2013 Nissan Sentra: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2013 Nissan Sentra is a full redesign and the first year of the seventh-generation model. Its biggest change is a lighter new platform paired with a new 1.8-liter engine and an updated automatic transmission.
About the 2013 Nissan Sentra
7th generation (B17), first year of the redesign
Nissan positioned the 2013 Sentra as a compact sedan with a more grown-up feel than its price and size suggested. The core pitch was easy fuel economy, a back seat and trunk that felt closer to a midsize car, and simple technology wrapped in Altima-inspired styling. For most shoppers, this Sentra was less about sporty driving and more about comfortable commuting, low running costs, and a cabin that felt roomier and nicer than many small-car rivals.
The 2013 lineup ranges from the straightforward S to the better-equipped SV and comfort-focused SL. FE+ S and FE+ SV models focus on fuel economy, while the SR adds sportier bodywork and 17-inch wheels without extra power. The SL stands out with push-button start, dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth, and heated mirrors.
What changed, by category
2013 Nissan Sentra specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, CVT w/Xtronic | Automatic, CVT w/Xtronic | Automatic, CVT w/Xtronic | Automatic, CVT w/Xtronic | Automatic, CVT w/Xtronic | Automatic, CVT w/Xtronic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 30 mpg | 30 mpg | 30 mpg | 30 mpg | 30 mpg | 30 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 39 mpg | 39 mpg | 39 mpg | 39 mpg | 39 mpg | 39 mpg |
| Horsepower | 130 hp | 130 hp | 130 hp | 130 hp | 130 hp | 130 hp |
| Torque | 128 lb-ft | 128 lb-ft | 128 lb-ft | 128 lb-ft | 128 lb-ft | 128 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 15.1 cu-ft | 15.1 cu-ft | 15.1 cu-ft | 15.1 cu-ft | 15.1 cu-ft | 15.1 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 37.4 in | 37.4 in | 37.4 in | 37.4 in | 37.4 in | 37.4 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||||
| Cruise Control | ||||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||||
| Fog Lights | ||||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||||
| Bluetooth | ||||||
| Navigation System | ||||||
| Premium Audio | ||||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||||
| USB Ports | ||||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||||
| Leather Seats | ||||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||||
| Wood Interior Trim | ||||||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2013 Nissan Sentra a redesigned model?
Yes. The 2013 Sentra is the first year of the seventh generation, with a lighter new platform, a new body, a roomier cabin, a larger trunk, and a new 1.8-liter engine.
What engine and transmission does the 2013 Nissan Sentra use?
The 2013 Sentra uses a new 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. Most models pair it with a new-generation continuously variable automatic transmission, while the S is the only trim with a six-speed manual.
Is the 2013 Nissan Sentra roomier than the 2012 model?
Yes. Rear legroom increased from 34.5 to 37.4 inches, and trunk capacity grew from 13.1 to 15.1 cubic feet for the redesigned 2013 model.
What are the 2013 Nissan Sentra FE+ trims?
The FE+ S and FE+ SV are new fuel-economy-focused trims for 2013. Both use a continuously variable automatic transmission, a rear spoiler, and underbody aerodynamic panels to target a 40-mpg highway rating; the FE+ SV also carries the SV trim’s added comfort and convenience equipment.
Does the 2013 Nissan Sentra still have an SE-R performance model?
No. The SE-R and SE-R Spec V were dropped for 2013. The SR remains the sport-looking version, but its changes are visual and it uses the same basic 1.8-liter engine as the rest of the lineup.