The big news for the 2017 Nissan Sentra lineup is the addition of a turbo model to the top-line SR trim level.

2017 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo front 3/4 view

2017 Nissan Sentra

With the exception of the hot new Civic, sales of compact sedans here in the U.S. remain soft. But with the new Honda and a much-improved Chevrolet Cruze now on sale, despite an uphill battle Nissan continues to improve upon its compact entry, the Sentra.

2017 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo rear 3/4 view

Last year saw a mild update with new boomerang-shaped headlights, "V-motion" grille, new hood and bumpers and even re-shaped taillights. SR and SL trims also received new standard LED low-beam headlights with LED signature accents.

2017 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo front fascia

Inside, the dashboard was redesigned with a revised C-stack and an all-new steering wheel. SV, SR and SL grades also received an "Advanced Drive-Assist Display" (ADAD) comprised of a 5.0-inch screen located between the tachometer and speedometer as well as Siri Eyes Free.

Sentra also featured a new standard Active Understeer Control (AUC) system (although it is not available on S 6MT).

2017 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo rear spoiler and badge detail

2017 Nissan Sentra changes

The big news for 2017 is the addition of an SR Turbo model that features a new 1.6-liter direct injection turbocharged engine that generates a maximum of 188 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 177 lb.-ft. of torque between 1,600 and 5,200 rpm. This represents an increase of 64 hp and 52 lb.-ft. of torque over the 2017 Sentra SR trim's 1.8-liter engine.

2017 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo alloy wheel

This engine can be matched to either a 6-speed manual or, at no extra charge, a unique CVT automatic with manual mode. Nissan also notes that "To help handle the increased power and torque, significant changes were made to the suspension, steering and brakes to give the new SR Turbo a great driving feel.

For 2017, Nissan has also dropped the fuel-saving FE+S trim from the lineup.

2017 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo dashboard and center console

2017 Nissan Sentra prices

Last week, Nissan announced that the starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for a 2017 Sentra S, equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission, is $17,825, an increase of $215 over the 2016 model. Here is a complete list of 2017 Sentra prices:

2017 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo front seats

Model, Transmission, MSRP, (price change versus 2016 intro price)

Sentra S 6MT: $17,825 (+215)
Sentra S Xtronic: $18,825 (+360)
Sentra SV Xtronic: $19,385 (+240)
Sentra SR Xtronic: $21,245 (-420)
Sentra SL Xtronic: $23,005 (-670)
Sentra SR Turbo 6MT: $22,825 (NA)
Sentra SR Turbo Xtronic: $22,825 (NA)

All prices include a destination and handling charge of $835.

2017 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo rear fascia detail

Images courtesy of Nissan