The 2004 Nissan Sentra has a completely fresh look for the new model year, thanks to its redesigned front and rear fascias, a restyled hood, new headlights and front and rear bumpers.
As well as the new look for the fifth-generation Sentra and the performance-oriented SE-R (see separate release), there are also new interior fabrics in colours designed to complement exterior colour choices.
"We are constantly on the lookout for ways to increase the value of Sentra, because that's what this sophisticated little vehicle is about," said Nissan Canada marketing director Ian Forsyth. "The features we have added for 2004 are all about added value."
Other changes for 2004 include a new naming structure for the four Sentra models, which is similar to that of Altima and the 2004 Maxima. The Sentra 1.8 replaces the former Sentra XE, while the former GXE is now known as the Sentra 1.8S. The names of the SE-R and SE-R Spec V remain the same.
Sentra 1.8 and 1.8S models are powered by a peppy 1.8 litre, four-cylinder engine putting out 126 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 129 ft-lbs of torque at 2,400 rpm.
The 16-valve, DOHC engine features a direct ignition system (similar to Maxima), variable valve timing, microfinished crankshaft and camshafts, a 32-bit engine control module and a special swirl control valve which increases air/fuel mixing during engine warm-up to improve combustion.
A five-speed manual transmission is standard on both 1.8 and 1.8S, while a four-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with overdrive is optional. The automatic features a modified clutch pack and revised shift schedule to provide smoother performance plus a torque converter to enhance performance and fuel economy.
The extremely well-equipped Sentra 1.8 can be further enhanced with the addition of the Value Option Package (VOP) which includes air conditioning, 100-watt AM/FM four speaker stereo with CD player, digital clock, colour-keyed door handles and side mouldings, centre console with armrests, variable intermittent wipers and dual front-seat vanity mirrors.
As well as all the features of the 1.8 with the VOP, Sentra 1.8S includes power heated outside mirrors, power windows and door locks, tachometer, cruise control, remote keyless entry with trunk release and other luxury and convenience items.
A Personal Security Package (PSP) includes a four-wheel, four-channel, four-sensor Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and front-seat side-impact airbags.
The ultimate Sentra 1.8S can be created with the additional of the 1.8S Luxury Package, which among other features includes 15-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, 180-watt Premium audio system with seven speakers and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter knob.
The five-passenger Sentra provides excellent front and rear headroom and legroom with total interior volume of 2,835 litres (100.0 cubic feet).
The driver's seat adjusts eight ways and the raised hip point aids in easier entry and exit. A 60/40 split fold-down rear seat with locking seat back is standard.
Sentra's excellent handling and road manners come from the combination of front independent MacPherson struts and Nissan's innovative rear Multi-Link Beam( TM ) design. The rear Multi-Link Beam suspension provides predictable handling and less road noise than traditional designs. In front, a sub-frame allows use of soft bushings for improved ride comfort and a short length stabilizer bar to improve dynamic performance.
Standard safety features on the 2004 Sentra include an emergency inside trunk release and a rigid bar child seat anchorage system called LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren). This is in addition to the extensive list of standard safety features, including dual front supplemental airbags, energy-absorbing steering column, child safety rear door locks, three-point seatbelts in all seating positions, front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters and adjustable upper anchors, front and rear crumple zones and pipe-style steel side-door guard beams.