Nissan has a rich history in the value-driven sports sedan segment, first created by the Datsun 510 in the late 1960's and rekindled with the legendary 1991 Sentra SE-R, sold only in the U.S.
The original SE-R, produced from 1991 - 1994, was based on the third generation Sentra 2-door sedan. Even though it looked similar to a standard Sentra, a 140-horsepower 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine gave it lots of punch. The SE-R was a Car and Driver "10 Best" winner four times and an Automobile "All-Star" twice, not to mention a favourite of autocrossers and grassroots racers. Now, the Nissan SE-R will be available in Canadian showrooms later this fall, in two models: SE-R and SE-R Spec V.
"We're happy to present the 2002 Sentra SE-R to driving enthusiasts everywhere," said Ian Forsyth, director of marketing for Nissan Canada. " This car surpasses the original in every aspect and is worthy of the SE-R moniker."
SE-R Style
"The first Sentra SE-R was quite understated," said Forsyth. "This one announces its performance intentions at first glance."
The SE-R was designed to give a feeling of a mini-Nissan Skyline sports sedan. Building upon the style set forward on the fifth generation Sentra 4-door sedan, an aggressive front fascia with a mesh-pattern grille and large fog lights have been added. The side view is filled with body-colour side sill extensions and large wheels and tires - 16-inch on SE-R and 17-inch on SE-R Spec V models. The final touch is provided by a rear spoiler and large chrome exhaust tips.
Contributing to the design of the SE-R was Nissan Design America (NDA) in La Jolla, California and Nissan Technical Center-North America in Farmington Hills, Michigan (NTCNA-FH).
SE-R Power
An all-new 2.5-litre 4-cylinder, named QR25, powers the SE-R. This engine produces 175 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm and 180 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm in the SE-R Spec V model and 165 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm and 175 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm in the SE-R, up 30/20 horsepower and 47/48 lb-ft of torque from the previous generation SE-R. SE-R Spec V gains 10 horsepower over the standard SE-R with the use of a specially tuned exhaust system.
Technology for this all-new engine comes from the award-winning VQ 6-cylinder engines found in the Maxima sedan and Pathfinder sport utility vehicle. This includes a modular engine design, micro-finished crank journals and cam lobes, molybdenum coated lightweight pistons, electronically controlled throttle and continuously variable valve timing.
To combat vibrations inherent in large 4-cylinder engines, the QR25 features a silent chain drive and compact balancer system that effectively negates vibrations without taking up too much space - a problem with previous balancer designs.
Backing the QR25 is a 6-speed manual transmission (SE-R Spec V), 5-speed manual transmission (SE-R), or a 4-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission (SE-R).
A helical limited-slip differential is standard on the 6-speed equipped SE-R Spec V. This mechanical differential is torque sensitive and provides instantaneous locking for increased traction and performance.
SE-R Handling and Braking
Sentra SE-R's suspension has been tuned to provide a maximum amount of performance and ride comfort. There are two suspensions available corresponding with model choices - the standard SE-R and the ultimate, track-tuned SE-R Spec V. All SE-Rs feature front independent MacPherson struts and Nissan's patented rear Multi-Link Beam™, with 2mm larger front and rear stabilizer bars.
SE-R features performance-tuned front and rear shock absorbers and a front strut tower brace for additional stiffness and suspension feel. Completing the suspension upgrades are 16-inch alloy wheels with 195/55R16 tires.
SE-R Spec V builds upon the SE-R's handling capabilities. Front spring rates have been increased 15 percent and rear spring rates have been increased 16 percent and there is improved shock absorber tuning. High-performance 215/45ZR17 tires on special 17-inch wheels complete the suspension package and give Sentra a tough, sport-compact look.
Braking is provided by large 4-wheel disc brakes - the fronts measure a full 11 inches, larger than many so-called sporting machines. A 4-wheel, 4-channel, 4-sensor Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is also available.
SE-R Comfort and Rockford Fosgate® Sound
Sentra SE-R's interior is differentiated from the standard well-equipped Sentra with numerous performance and convenience enhancements designed by Nissan Design Europe (NDE), NDA and NTCNA-FH. An overhead storage console with map lights, special seat cloth, red letter gauges and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift knob give SE-R's interior a sporty, functional look. Air conditioning is standard in both the SE-R and Spec V.
Once again, the SE-R Spec V model takes the Sentra to new extremes. An all-metallic meter finish with orange illumination and a special leather-wrapped steering wheel add to the performance look of the special Lava interior with black and red accents. Skyline-style sport bucket seats ensure that the SE-R Spec V driver's backside stays planted on twisty mountain roads.
Available on SE-R Spec V and SE-R is a 300-watt 9-speaker Rockford Fosgate-powered audio system. This system, custom designed for the SE-R by the acclaimed aftermarket audio company, includes an 8-inch subwoofer that fires to the rear of the vehicle, rear coaxial speakers and two ohm front door speakers. This is the first system of its kind designed by Rockford Fosgate for an OEM application. Rockford Fosgate will also provide an audio system to Nissan for the 2002 Frontier Crew Cab. "We're sure that SE-R fans will appreciate the sounds from this extraordinary audio system," said Forsyth. "It's so good that upgrading will not be a thought to the SE-R buyer."
SE-R Safety and Security
The 2002 Sentra SE-R's standard safety equipment includes second generation air bags, an energy-absorbing steering column, child safety rear door locks, 3-point seat belts in all seating positions, front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters and adjustable upper anchors, front and rear crumple zones and pipe-style steel side-door guard beams.
SE-R also features an emergency inside trunk-release and the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system. Optional is a Vehicle Security System with Immobilizer.
SE-R Options
Sentra SE-R arrives remarkably well equipped. Available on SE-R is an automatic transmission, Sport Package and ABS package. The Sport Package which comes with sunroof, Rockford Fosgate audio system with 9 speakers, anti-theft system, Immobilizer System and anti-lock braking system.
Sentra SE-R Spec V models are equipped to an even higher level, with the 6-speed manual transmission and helical limited-slip differential standard. Optional is the same Sport Package as on the SE-R.
"The Sentra SE-R Spec V is the extreme model - almost track-ready right from the dealership floor," says Forsyth. "Both SE-Rs indicate the future direction of Nissan's sedans. It's a spirited one, to say the least."