Nissan Will Show New Altima SE-R in New York Next Week

Altima SE-R to Sport Additional Power, Suspension Upgrades and Styling Tweaks

Hot on the heals of Nissans Altima update, which includes a few subtle mid-cycle modifications to the front and rear styling as well as an upgraded interior with special attention paid to higher quality plastics, the Japanese brand has announced a special sport version for mom and pop enthusiasts who want a little more zing in their daily driver.

An Altima SE-R is heading for production, marking the first time Nissans SE-R label will be fixed to something other than a Sentra. Visually, the Altima SE-R is bold, with a deep front valance and air dam incorporating powerful fog lamps and a redesigned hood sporting a center-mounted bulge.

The backend of the car receives a similar go-fast body treatment, displaying a new tail skirt with openings for dual exhaust ports. A discrete trunklid spoiler adds the final touch, capping off a seriously sported up sedan.

Some additional features separate the SE-R from regular Altimas, starting with its reduced ride height and 18-inch ten-spoke alloy wheels wrapped in 225/45 ZR 18 rubber.

On the inside, the new SE-R boasts all the amenities of the top of the line Altima including a powerful Bose sound system, leather seating, a three-spoke sport steering wheel and special dark chrome accents.

The heart of the Altima SE-R is stronger than in any other Altima. Although the engine starts out with the same award-winning 3.5-liter V6 that most other trim levels feature, the motor has been modified to extract extra power. Nissan is coy about the cars actual output figures though, but they are confident the improved powerplant will exceed 250 horsepower.

As for the transmission, its up to the prospective owner to choose between a sporty six-speed manual or five speed automatic gearbox. As the SE-R still uses its front wheels for power, it is heavily advised that the optional traction control be fitted.

Aside from its visual mods and improved power, the Altima SE-R is equipped with stiffer springs that drop the ride height, reduce body roll and improve road-holding. Stiffer dampers and larger anti-roll bars also compliment the revised suspension setup.

Balancing the "whoa" factor of the added performance is an upgraded braking system consisting of standard ABS, brake force distribution and brake assist.

The Altima SE-R will make its debut at the New York auto show next week, and become available in September of 2004 with a price tag said to be less than $30,000.