Nissan Sentra production has been carried out since 1982 and continues till nowadays. Today there are seven generations and two facelifts produced. Manufacturing was established in Japan, the USA, Mexico, Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia. Last generation cars are now built in Russia, China, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Thailand, the USA and Taiwan.

Nissan Sentra cars appeared on the market in 1982. Model was created on the Nissan Sunny platform and was designated for North American market. Four generations were manufactured till 1999.

The first generation of Nissan Sentra, B11, was available in three versions: 3-door hatchback, 5-door station wagon, 2/4-door sedan. After the presentation of the Nissan Sentra second generation (B12) coupe body became available. Nissan Sentra B13 cars (the third generation) were manufactured in coupe and sedan versions. Starting from fourth Nissan Sentra generation (B14) only sedan versions were left.

Design and performance characteristics were constantly improved. Angular body was gradually smoothing and became more streamline. The fourth generation cars were equipped with an antiskid braking system (ABS), two airbags, power pack and trip computer.

The fifth generation of Nissan Sentra sedans was produced in 1999-2006. Car got bigger dimensions and a new design. Headlights became transparent and a radiator grille got a honeycomb structure.

New bumpers with wide air-inltakes provided stylish and modern look to car. New more qualitative materials were used for an interior upholstery. In some configurations car had a leather steering wheel.

In 2004 Nissan Sentra B15 design was slightly improved. Car got new bumpers with changed fog lights design. Company logo in the center of a radiator grille was enlarged.

The sixth generation cars debuted on North American international Motor Show in 2006. These models were produced till 2012. Nissan Sentra B16 got more sport-looking and dynamic design. Front part was decorated with large diamond shaped headlights and a chrome radiator grille. Massive front bumper with big air-inlet made exterior look more solid. Interior was notable for ergonomics and comfort. Spacious anatomic seats had few adjustment levels. Leather upholstery was available in extended configurations.

In 2009 cars were slightly redesigned. Changes affected front and rear lights, radiator grill and list of options.

Nissan Sentra B17 sedan debuted in 2012 on Beijing Motor Show. Seventh generation of Sentra got fully redesigned interior and exterior. Shapes of front and rear lights were changed. Lights got LED-inserts. Manufacturer started to provide new seats. Basic configuration included stability control system (ESC), two airbags, heated seats, power windows and side mirrors.

Nissan Sentra B17 was restyled in 2016. Insignificant changes affected headlights, bumpers, a hood, a luggage compartment and a wheel rims design.

Nissan Sentra got twin models: Nissan Pulsar, Nissan Sylphy, Nissan Sunny and Nissan Tsuru.