2026 Honda Civic LX vs 2026 Nissan Sentra S
3 mpg better vs $2,095 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 150 vs 149 hp, 36 vs 33 MPG.
The Civic LX leads on 3 MPG better. The Sentra S leads on $2,095 less. The spec table compares 4 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 4 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2026 Honda Civic LX | 2026 Nissan Sentra S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $24,695 | $22,600 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 150 hp | 149 hp |
| Torque | 133 lb-ft | 146 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 32 | 30 |
| Highway MPG | 41 | 38 |
| Combined MPG | 36 | 33 |
| Fuel Tank | 12.4 gal | 12.4 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 2,875 lbs | 3,097 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 107.7" | 106.5" |
| Length | 184.8" | 183.3" |
| Width | 70.9" | 71.5" |
| Height | 55.7" | 57.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Honda Civic LX and 2026 Nissan Sentra S?
The 2026 Nissan Sentra S starts at $22,600, $2,095 less than the 2026 Honda Civic LX at $24,695. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $37/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Honda Civic LX?
The 2026 Honda Civic LX is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $106/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Nissan Sentra S?
The 2026 Nissan Sentra S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,095 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Sentra S covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Honda Civic LX or 2026 Nissan Sentra S?
The 2026 Honda Civic LX rates 36 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Honda Civic LX or 2026 Nissan Sentra S?
The 2026 Honda Civic LX produces 150 hp, 1 more than the 2026 Nissan Sentra S at 149 hp. The 2026 Nissan Sentra S also leads in torque at 146 lb-ft vs 133 lb-ft.
Is the 2026 Honda Civic LX bigger than the 2026 Nissan Sentra S?
The 2026 Honda Civic LX is 1.5″ longer at 184.8″ vs 183.3″. The 2026 Honda Civic LX has a 1.2″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Honda trims, Honda Civic trims, Nissan trims, Nissan Sentra trims
- 2026 Honda Civic LX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The Civic–Sentra Decision
Shopping compact cars means the Civic and Sentra will likely end up on the same test-drive day. Here is what the numbers say before you get behind the wheel. The $-2,095 gap is about $37/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
Both run the same 2.0L I4 engine. The 1 hp difference (150 vs 149) is marginal in daily driving. Both use FWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Honda Civic LX saves roughly $106/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $530.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Honda Civic LX when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $106/year less on fuel. Choose the 2026 Nissan Sentra S when you want to keep $2,095 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Sentra S covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Honda or Nissan or any dealership.