2017 Nissan Sentra Nismo
The 2017 Sentra
Nismo packs a 1.6-liter turbo four. It employs 16 valves, dual overhead cams,
direct injection, variable valve timing and oil pressure, and spray-coated and
mirror-finish cylinder bores to deliver 188 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque.
The muscle is transmitted to the
front wheels through either a six-speed manual or a continuously variable
transmission. The suspension is made up of independent struts up front and a
torsion beam out back, with stabilizer bars at both ends and monotube rear
shocks. It's been recalibrated by Nismo, along with the electronic power
steering system and upgraded front brakes.
The whole thing rides on 18-inch alloys, which
complement the enhanced appearance and aero package. There front, rear, and
side panels have been upgraded to not only give it a more aggressive look, but
reduce lift by 30 percent at the rear end. Black and red trim help reinforce
that this is no ordinary Senta, helped by the proliferation of Nismo logos
inside and out.
The performance treatment continues inside with
better-bolstered front seats, leather- and Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel,
and more. Red-trimmed charcoal is the only color in which the interior is
available, while buyers will be able to choose between silver, dark grey,
black, or white.
Unfortunately performance figures and
pricing/availability information have yet to be released, but we'll be keeping
an eye out for those as soon as they are – so watch this space. The 2017 Nissan Sentra Nismo is already looking down on
power compared to prospective rivals like the new Hyundai Elantra Sport – let
alone benchmark hot hatches like the Ford Focus ST and Volkswagen Golf GTI.
If Nissan can get the price down below, however, the
Sentra Nismo may open up a new class a step below to bridge the gap.
