Sentra SE-R
Nissan’s jumping head-first into the pocket-rocket segment again with the return of the SE-R moniker....and again on a Sentra sedan. Honda/Acura has dominated this market segment ever since the mid 90s. Now Nissan fights back with a wallop.

Just a fore note, the SE-R comes in two variants: spicy (base SE-R) and extra spicy (SE-R Spec V). Again, FreshAlloy.com brings it to you first.







Could Nissan have looked to it’s mind-numbing Skyline GT-R for influence on it’s new pocket-rocket, the Sentra SE-R? Nissan tacked on an aggressive front fascia, side-sills and larger wheels (16 inch on SE-R, 17-inch on Spec V)

We’re sure the part everyone really wants to know about is the specs, so I’ll shut up about everything and get down to the good stuff. As we predicted, the base SE-R features Nissan’s new all alloy QR25DE 4-cylinder 170 bhp and 175 ft-lbs of torque. In the Spec V, it pumps out 180hp and 180 ft-lbs of torque due to a larger exhaust system.

QR series technology was based ob Nissan’s famed VQ V6 like a modular engine design, micro-finished crank journals and cam lobes, molybdenum coated lightweight pistons, electronically controlled throttle and continuously variable valve timing.

Connected to the QR is your choice of three transmissions; a 6-speed manual in the Spec V, and a 5-speed stick or 4-speed slush-box in the SE-R. Also A helical limited-slip differential is standard on the SE-R Spec V. This mechanical differential is torque sensitive and provides instantaneous locking for increased traction and performance.

Nissan estimates that the Spec V will hit 60mph from a standstill in the low 7 seconds.

The base SE-R features sport-tuned front and rear shocks and a front tower-brace for added suspension feel. It’s connected to the road via 16-inch wheels. The Spec V one-ups the base SE-R, it’s front spring rates have been increased 15 percent and rear spring rate has been increased 16 percent and there is improved shock absorber tuning. Slick 17-inch wheels complete the package.

The SE-R is fairly well equipped, but has some options like an automatic transmission, sunroof package with dual illuminated visor vanity mirrors, front-seat side-impact supplemental air bags and ABS package, vehicle security system and Rockford-Fosgate audio system.

The Spec V option list includes the Rockford Fosgate audio system, sunroof, front-seat side-impact supplemental air bags, ABS and vehicle security system. No automatic transmission is available on Spec V.

Inside, Nissan has added more elements of sport to the already well designed Sentra interior. 





The base SE-R will feature special seat cloth, titanium-faced gauges and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift knob. But the cool stuff is saved for the Spec V. An all-metallic meter finish with orange illumination and a special leather-wrapped steering wheel contrast with the exclusive charcoal-colored interior with black and red accents. GT-R like sport bucket seats make sure you ass is glued to the seatbacks.

So when can you hit the streets in your own pocket rocket? How about fall of 2001?