26,040 |
FAQs
Is it worth purchasing a used option?
If you’re truly set on saving every dollar, then sure. But these vehicles are so affordable straight out of the factory that it would be in your best interest to hold out for a new one from 2020 or even 2021.
Is it better to buy a sedan or an SUV if you have a small family and a tight budget?
Truth be told, the crossovers from this manufacturer sometimes cost the same, with the Nissan Kicks bearing a sticker of just $18,870 to start. This makes it worth having a look at it.
What is the best product of them all?
The Versa ticks all the right boxes. It is extremely kind to tight budgets and has funky styling and a modern interior to boot.