2009 Nissan Sentra SE-R

The 2009 Nissan Sentra SE-R sport compact sedan delivers 37 more horsepower than the Sentra 2.0 trims, thanks to its 2.5-liter, double-overhead-cam inline four-cylinder (I4) engine, which produces 177 hp and 172 lb-ft of torque. The engine pushes the SE-R from 0 to 60 in 7.4 seconds, but still manages decent fuel economy numbers of 24/30 mpg. A sport-tuned Xtronic CVT (continuously variable transmission) includes paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel, so drivers can take control of gear-shifting for a sportier driving experience. Vented front and rear brakes provide plenty of stopping power, aided by an antilock braking system and electronic brakeforce distribution, which makes adjustments to brake pressure in emergency situations to ensure optimal braking. Sport-tuned springs, ripple-control shock absorbers, and electric power-assisted steering also come standard. The SE-R rides on 17-inch wheels with all-season tires.

The sport-oriented enhancements continue outside, where the SE-R displays such features as a sport grille, dark-chrome bezel headlights, lower-body side sill extensions, dark-smoked bezel taillights, a chrome exhaust finisher, and a rear spoiler. Inside, the SE-R comes equipped with such standard features as front sport bucket seats, black sport seat cloth with red stitching, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, aluminum pedal pads, and sport metallic-tone accents. Air conditioning and cruise control also come standard. The six-speaker audio system includes a CD player, speed-sensitive volume, and an MP3 input jack. Owners can add an eight-speaker Rockford Fosgate audio system with a 6-CD changer and XM satellite radio as part of a Premium Audio package.

By R. Feeman