2017 Nissan Sentra NISMO Preview

Nissan's NISMO division has transformed the humble Sentra into a legitimate contender in the hot compact sedan segment. Competing directly with established players like the Honda Civic Sport, Hyundai Elantra Sport, and Volkswagen Jetta GLI, the Sentra NISMO brings track-inspired performance to everyday driving at an accessible price point under $25,000.

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Key Highlights

188-horsepower turbocharged 1.6L four-cylinder engine
Choice of 6-speed manual or performance-tuned CVT
NISMO-tuned suspension with monotube dampers
Aggressive aerodynamic body kit and unique styling
Track-inspired interior with sport seats and red accents

Exterior Design: Aggressive Yet Refined

The Sentra NISMO makes an immediate visual statement with its complete body transformation. Unlike standard Sentra models, the NISMO version features:

Front Fascia

Redesigned bumper with larger air intakes, black mesh grille with NISMO badging, and standard LED daytime running lights for improved visibility and sporty aesthetics.

Profile Enhancements

Unique side skirts and exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in high-performance tires (all-season standard, summer tires optional).

Rear Treatment

Subtle rear spoiler, NISMO-specific bumper diffuser, and distinctive exhaust tip that hints at the car's performance capabilities.

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Color options remain purposefully limited to four premium finishes: Brilliant Silver, Gun Metallic, Super Black, and Aspen White - all chosen to highlight the car's aggressive lines.

Interior: Driver-Focused Cockpit

Step inside the Sentra NISMO and you'll immediately notice this isn't your standard compact sedan interior. Nissan's performance division has transformed the cabin with:

Performance-Oriented Features

Thick-rimmed NISMO steering wheel with improved grip
Sport seats with enhanced bolstering for cornering support
Red-illuminated gauge cluster with NISMO branding
Aluminum sport pedals for better foot feel

Exclusive Design Elements

The monochromatic charcoal interior gets strategic red stitching and accents throughout, creating a cohesive performance aesthetic. NISMO-branded floor mats and a dark headliner complete the transformation from economy car to sport sedan.

Performance: Beyond the Badges

While many sport compacts rely solely on cosmetic upgrades, the Sentra NISMO delivers genuine mechanical improvements that transform the driving experience.

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Powertrain Specifications

Engine

1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder producing 188 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque - a significant upgrade over the standard Sentra's 130HP naturally aspirated engine.

Transmission

6-speed manual transmission for purists or a specially calibrated CVT automatic with manual shift mode and quicker response times.

Performance

0-60 mph in approximately 6.8 seconds (manual) with improved mid-range torque for real-world passing power.

Chassis and Suspension Upgrades

NISMO engineers didn't stop at power upgrades. The Sentra NISMO benefits from:

Unique front spring and strut tuning for improved turn-in response
Monotube rear dampers for better body control
Enhanced body structure with additional bracing
Revised steering calibration for improved feedback
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Competitive Comparison

How does the Sentra NISMO stack up against its closest rivals in the affordable performance sedan segment?

Model	Horsepower	Torque (lb-ft)	Transmission Options	Starting Price
Nissan Sentra NISMO	188	177	6MT/CVT	$24,900
Honda Civic Sport	180	177	6MT/CVT	$25,350
Hyundai Elantra Sport	201	195	6MT/7DCT	$23,950
Volkswagen Jetta GLI	228	258	6MT/7DCT	$31,190

Key Differentiators

While the Sentra NISMO may not lead in outright power figures, it offers several advantages:

More aggressive standard styling than Civic Sport
Lower base price than Jetta GLI while offering similar features
Unique NISMO heritage and brand cachet
Comprehensive suspension upgrades beyond typical "sport" trims

Driving Experience: Everyday Performance

Behind the wheel, the Sentra NISMO delivers a compelling blend of daily drivability and weekend fun. The turbocharged engine provides strong mid-range punch, making highway merging and passing maneuvers effortless. Unlike some competitors that sacrifice ride quality for performance, the NISMO's suspension tuning strikes an impressive balance between cornering composure and compliance over rough pavement.

Manual Transmission Option

For enthusiasts, the 6-speed manual transmission offers precise throws and a light clutch action that won't fatigue in stop-and-go traffic. The gear ratios are well-matched to the engine's power band, allowing drivers to keep the turbo spooled up during spirited driving.

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CVT Performance

Nissan's continuously variable transmission has been specially calibrated for the NISMO, with simulated shift points and quicker response than standard Sentra models. While purists will prefer the manual, the CVT offers impressive performance with the convenience of automatic operation.

Ownership Considerations

The Sentra NISMO makes a strong case for itself as a practical yet fun daily driver with several ownership advantages:

Fuel Efficiency

Despite its performance focus, the Sentra NISMO delivers respectable fuel economy:

Manual transmission: 25 mpg city / 31 mpg highway
CVT automatic: 27 mpg city / 33 mpg highway

Practicality

Unlike some performance cars that sacrifice utility, the Sentra NISMO retains:

14.3 cubic feet of trunk space (same as standard Sentra)
Comfortable rear seat accommodation for adults
Standard infotainment with smartphone integration
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Value Proposition

At under $25,000, the Sentra NISMO delivers genuine performance upgrades at a price point that undercuts many competitors while offering Nissan's reputation for reliability.

Final Verdict

The Nissan Sentra NISMO represents a compelling option for buyers seeking an affordable performance sedan that doesn't sacrifice everyday usability. While it may not match some competitors in outright power, its comprehensive chassis upgrades, aggressive styling, and NISMO pedigree make it stand out in a crowded segment.

For drivers who want a taste of motorsport-inspired engineering without breaking the bank or compromising practicality, the Sentra NISMO delivers where it counts - offering engaging driving dynamics wrapped in a package that works equally well for commuting and weekend backroad adventures.

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