2017 Nissan Sentra Nismo: A Quick Overview
2017 Nissan Sentra Nismo: A Quick Overview
Posted on November 24, 2016
After hearing about this performance model since forever, the LA auto show had a good look at the upcoming 2017 Nissan Sentra Nismo. Nismo as you likely know is Nissan’s in-house tuning shop. They take standard models and turn them into something special. They already work their magic on the GT-R, Juke and others and now they are hands on with the Sentra too.
We heard about the Nissan Sentra Nismo a years or so ago when we first saw a concept. It builds on the already very capable Sentra SR Turbo by adding body trim, changing the stance, adding new colours, front splitter, side skirts and a rear diffuser. So without even seeing under the hood, you already know it is something special!
Under the hood is the same engine as in the SR Turbo. It is a turbocharged 1.6-litre four cylinder that produces 188 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque. It will be attached to either a tuned CVT transmission or a six speed manual transmission.
I must admit to being a little surprised at the engine choice. Nismo have a well-earned reputation for tuning the life out of engines and getting more power than you could ever expect. Instead, in the 2017 Nissan Sentra Nismo it seems the only Nismo treatment is cosmetic. That is unless the Nissan people at LA were being deliberately coy about what will really be under the hood. Only time will tell on that one.
2017 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo
The 2017 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo takes a standard sedan in the Sentra, replaces the standard 1.8-litre engine with the turbocharged 1.6 from the Nissan Juke, bolts on some extra suspension, brakes, transmission and calls it job done. Add some body trim elements and you have a completely different car.
While the description doesn’t really sound that impressive, the car itself really is. Not only does it ride better thanks to new suspension and bigger brakes, it drives well too. A specially tuned Xtronic CVT transmission is available alongside a six speed manual. Both can help propel you down the road faster than you would expect a Sentra to achieve.
The Juke 1.6-litre four delivers 188 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque. In a car that is relatively light and stiff, that makes for a lot of fun. That is exactly what the 2017 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo is. Fun. Sure you can drive the daily commute sensibly and with one eye on maximum gas mileage. But then, when the mood takes, you can push the pedal down and have some real excitement.
It is an excellent car that offers a lot more power and drivability than the standard model. For that we think the 2017 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo makes an excellent purchase.
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