Edmunds puts sedans Nissan Sentra and Toyota Corolla to the test

Affordable Sedans Under $25,000: Nissan Sentra Takes on Toyota Corolla in 2026

As vehicle prices continue to climb, many consumers find themselves priced out of new SUVs and electric vehicles. This affordability crisis has renewed interest in compact sedans, which remain one of the few vehicle categories with models still available under $25,000. For budget-conscious buyers seeking the benefits of a new car warranty and that coveted new-car smell, two standout options have emerged for 2026: the redesigned Nissan Sentra and the updated Toyota Corolla.

Nissan has completely overhauled its Sentra for 2026, positioning it as the entry-level sedan in its lineup. The redesign includes a fresh exterior appearance and a significantly upgraded interior featuring improved materials and an expansive digital display. Meanwhile, Toyota’s Corolla, though not fully redesigned, has received several enhancements for 2026, including additional standard features to maintain its competitive edge in the compact sedan market.

Automotive experts at Edmunds have conducted thorough testing of both vehicles to determine which provides the better value proposition for consumers seeking affordable transportation.

In the performance category, the Corolla holds a clear advantage. Its four-cylinder engine produces 169 horsepower, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 8.8 seconds during Edmunds’ testing. While not particularly quick, it outpaces the Sentra by nearly a full second. The Nissan’s 149-horsepower engine requires more aggressive throttle input to keep pace with highway traffic.

Fuel economy further tilts the scales in Toyota’s favor. The Corolla achieves up to 35 mpg combined in EPA testing—and reportedly performed even better in Edmunds’ real-world evaluation—while the Sentra tops out at 33 mpg combined. Toyota also offers two options unavailable with the Sentra: a hybrid powertrain capable of 50 mpg combined and available all-wheel drive on hybrid models, providing added versatility for customers in regions with inclement weather.

Where the Sentra shines brightest is technology. Nissan’s 2026 interior renovation introduces dual 12.3-inch displays spanning half the dashboard, creating an impressive digital cockpit experience that comes standard on all but the base trim. The Corolla’s smaller 8-inch standard display (or optional 10.5-inch upgrade) appears dated by comparison. Both vehicles include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, with optional wireless charging and premium audio systems available.

Driver assistance features remain comparable at the basic level, with both models offering blind-spot warning and adaptive cruise control with lane-centering capabilities. However, the Sentra edges ahead with available enhancements including stop-and-go traffic functionality for its adaptive cruise control, rear parking sensors, and a high-definition surround-view camera system—premium features rarely found in this price segment.

Interior comfort presents another win for the Nissan. The Sentra’s slightly larger dimensions provide more elbow room and front legroom, though its sloping roofline does reduce rear headroom for taller passengers. Recent interior updates give the Sentra a fresher appearance, and Edmunds notes that its front seats rank among the most comfortable in the compact car segment for long-distance driving.

Cargo capacity also favors the Sentra, with its 14.3 cubic-foot trunk outpacing the Corolla sedan’s 13.1 cubic feet. However, Toyota offers the Corolla Hatchback variant, which provides nearly 18 cubic feet of storage space for those needing additional cargo room.

Pricing remains competitive between the two models. The Sentra starts at $23,845 including destination charges, undercutting the Corolla’s $24,120 base price. The Corolla Hatchback and Hybrid variants command approximately $1,500 to $1,900 more. At the entry level, the Sentra provides better value with its larger touchscreen, enhanced cruise control functionality, and greater trunk space. Moving up to the Sentra SV trim for about $500 more than the base Corolla adds even more features, including the larger digital instrument cluster.

While Edmunds officially scores the Sentra slightly higher overall, the publication suggests that consumer preferences should dictate the final decision. Buyers prioritizing performance and fuel economy might find the Corolla worth its premium, especially considering its hybrid option. Those valuing technology, interior space, and feature content per dollar will likely prefer the Sentra’s comprehensive package.

Both vehicles demonstrate that affordable transportation options still exist in the new car market, despite the industry’s general trend toward higher-priced vehicles. For budget-conscious consumers unwilling to compromise on modern features, these compact sedans represent two of the most compelling options available for 2026.