Sedan Nissan Sylphy - one of the most popular models of the Japanese brand on the world market, especially in China, Russia and the CIS countries. Despite the fact that in Europe and the USA this car is known as Sentra, in our latitudes it became entrenched precisely under the name Sylphy. If you are planning a purchase or are simply interested in design, this article will help you understand all the nuances of the model’s exterior and interior through detailed photos.
We have collected over 100 real images different generations (B17, B18), including official promotional shots and photos from the owners. Here you will find comparisons with competitors like Toyota Corolla And Honda Civic, analysis of body color schemes, as well as tips on how to recognize restyled versions based on small details. We will pay special attention unique details of the 2023-2026 Sylphy that are often missed during a quick inspection.
All generations of Nissan Sylphy in the photo: from B17 to B18
Model Nissan Sylphy has changed three generations, but on the Russian market the most relevant are the two latest versions:
- 🔹 B17 (2012–2019) — debut on the platform Nissan V, overall design with Sentra for the USA, but with unique bumpers and optics for Asia.
- 🔹 B18 (2019–present) — radical update according to design canons Nissan 2.0, with an aggressive front end and a digital instrument panel.
The photo below shows the key differences between generations. Pay attention to the shape of the headlights: B17 they are more rounded and “smiling”, whereas in B18 — narrow, with LED elements around the entire perimeter. The radiator grille also became wider, and the bumper acquired pronounced stiffening ribs.
- B17 (2012–2019)
- B18 (2019–2026)
- Both options are good
- I don't know, I haven't seen it live yet
| Generation | Years of production | Key changes in appearance | Photo (front) |
|---|---|---|---|
| B17 | 2012–2019 | Round headlights, chrome grille, modest bumpers | 📷 [insert link to photo] |
| B18 (pre-restayl) | 2019–2021 | Narrow LED headlights, V-shaped grille, sporty bumpers | 📷 [insert link to photo] |
| B18 (restyle) | 2022–2026 | New optics with “boomerangs”, updated wheels, two-tone bodies | 📷 [insert link to photo] |
⚠️ Attention: Often found on the secondary market Sylphy with “deceptive” headlights - fake LED ones, where in fact there are ordinary halogens. Check this by the markings on the headlight glass: the original LED elements are engravedNissan Genuine LED.Nissan Sylphy B18 Exterior: Details Worth Considering
Design Sylphy B18 was developed under the slogan “Emotional Technology” - and this is noticeable in every detail. The front of the car is dominated by a massive radiator grille with chrome inserts, which visually expands the car. Headlights with three-dimensional LED elements create an effect of depth, and daytime running lights in the shape of boomerangs have become a trademark of the model.
Side Sylphy gives a dynamic silhouette with a sloping roof and an expressive line of windows. The rear lights, connected by a chrome strip, give the car a premium look. But there are nuances:
- 🔍 Wheels: The basic version comes with 16-inch die-cast models with a simple design, while the top versions get 17-inch with two-tone paint.
- 🔍 Doors: The handles are painted in body color, but in versions with a black roof they remain silver - this is not a defect, but a design decision.
- 🔍 Rear bumper: The restyled version (2022+) features a diffuser with chrome trim, which visually makes the car lower.
How to distinguish the restyled Sylphy B18 from the pre-restyled one?
In the restyled version (2022+), the shape of the front bumper has been changed - vertical air intakes have been added on the sides. The taillights have also been updated: they now have sharper edges and a darkened interior. Another marker is that the Nissan emblem on the trunk lid has become 10% larger.
⚠️ Attention: When inspecting a used one Sylphy check the condition of the chrome elements on the bumper and grille. In Russian conditions, they often fade after 2–3 years due to reagents. Original paint for restoration -Nissan Chromium Paint (code KH3).Nissan Sylphy body colors: which ones to choose and why
Palette Sylphy B18 includes 12 shades, but only 7 are officially available in Russia. The most popular are "Black Onyx" (KH3) And "Silver Quartz" (QAB), but there are also more original options:
Color Paint code Features Suitable for Black onyx KH3 Deep matte black with pearlescent effect Lovers of strict style, but requires frequent washing Silver quartz QAB Classic metallic, hides minor scratches A practical choice for everyday use Red Cupid AR3 A bright shade with a “wet” effect that attracts attention Young buyer, but difficult to resell Blue sapphire BL5 Deep dark blue with purple tint Connoisseurs of exclusivity, rarely found on the secondary market When choosing a color, keep in mind that:
- Dark shades (black, blue) emphasize the shape of the body, but require more careful care - even small specks of dust are visible on them.
- Light colors (white, silver) are more practical, but visually make the car less sporty.
- Two-tone options (black roof + gray/red body) available only in top trim levels
TeknaAndBose Edition.If you choose Sylphy for taxi or car sharing, give preference silver (QAB) or white (QM1) — these colors heat up less in the sun and retain their presentable appearance longer.
Nissan Sylphy interior: photos of the interior and hidden features
Salon Sylphy B18 made in a minimalist style with an emphasis on ergonomics. The instrument panel can be either analog (in basic versions) or fully digital (in
Tekna). Diagonal central multimedia screen 8 or 9 inches supports Apple CarPlay And Android Auto, but only from 2021 - in earlier versions this option was paid.Finishing materials depend on the configuration:
- 🛋️ Basic (
Comfort): fabric upholstery with a simple pattern, plastic on the dashboard without soft inserts.- 🛋️ Average (
Elegance): combined fabric + artificial leather, chrome inserts on the steering wheel.- 🛋️ Top (
Tekna): full skin Nappa with perforation, wooden inserts, heated/ventilated seats.Please note interior lighting: in versions from 2022 it became multicolor (10 shades) and synchronizes with music through the system Bose. Also in top trim levels there is
keyless entry with remote start function— a button on the key fob allows you to start the engine 5 minutes before getting into the car (relevant for winter use).☑️ What to check in the salon when inspecting a used Sylphy
Done: 0 / 4Nissan Sylphy vs competitors: photo comparison
Main rivals Sylphy on the market - Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic And Hyundai Elantra. To understand how they differ visually, just compare the key elements:
Model Front Profile Rear Interior Nissan Sylphy V-shaped grille, narrow headlights Sloping roof, dynamic line LED strip between lights Minimalism, digital tidy Toyota Corolla Large trapezoidal “mouth”, aggressive appearance Taller body, less sporty Simple flashlights without LED backlighting Conservative design, lots of buttons Honda Civic Narrow grille, headlights with eyelashes Low seating, long hood Futuristic lanterns with 3D effect Futuristic but cramped interior From the photo you can see that Sylphy takes a middle ground: it is not as aggressive as Corolla, but not as futuristic as Civic. But he has the most spacious salon in the classroom (according to Autostat, rear legroom - 890 mm versus 850 mm for competitors).
If practicality is important to you, Sylphy wins against Civic in terms of trunk volume (510 l vs 410 l) and comfort for rear passengers. But in terms of acceleration dynamics (0–100 km/h in 9.5 s) it is inferior Corolla with engine 2.0 (8.2 s).
Where to find high-quality photos of Nissan Sylphy for purchase
If you're looking for a used car, don't rely solely on ad photos—they're often doctored or hide defects. Here are reliable sources of real pictures:
- 📌 Official website of Nissan Russia — high-resolution gallery (but only new models).
- 📌 Drive2.ru — owner reports with photos “as is”, including the engine compartment.
- 📌 YouTube - reviews from AutoReview TV or Garage 54, where they show the car from all angles.
- 📌 Auto.ru / Drom.ru — filter ads by photos with the “verified” tag.
When viewing the photo, pay attention to:
- Coincidence VIN code on the plate under the hood and in the PTS (should be clearly visible in the photo).
- Condition paints on arches — Corrosion often starts there.
- Photo salon in bright light — this is how abrasions on the steering wheel and seats are visible.
⚠️ Attention: There are often photos in advertisements Sylphy with tinting, which is prohibited in Russia on front windows. Check whether the film has been removed - otherwise you will have to re-glue it (cost ~15,000 ₽).Frequently asked questions about Nissan Sylphy (FAQ)
🔧 What engines are installed on the Sylphy B18 in Russia?
Two versions are officially available:
- 1.6 l (HR16DE) — 114 hp, consumption 6.5 l/100 km (city).
- 2.0 l (MR20DD) — 144 hp, consumption 7.8 l/100 km (city).
Diesel and hybrid versions are not sold in the Russian Federation. For engine
MR20DDcritical use of oil5W-30with permission Nissan KE900-90042.🎨 Is it possible to repaint Sylphy in a different color without voiding the warranty?
Yes, but only in certified centers Nissan. Repainting yourself will void the body warranty. Popular colors for repainting - "Green Pearl" (GAD) And "Orange Sunset" (KH2), but they require 3 layers of varnish.
💡 Why do Sylphy have different headlights in the photo - what is the original?
Everything from 2020 Sylphy B18 are completed Fully LED optics (code
26510-4M00A). If you can see halogen lamps in the photo, this is:
- The car is manufactured before 2020.
- Non-original headlights (often Chinese replicas) are installed.
Original LED headlights have a signature signature Nissan on the inner lens.
🚗 How to distinguish Sylphy from Sentra from a photo?
Externally, the models are identical, but there are 3 key differences:
- Emblem on the trunk: y Sylphy the inscription is continuous, Sentra - divided into two parts.
- Tail lights: y Sylphy chrome strip between the lights, Sentra she's not there.
- Wheels: y Sylphy wheels often come with 5 spokes, Sentra - from 7.
📏 What are the dimensions of the Nissan Sylphy B18?
Model dimensions (in mm):
- Length: 4641
- Width: 1790
- Height: 1450
- Wheelbase: 2700
For comparison: Toyota Corolla shorter by 50 mm, but higher by 20 mm.