The 2023 Nissan Sentra retains its attractive starting price with a $19,950 MSRP for the base S version (not including $1,095 for destination and handling). This is only $140 more than the 2022 model, which added a Midnight Edition Package that carries over into 2023 for the SR trim. Crucially, this helps Nissan stay under the $20,000 price mark, a claim that very few compact sedans can make anymore.

Aside from the Sentra, the Kia Forte and Subaru Impreza are the only other compact sedans that are available for less than $20 grand. Finding a cheaper sedan would require stepping down to the subcompact class, where the Nissan Versa is the most affordable new car on sale in the US, beginning at $15,730.

Just like last year, Nissan will offer the Sentra with three trim levels: the S, SV, and SR. The SV starts at $21,170 but the price can go up with the SV Premium Package ($1,860) and All-Weather Package ($590) plus other dealer-installed accessories. Even the top SR trim is pretty affordable starting at $22,840, but this model has some more pricey add-ons that customers can select.

A two-tone paint job adds $645 to the price and black wheels are another $785. The SR Premium Package costs $2,470 while the Midnight Edition Package is a cheaper way to add black wheels (plus other black accents) for $695. Without counting the dealer accessories, it's possible to option a 2023 Sentra above $27,000.

No changes were made under the hood, where the Sentra soldiers on with a 2.0-liter normally aspirated four-cylinder sending power to the front wheels via a CVT. The engine produces a meager 149 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque but yields up to 39 mpg on the highway on S and SV trims.

While new cars continue to get more and more expensive, Nissan has managed to keep the Sentra's price low and the feature count high. The Sentra remains one of the most compelling sedans at its price point.