The Sentra has been completely redesigned a few years ago but despite that the current model is nothing more than just a way of transport. Unlike the older models, the new one doesn’t have a character, and it is quite dull. However, it seems that the 2017 Nissan Sentra is going to spice things up a bit and take care of that problem. Not that long ago new model has been spied testing and was wearing quite an unusual camouflage. The car had a more aggressive body kit, a larger front air intake and it also seemed to feature a new design. Since then the new looks already appeared on the production model.
Exterior
This has been updated for the 2016 model year with a new V-shaped grille borrowed from the Maxima. Also, the car received slight interior updates as well. Unfortunately, its chassis is barely average and on top of that, it doesn’t have any suitable engine for a higher performance model and thus can’t compete on this interesting market segment. This should change in the near future though with the introduction of newly developed units and upgrades to existing ones.
On top of that, even the base model of the car is expected to receive a large update to its running gear. As a result, we expect it to cut the massive body roll and improve the way it feels around corners. It should also add a bit more comfort to the mix, especially since the current car is soft but quite harsh on rough surfaces. Even for the entry level sedan like Sentra it is unacceptable and needs to be changed.
Changes
Not just the running gear will change. In fact, we expect changes under the hood and inside the cabin as well for the new 2017 Nissan Sentra. The price should remain roughly the same as before, at least for the models that were already offered. There are two all new trim levels expected to be introduced with this generation of the car. Firstly, it seems that the SE-R model will get back into the mix. Also, a Nismo version has all the chances to be offered with the new car which we like since we do know that Nismo models always offer even better performances and upgrades in all segments.
2017 Nissan Sentra Engine
Both of these will make use of all new engines for the US market. While the base car will continue to offer the same old 1.8-liter naturally aspirated mill, the second option could be the turbocharged unit. The SE-R is expected to borrow the 1.6-liter turbocharged inline four engine from the Juke. This direct-injected and turbocharged engine should be good for close to 200 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. Coupled with a seven speed dual-clutch automatic, it becomes a really good choice for pretty much anyone with enough power and punch.
Nissan will likely offer this particular version of the car starting at around $23,000. The Nismo will start its life at closer to $25,000 and for a good reason. This is expected to make use of a larger 1.8-liter engine. Featuring the same technologies as the 1.6, this should get close to 250 horsepower which will make it the most powerful Sentra ever made. Its performance levels should be on par with any other hot-compact out there. Also, unlike the SE-R, a manual gearbox is expected to be the only choice here allowing the driver even better control over the vehicle.
Exterior Appearance
Both the 2017 Nissan Sentra SE-R and its Nismo counterpart should make use of a very similar exterior appearance package. The two will likely share the same front bumper and side skirts. However, the Nismo could come with a dual exhaust system as well as larger 18-inch wheels, in which case it will also get a unique rear end.
To help with its higher top speed and lower overall height, a rear wing might be added to the mix in order to decrease lift. The Nismo might also receive a Recaro interior with front and rear leather seats as well as a unique upholstery dressed in Alcantara, an unusual material for its class. Few more Nismo badges are expected for both interior and exterior, but not much more than that since Nissan still wants to keep it competitive.
