Chevrolet Cruze vs. Nissan Sentra

iSeeCars' unbiased and data-driven comparison of the Chevrolet Cruze and Nissan Sentra contrasts the two cars across a broad spectrum of vehicle specifications to determine which car is better. In addition to comparing pricing and specs, iSeeCars uses all the ratings, rankings, and insights from its comprehensive analyses of each vehicle model, including calculations of reliability, safety, depreciation, value retention, and the vehicle's projected lifetime recalls (based on analyzing over 25 billion data points). This in-depth evaluation is used to identify which vehicle represents a better overall choice for shoppers who are considering both the Chevrolet Cruze and the Nissan Sentra.

When comparing the Chevrolet Cruze's and the Nissan Sentra's specifications and ratings, the Chevrolet Cruze has the advantage in the areas of typical lower range of pricing for one- to five-year-old used cars, and fuel efficiency and base engine power. The Nissan Sentra has the advantage in the areas of resale value and interior volume. Based on this comparison of the Chevrolet Cruze's and the Nissan Sentra's specifications and ratings, the Chevrolet Cruze is a better car than the Nissan Sentra.

Pricing: A used 2019 Chevrolet Cruze ranges from $9,993 to $18,995 while a used 2019 Nissan Sentra is priced between $9,995 to $18,998.

Resale/Retained Value: Looking at the 5-year depreciation rate for both models, the Chevrolet Cruze loses 40 percent of its value and the Nissan Sentra loses 38.2 percent of its value. This means the Nissan Sentra retains 1.8 percentage points more of its value and has the advantage of higher resale value versus the Chevrolet Cruze.

Engine Power and Fuel Efficiency Comparison: For engine performance, the Chevrolet Cruze’s base engine makes 153 horsepower, and the Nissan Sentra base engine makes 130 horsepower. The Cruze is rated to deliver an average of 32 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 521 miles. The Sentra is rated to deliver an average of 30 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 462 miles. This gives the Chevrolet Cruze the fuel efficiency and maximum range advantage over the Nissan Sentra. Both models use regular unleaded.

Passenger Space Comparison: While both models are compact cars, the Nissan Sentra has the advantage of offering more interior volume, reflected in more front head room, front leg room, rear shoulder room, rear leg room, and cargo space. The Chevrolet Cruze has the advantage in the areas of front shoulder room and rear head room.

Safety Ratings: When comparing crash test ratings from NHTSA, the Nissan Sentra has higher safety ratings than the Chevrolet Cruze, with an average rating of 4.55 out of 5 Stars compared to 4.51 out of 5 Stars.