2016 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo: Specs & Review
Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2016 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo. This spunky little sedan brought a much-needed dose of excitement to the Sentra lineup. If you're wondering what makes this car tick, you've come to the right place. We're breaking down everything from its engine specs to its interior features, so you'll know exactly what you're getting if you're considering picking one up. This Sentra variant was designed to inject some fun into the daily commute, and it largely succeeded. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty details of what made the 2016 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo a standout model. Let's get started!
Engine and Performance
When it comes to the 2016 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo, the heart of the matter is undoubtedly its engine. Unlike its naturally aspirated siblings, the SR Turbo boasts a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine. This little powerhouse cranks out 188 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. That's a significant bump from the standard Sentra's 130 horsepower, making the SR Turbo feel much more responsive and, dare I say, fun to drive. The turbocharger really wakes up the Sentra, providing a noticeable surge of power when you put your foot down. This makes overtaking on the highway or merging into traffic a breeze. No more struggling to keep up!
The engine isn't just about raw power; it's also about how that power is delivered. Nissan engineers tweaked the suspension and steering to complement the added horsepower. The SR Turbo features a revised suspension setup that includes stiffer springs and dampers. This results in a more controlled and planted feel on the road. Body roll is reduced in corners, and the car feels more stable at higher speeds. The steering has also been sharpened, providing better feedback and a more direct connection to the road.
The SR Turbo was available with either a 6-speed manual transmission or an Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with manual mode. The manual is the enthusiast's choice, offering precise shifts and greater control over the engine's power. The CVT, while not as engaging as the manual, is surprisingly well-tuned. It mimics the behavior of a traditional automatic, with stepped ratios that avoid the dreaded CVT drone. Plus, the manual mode allows you to simulate gear changes using the shift lever, adding a bit of driver involvement.
Fuel economy is also decent for a sporty sedan. The SR Turbo is rated at 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway with the CVT, and slightly lower with the manual. That means you can have fun without constantly worrying about emptying your wallet at the gas pump. Overall, the engine and performance upgrades in the 2016 Sentra SR Turbo transform the car from a competent commuter into a genuinely enjoyable daily driver. It’s peppy, responsive, and offers a level of engagement that's often missing in this segment. If you're looking for a compact sedan that won't bore you to tears, the SR Turbo is definitely worth a look.
Interior and Features
Moving inside the 2016 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo, you'll find a cabin that balances comfort with a touch of sporty flair. It’s not a luxury car, but it offers a pleasant and functional environment for both the driver and passengers. The seats are well-cushioned and supportive, making them suitable for long drives. The SR Turbo trim adds unique cloth upholstery with sporty accents, giving the interior a slightly more premium feel. The overall design is straightforward and user-friendly, with all the essential controls within easy reach.
The SR Turbo comes standard with a decent array of features. You get a 5.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that includes navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. The system is relatively easy to use, although it's not as advanced or visually appealing as some of the newer systems on the market. Other standard features include dual-zone automatic climate control, a premium Bose audio system, and keyless entry with push-button start. These features add a touch of convenience and luxury to the SR Turbo, making it a comfortable place to spend time.
Space is also a strong point for the Sentra. Both front and rear passengers have ample headroom and legroom. The rear seats are particularly spacious for a compact sedan, making it a good choice for families or anyone who frequently carries passengers. The trunk is also generously sized, offering plenty of room for luggage, groceries, or whatever else you need to haul around. One thing the SR Turbo does well is practicality. It’s a compact car that doesn’t feel cramped or claustrophobic.
While the interior is generally well-equipped, there are a few areas where it falls short. The materials quality is decent but not exceptional. There are some hard plastics in the cabin, which can detract from the overall feel. Also, the infotainment system, while functional, is starting to show its age. It lacks modern features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which are now commonplace in many new cars. However, considering the SR Turbo's price point, these shortcomings are understandable. Overall, the interior of the 2016 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo is a comfortable and functional space that offers a good balance of features and practicality. It may not be the most luxurious or cutting-edge cabin on the market, but it gets the job done and provides a pleasant driving experience.
Technology and Safety
Discussing the 2016 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo, let's check the tech and safety features. In terms of technology, the 2016 Sentra SR Turbo offers a mix of essential and convenient features. The centerpiece is the 5.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. This system includes navigation, which is a handy feature to have, especially if you're frequently driving in unfamiliar areas. Bluetooth connectivity allows you to easily connect your smartphone for hands-free calling and music streaming. A rearview camera is also standard, which is a must-have for parking and maneuvering in tight spaces. The Bose premium audio system provides a decent sound experience, making your daily commute more enjoyable.
However, the technology in the SR Turbo is starting to feel a bit dated compared to newer cars. The infotainment system lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which are now standard on many vehicles. These features allow you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's infotainment system, providing access to apps, navigation, and other features. The graphics and responsiveness of the system are also not as modern as what you'll find in newer cars.
When it comes to safety, the 2016 Sentra SR Turbo offers a solid set of features. Standard safety equipment includes antilock brakes, stability control, and a full suite of airbags. The SR Turbo also comes with blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, which can help you avoid accidents by alerting you to vehicles in your blind spots. However, it lacks some of the more advanced safety technologies that are now available on many new cars, such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning.
The 2016 Nissan Sentra performed well in crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. These ratings provide reassurance that the Sentra is a safe car in the event of a collision. Overall, the 2016 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo offers a decent mix of technology and safety features. While the technology may not be the most cutting-edge, it provides the essential features that most drivers need. The safety features are comprehensive and the car has earned good crash test ratings, making it a safe choice for families and individuals alike.
Reliability and Common Issues
When considering the 2016 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo, it's important to look at its reliability and any common issues that owners have reported. Overall, the Sentra SR Turbo is considered to be a relatively reliable car. However, like any vehicle, it's not without its potential problems. One of the most common issues reported by owners is related to the CVT transmission. Some owners have experienced problems with the CVT, such as slipping, hesitation, or a complete failure. It's important to note that not all SR Turbos will experience CVT issues, but it's something to be aware of. If you're considering buying a used SR Turbo with a CVT, it's a good idea to have it inspected by a mechanic to check for any signs of trouble.
Another potential issue is related to the turbocharger. Turbochargers are complex pieces of equipment that can be prone to failure if not properly maintained. Some owners have reported problems with the turbocharger, such as oil leaks, reduced performance, or complete failure. To help prevent turbocharger problems, it's important to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule and use high-quality oil.
Besides the CVT and turbocharger, the 2016 Sentra SR Turbo is generally a reliable car. However, there are a few other minor issues that owners have reported. These include problems with the infotainment system, such as the touchscreen freezing or not responding, and issues with the air conditioning system, such as it not blowing cold air. These issues are not as common as the CVT and turbocharger problems, but they're still worth being aware of.
To ensure the long-term reliability of your 2016 Sentra SR Turbo, it's important to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule. This includes regular oil changes, fluid checks, and inspections. It's also a good idea to have your car inspected by a qualified mechanic on a regular basis to catch any potential problems before they become major issues. Overall, the 2016 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo is a relatively reliable car, but it's important to be aware of the potential issues with the CVT and turbocharger. By following the recommended maintenance schedule and having your car inspected regularly, you can help ensure its long-term reliability.
Is the 2016 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo Worth Buying?
So, is the 2016 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo worth buying? Well, it really depends on what you're looking for in a car. If you want a fuel-efficient and reliable car the standard Sentra is sufficient. But if you are looking for a car that offers a fun driving experience, the SR Turbo is definitely worth considering. It offers a significant performance upgrade over the standard Sentra, with its turbocharged engine providing plenty of power for daily driving. The SR Turbo also features a sport-tuned suspension and steering, which makes it more fun to drive on winding roads.
One of the biggest pros of the 2016 Sentra SR Turbo is its affordability. Used models can be found for a very reasonable price, making it an attractive option for budget-minded buyers. However, you should know that the technology isn't new. While the SR Turbo offers a decent set of features, it lacks some of the more modern technologies that are now available on newer cars. But the car overall is enjoyable, has good space and performs well for the price.
Ultimately, whether or not the 2016 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo is worth buying depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a fun-to-drive, affordable, and practical compact sedan, the SR Turbo is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to do your research, have the car inspected by a mechanic before you buy it, and be prepared to address any potential issues that may arise. With its blend of performance, practicality, and affordability, the 2016 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo offers a compelling package for those seeking a little extra excitement in their daily commute. Just keep those potential CVT and turbo issues in mind!
