2025 Nissan Sentra vs. 2025 Dodge Hornet

If you’re looking for a compact vehicle for driving in San Angelo, Texas, the 2025 Nissan Sentra and Dodge Hornet are two strong options. Nissan sticks to its practical sedan roots with the 2025 Sentra, while Dodge offers a sportier compact crossover. These vehicles tackle performance, design, and reliability from opposite angles, giving you distinct choices depending on what matters most for your daily drives. Read our 2025 Nissan Sentra vs. 2025 Dodge Hornet comparison to help you choose the right car for your lifestyle.

What’s New for 2025 Models?

Nissan has improved the 2025 Sentra by adding perks to the SV trim. The lineup stays simple with four trim options: S, SV, SR, and SR Midnight Edition. Consumer Reports includes the Sentra in its Best Cars of the Year list for small cars.

Dodge goes muscular with its 2025 Hornet. You can choose between the gas GT and GT Plus or the powerful but efficient plug-in hybrid R/T and R/T Plus. The available Track Package adds steering-wheel shift paddles for quicker gear changes.

Pricing and Model Variants

If budget is a concern, the 2025 Sentra speaks the language of affordability. The lineup starts at a wallet-friendly $21,590 for the S trim, with the SR Midnight Edition costing $25,285. Apply for financing before you shop to understand what your budget allows.

The Hornet’s pricing reflects its performance goals. Base prices start at $29,995 for the GT trim and go up to $47,485 for the R/T Plus, putting the Hornet in a completely different price bracket. The Sentra is ideal if you need an inexpensive car for commuting in San Angelo and don’t want to spend more for the Hornet’s stronger performance.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The Sentra’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 149 hp and 146 lb-ft of torque, making it ideal for daily San Angelo drives. It pairs with a continuously variable transmission for better gas mileage, while front-wheel drive handles corners and wet roads predictably.

The Hornet brings serious muscle. GT and GT Plus versions use a turbo 2.0-liter engine making 268 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, nearly twice the Sentra’s power. A nine-speed automatic transmission sends power through its all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. This powertrain lets the Hornet race from 0 to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds. The R/T and R/T Plus add an electric motor to a 1.3-liter hybrid setup for 288 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. These models have a six-speed automatic transmission and decrease the 0-to-60 mph time to 6 seconds when you use the Power Shot boost.

Fuel Economy and Efficiency

The Sentra dominates at the pump. S and SV trims achieve 34 mpg combined (30 mpg in the city/40 mpg on the highway), while the SR gets 33 mpg combined (30 mpg in the city/38 mpg on the highway). These stats earn a 9.4/10 fuel economy rating from U.S. News & World Report. If you commute regularly and want to avoid frequent fill-ups, the Sentra can save you money.

The power-focused Hornet uses more fuel. Standard models get 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, which is decent but far from the Sentra’s efficiency. Plug-in hybrid models offer 32 miles of electric-only driving and a 360-mile range, providing flexibility for economical weekday drives and full power for weekend adventures.

Exterior Design and Style

A clean, modern design makes the 2025 Sentra stand out. LED running lights and a V-motion grille create a distinct face, while sculpted side panels add visual movement. The rear styling stands out from other sedans, and SR models feature sharp-looking 18-inch alloys that complement the car’s low, wide stance.

The Hornet opts for bold styling. Its hood edges jut over the fenders and headlights, with distinctive hood vents adding to its powerful look. Curved sides, an illuminated rear logo, and a Dodge Racetrack taillight blend sportiness and visibility.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo Space

Just because it’s a compact car doesn’t mean you can’t have the roominess you want. The Sentra’s 96.1 cubic feet of passenger space prevents cramping. The front seats provide 43.8 inches of legroom for tall drivers, while rear passengers enjoy 34.9 inches. The trunk offers 14.3 cubic feet of space for San Angelo grocery runs, and 60/40-split rear seats fold for longer items.

The Hornet emphasizes cargo versatility, providing 27 cubic feet behind the rear seats — nearly double what the Sentra’s trunk has — and up to 54.7 cubic feet with the seats folded. You can easily carry camping gear, sports equipment, or furniture. Some owners find the rear seats tight, so it’s worth checking if you often transport adults.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Sentra features a NissanConnect 7- or 8-inch touch screen, depending on the trim, which supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. If you love music, you can upgrade to a Bose premium audio system with eight speakers. A Wi-Fi hot spot keeps you connected without draining cell data.

Dodge fits the Hornet with Uconnect 5 software and a 10.25-inch touch screen that helps reduce distraction while driving. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto mean you don’t have to mess with cables. The Hornet’s larger screen gives it a slight edge if you’re a tech enthusiast.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and lane departure and blind-spot warnings, earning the 2025 Sentra a five-star rating in National Highway Traffic Safety Administration crash tests. The Hornet offers similar features, but the Sentra’s fuller safety suite and proven crash ratings may win you over.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Nissan covers the Sentra with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and five-year/60,000-mile powertrain protection. You’ll also get five-year rust coverage and three-year/36,000-mile roadside assistance for unexpected troubles.

Dodge offers the same warranty protection, but the Sentra’s extra rust coverage can make a difference in Florida’s wet climate. Neither brand includes free maintenance, so budget accordingly for both options.

Pros and Cons Summary

Both models have advantages and disadvantages. The 2025 Nissan Sentra has the following:

Pros:

• Affordability
• Great fuel economy
• A spacious interior
• A complete safety suite
• Consumer Reports 2025 Top Pick for Small Cars

Cons:

• Less power than its competitors
• Limited trunk space
• No hybrid option

The 2025 Dodge Hornet also has several pros and cons, as seen below:

Pros:

• Powerful engine options
• Sporty handling with standard AWD
• A plug-in hybrid available
• Generous cargo capacity
• A large 10.25-inch touch screen

Cons:

• Higher price
• Lower fuel economy
• Cramped rear seating
• Unproven new model reliability

Which Compact Car Should You Choose?

You may prefer the Hornet if you’re a driving enthusiast willing to pay more for performance. Its strong engines, AWD grip, and sporty feel are rewarding, but if you want efficiency and reliability for your daily San Angelo commute, the Sentra easily wins the competition. Visit us at Jim Bass Nissan in San Angelo to experience the 2025 Sentra. We’ll show you its features and help you explore our new vehicle inventory without pressure. When you’re ready to buy, use the value of your current vehicle toward the purchase price.