Sentra SE-R Debuts at LA Auto Show

How do you make a sporty little sedan even more fun to drive? Add a minimum of 37 horsepower and 25 lb-ft of torque for the upcoming Sentra SE-R, or better yet, an additional 60 horsepower and 33 lb-ft of torque for the SE-R Spec V. That results in 177 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque for the SE-R and 200 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque for the Spec V! Theres more to Nissans sportiest compacts than just the power of a larger, highly-tuned 2.5L engine, mind you.

Included in the Spec V mix is a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission, higher rate springs, shocks and bushings, 225/45WR17 unidirectional high performance tires, high capacity front disc brakes with 12.6-inch rotors, and extra bracing underneath to increase body rigidity. The regular SE-R gets the Xtronic CVT with no manual offered, but the autobox also features steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters for hands-on, F1-style actuation.

Inside the all-black interior the SE R logo gets embroidered into the sport seatbacks in bright red and silver script, while aluminum foot pedals and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob are added, plus a two-gauge meter pack gives top of the center stack a new look and increased functionality. Spec Vs also get racy red seatbelts.

Regarding convenience and luxury features, both cars also include standard power windows and door locks, air conditioning, AM/FM/CD six-speaker audio, and an overhead CD holder. Optionally, a 340-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system can be had, as well as satellite radio, while Intelligent Key keyless entry can be included with the SE-R.

While even the SE-R Spec V isnt the most powerful in the segment, with many, from Chevys Cobalt SS offering only slightly higher output to Dodges Caliber SRT4 delivering 300 horsepower through the front wheels, plus the Mazdaspeed3 in between with 263 horsepower, not to mention rally replicas such as the Mitsubishi Lancer Evo and Subaru Impreza WRX STi with 286 and 300 horsepower respectively, plus all-wheel drive, the two Nissans are a great deal more exciting than any previous SE-R model and should be attractively priced in relation to their performance and specific equipment.

Pricing and more details about the cars will be available closer to the SE-R and Spec V launch date. Theyre slated to go on sale in March of next year as 2007 models.