2017 Nissan Sentra S Interior

The 2017 Nissan Sentra S represents an entry point into the compact sedan market, prioritizing affordability and efficiency. While not lavish, the interior is designed to offer a comfortable and functional experience for driver and passengers. This analysis delves into the key aspects of the 2017 Sentra S interior, examining materials, design choices, ergonomics, and features.

Seating and Upholstery

The Sentra S comes standard with cloth upholstery, a common choice in base models for its cost-effectiveness. The cloth is generally durable and easy to clean, although it lacks the premium feel of leather or synthetic alternatives. The seats themselves are relatively flat and offer minimal bolstering, focusing on providing adequate support for everyday driving rather than aggressive cornering. Lumbar support is limited, a trade-off made to keep costs down. The driver's seat typically offers manual adjustment for height, while both front seats provide fore-aft and recline adjustments.

The rear seats offer decent legroom for a compact sedan, a key selling point for the Sentra. The rear seatbacks are split-folding, allowing for increased cargo capacity when needed. The folding mechanism is usually a simple lever or pull tab located within the trunk area.

Dashboard and Instrument Panel

The dashboard design of the 2017 Sentra S is straightforward and functional. The materials used are primarily hard plastics, reflecting the car's entry-level positioning. While not particularly visually striking, the dashboard layout is logical and easy to navigate. The focus is on providing essential information clearly and accessibly.

The instrument panel features a traditional analog speedometer and tachometer, flanking a small digital display that provides information such as fuel level, trip mileage, and outside temperature. The gauges are typically illuminated in a clear and readable font. The digital display is often controlled via buttons located on the steering wheel.

Steering Wheel and Controls

The steering wheel is typically made of urethane (plastic) in the S trim. It offers a comfortable grip and is often equipped with buttons for controlling the audio system and cruise control. The steering column usually offers tilt and telescopic adjustment, allowing drivers to find a comfortable driving position. It's important to note that features may vary slightly depending on optional packages or regional differences.

The center console houses the infotainment system and climate controls. The climate controls are typically manual, consisting of knobs and buttons for adjusting temperature, fan speed, and airflow direction. The infotainment system in the S trim is usually a basic unit with a small display, AM/FM radio, CD player, and auxiliary input. Bluetooth connectivity for phone calls is generally standard. More advanced features like a touchscreen display, navigation, and smartphone integration are typically reserved for higher trims.

Infotainment System

As mentioned previously, the base infotainment system in the 2017 Sentra S is relatively basic. It's designed to be user-friendly and provide essential audio and connectivity functions. The system often includes a USB port for connecting external devices and charging smartphones. The audio quality is generally adequate for everyday listening, but it may not satisfy audiophiles seeking a premium sound experience.

The simplicity of the infotainment system can be seen as a positive by some, as it minimizes distractions and is easy to learn. However, those seeking a more modern and feature-rich experience will likely want to consider upgrading to a higher trim level that offers a touchscreen display, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and other advanced features.

Ergonomics and Practicality

The ergonomics of the 2017 Sentra S interior are generally well-considered. The controls are logically placed and easy to reach, minimizing the need for drivers to take their eyes off the road. The seats provide adequate support for short to medium-length trips, and the cabin offers sufficient headroom and legroom for most occupants.

Storage is also a key consideration in a compact sedan, and the Sentra S offers a decent amount of storage space. The center console provides a small storage bin and cupholders. The door panels also feature storage pockets for smaller items. The glove compartment is adequately sized for storing vehicle documents and other essentials. The trunk offers a generous amount of cargo space, making the Sentra S a practical choice for families and individuals who need to transport luggage or other bulky items. The aforementioned split-folding rear seats further enhance the car's versatility.

Materials and Build Quality

As with many entry-level vehicles, the 2017 Sentra S utilizes primarily hard plastics throughout the interior. While these materials are durable and easy to clean, they lack the premium feel of soft-touch materials or leather. The build quality is generally good for its class, with minimal rattles or squeaks reported. However, some reviewers have noted that the interior can feel somewhat basic compared to rivals with more upscale interiors.

The fit and finish of the interior components are generally acceptable, although some gaps or imperfections may be noticeable upon close inspection. The stitching on the seats and other upholstered surfaces is typically neat and even. The overall impression is one of practicality and durability rather than luxury or refinement.

Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH)

The 2017 Sentra S exhibits a moderate level of NVH. Engine noise is noticeable under acceleration, but it is generally well-controlled at cruising speeds. Road noise and wind noise are also present, but they are not excessive. The suspension does a reasonable job of absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface, providing a relatively comfortable ride. Upgrading the tires can often improve the NVH characteristics to some degree. Sound deadening materials are kept to a minimum in the S trim to reduce costs, impacting the overall quietness of the cabin.

Safety Features

While not strictly part of the interior, it's important to note the safety features that contribute to occupant well-being. The 2017 Sentra S comes standard with a range of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, and electronic stability control. These features help to protect occupants in the event of a collision. More advanced safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking are often available as optional extras or on higher trim levels.

Conclusion

The 2017 Nissan Sentra S interior is designed to provide a comfortable and functional experience at an affordable price point. While the materials and features are not luxurious, the cabin offers adequate space, decent ergonomics, and a practical layout. The focus is on providing essential amenities and features rather than bells and whistles. For buyers seeking a basic and reliable compact sedan, the 2017 Sentra S interior offers a reasonable compromise between affordability and functionality. Understanding these design choices allows for a greater appreciation of the engineering and cost considerations that go into producing a vehicle in this segment.