Nissan Sentra Spec V: Quick Test

The formula for success in the hotly contested entry-level performance sport compact category is a simple one: Take one plain-vanilla econobox, stir in horsepower, wrap in functional aerodynamic add-ons, bigger wheels and brakes, then top it off with badges and graphics.

It's also a familiar recipe, and one that Nissan used with a few unique touches in cooking up its Sentra SE-R Spec V.

Under the hood, Nissan packed a 2.5-liter, double-overhead cam, 16-valve inline four - definitely adding some kick, with a full 200 horsepower.

Out of the accessory pantry came new bumpers, modified headlights and taillights, lower rocker panels, bold 17-in. wheels and, of course, a rear spoiler. But it's the mechanical limited slip differential that is the most useful ingredient.

Despite the attention paid to keeping weight down - at just over 3000 lbs. it is among the lightest in the entry-level sport-compact class - the Spec-V's acceleration lags behind that of its turbocharged competitors.

Though its stiffened and lowered suspension yields decent handling, the setup is quite conservative - leaning more toward ride quality than handling.

And then there's presentation. One word sums up the SE-R Spec V's exterior perfectly: discreet. That should be a positive, but in this class, discreet just isn't cutting it, and the Spec V is not aggressive enough.

Given their starting point - the homely Sentra with its high roofline, which scores points for interior space, but few for style - Nissan stylists would have been forgiven for spicing up the SE-R Spec V with less-discreet bumpers and spoilers. As is, with no outrage, it's just too bland.

Inside, though, it's much tastier with some nice touches that help convey the performance message. There are the seats with generous bolstering and SE-R embroidery; aluminum pedals with rubber inserts that are also well placed for heel-and-toe work; and red front seat belts that mimic racing harnesses and complement the red stitching on the seats and steering wheel.

The SE-R Spec-V offers a lot of space and comfortably seats four - not something that can be said for some of its competitors.

Also noteworthy is the optional Rockford Fosgate audio system - which is rather tasty except when its hi-fidelity masks a more appealing sound: One of the few non-turbocharged cars in the category, the SE-R's normally aspirated intake and exhaust sounds are sweet symphony as the tach needle sweeps toward 7000 rpm.

It's so tasty in fact, that you'll find yourself really working the crisp six-speed manual transmission just for the soundtrack.

Not as hard-core as the badges would have you believe, the Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec-V does offer a blend of performance, practicality and comfort that should prove attractive to the kind of buyer who'd be put off by its more focused competitors - the kind who like their hot sauce a little mild.

Watch the video
Read Part 1: Design
Read Part 2: Interior & User Experience
Read Part 3: Performance

2008 Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V

Performance
- Acceleration: Makes a good noise on its way to 7000 rpm while gaining speed briskly, if not really quickly
- Handling: Set up for safety more than for fun - unwilling to rotate without extreme provocation
- Braking: A little unstable under heavy footed braking, but very effective

Design
- Exterior: Sentra comes through more than SE-R - better looking competition by far
- Interior: Borrows styling cues from other, higher-priced, performance Nissans to good effect

Utility
- Comfort: Good seats and driving position will keep you comfortable for long hauls
- Space: More room than the competition makes this one more practical

Safety
- Dynamics: Decent moves all around
- Technology: Airbags, ABS and traction control, but no stability control

Value
- Price: Among the least expensive cars in its class, but the others are better cars overall... and faster
- Mileage: Very appealing given its performance

Emotional Appeal
- Heart thumpin' factor: Not quite deserving of that Spec V badge
- Fun to spank: Good sounds, but the the dynamics are lacking compared to its competitors

SPECIFICATIONS

Layout: Front engine / Front-wheel drive
Engine: 2.5 liter, inline 4
Power (SAE): 200 hp @ 6600 rpm
Torque: 180 lb-ft @ 5200 rpm
Gearbox: 6 speed manual
Curb Weight: 3,075 lbs.
0-60 mph: 6.6 sec.
1/4 mile: 14.9 sec. @ 94 mph
Top Speed: 130 mph (electronically limited)
Mileage: 24 city / 31 highway
Base Price: $20,570
Competitors: Mazdaspeed 3, Honda Civic Si, Volkswagen GTI, Mini Cooper S